Communication

Strong media coverage for Kepplair Evolution and the KEPPLAIR 72 program

2026-06-30

The announcement of the upcoming arrival of the first KEPPLAIR 72 “Forest Keeper” prototype has generated significant media interest in France and internationally, confirming the growing momentum behind the program developed by Kepplair Evolution. Since the publication of this press release in late May 2026, the project has received more than 36 media mentions, including 20 in specialized international media, as well as several interviews and a television report. This coverage reflects the growing attention being paid to innovative aerial firefighting solutions, against a backdrop of increasing risks linked to climate change. Growing international visibility The KEPPLAIR 72 program has been featured by numerous leading aerospace and business media outlets across Europe, North America, South America and Asia. Recognized publications such as Aviation Week, AeroTime, AeroTelegraph, Airliners.de and Aero News Network have highlighted the project’s progress, the imminent arrival of the first prototype aircraft, and the prospects for certification and commercialization from 2027. This international visibility confirms market interest in a new generation of aerial firefighting aircraft capable of rapidly addressing the growing needs of operators and public authorities. Recognition in leading French media In France, several national media outlets specializing in aerospace, industry and business have published articles about the KEPPLAIR 72 program. These include Air & Cosmos, La Tribune, L’Usine Nouvelle, AEF Info, ActuAero and Avions Légendaires. The media have particularly highlighted the innovative nature of the project, its accelerated development timeline, and its positioning as a new-generation French solution designed to strengthen wildfire-fighting capabilities. Regional media have also widely covered the news, highlighting Kepplair Evolution’s roots in Toulouse and its role in developing an innovative aerospace industry in the Occitanie region. A project recognized for its technological and industrial strengths The various articles published regularly highlight the program’s key strengths: - Rapid market entry through the conversion of a proven ATR 72 platform; - A multi-role aircraft capable of carrying out firefighting, cargo transport and medical evacuation missions; - An innovative water-drop system developed with leading industrial and scientific partners; - Significant reductions in acquisition, operating and maintenance costs; - A contribution to French and European industrial sovereignty in a strategic sector. Several media outlets now describe Kepplair Evolution as one of France’s most advanced projects in the field of future aerial firefighting aircraft. Momentum continues to build This strong media exposure comes at a major stage in the program’s development: the arrival of the first test prototype and the preparation of the first water-drop tests, scheduled for the end of the year. As the project moves toward its certification phase, this recognition from both specialized and mainstream media is increasing Kepplair Evolution’s visibility among institutional, industrial and operational stakeholders in the sector. The KEPPLAIR 72 program is therefore continuing on its trajectory with a clear ambition: to deliver, from 2027, an innovative, sustainable and sovereign solution to address the growing challenges of aerial firefighting worldwide.