Volatus Aerospace has announced the selection of its Condor XL Remotely Piloted helicopter for the next-generation aerial seeding operations by Ki Reforestation (“Ki”). The Company will operate the platform for Ki, marking a significant milestone in the automation of reforestation across Canada’s fire-impacted landscapes. Ki Reforestation is a Toronto-based environmental innovation company specializing in wildfire recovery and large-scale reforestation.

In 2023 and 2024, more than 18 million hectares of Canadian forest burned, an area larger than many provinces. Natural regeneration can no longer keep pace, creating a widening gap that threatens biodiversity, water security, and climate resilience. Volatus and Ki are addressing this challenge with the Condor XL, a heavy-lift Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) capable of carrying up to 180 kg over 200 km.

“Climate change is accelerating the frequency and severity of wildfires, destroying forest ecosystems at a scale that cannot be reversed by traditional planting alone,” said Trevor Grant, CEO of Ki Reforestation. “Aerial seeding with the Condor XL allows us to reforest thousands of hectares quickly and cost-effectively, using precision-dispersed seedpods engineered to thrive in post-burn soils.”

Volatus has also been granted Special Flight Operating Approval to fly the Condor XL at its Ontario test range. These trials will validate the dispersal system being developed by Volatus in combination with KI’s proprietary biodegradable seedpods. Preliminary trials, including flights with piloted helicopters, have already demonstrated strong germination rates and resilience to environmental stressors.

“Partnering with Ki Reforestation aligns perfectly with our mission to apply aerospace innovation to global sustainability challenges,” said Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace. “The Condor XL has the payload, range, and precision needed to scale reforestation efforts and restore ecosystems more efficiently than any other method available today.”

Flight testing and validation are expected in Q4 2025, with initial commercial seeding operations planned for 2026. The effort supports Canada’s 2 billion Trees Program and aligns with international climate goals, including COP30. Beyond Canada, Volatus and Ki see significant global demand for rapid reforestation solutions. Carbon credit values add another long-term opportunity, with one hectare of reforested land estimated to sequester 5–10 tonnes of CO₂ annually, potentially US$75–$200 per hectare per year at current voluntary market prices.