Iconic JRM Philippine Mars Officially Retires

Philippine Mars Water Bomber Retires to Arizona Museum

After nearly 50 years of firefighting in British Columbia, the legendary Philippine Mars water bomber has completed its final journey, retiring at the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona.

The massive aircraft, one of only six built for the U.S. Navy in the 1940s, took off from Sproat Lake, B.C., on Sunday, made a farewell pass over Vancouver Island, and landed in Arizona on Monday after a stop in San Francisco.

From Warplane to Firefighting Icon

Originally designed as a military transport, the Philippine Mars was repurposed in the 1950s to fight wildfires, capable of carrying 27,000 liters of water. It became a beloved spectacle at events like the Abbotsford Air Show, but as firefighting technology advanced, its role diminished.

Coulson Aviation, which owned the last two remaining Martin Mars planes, retired the Hawaii Mars last summer. Now, the Philippine Mars has followed suit.

A Challenging Final Flight

Mechanical issues delayed the aircraft’s departure for months, even requiring an emergency landing in December. Crews ultimately used engines from the Hawaii Mars to ensure a safe flight.

“It’s the end of the road,” said pilot Peter Killan. “I hate to take it away, but it’s going to a good place.”

Wayne Coulson, CEO of Coulson Aviation, confirmed the aircraft will be dismantled and trucked to its new home. “We’re pleased to find a place where it can live forever,” he said.

The Philippine Mars will be on display at the Pima Air and Space Museum within weeks, preserving its legacy for future generations.