Why Planes Get Water Cannon Salutes:

Planes are welcomed with water cannons — called a water salute — as a ceremonial honor.
It’s a tradition in aviation for special occasions, like:

• A new airline or new flight route arriving at an airport

• A retiring pilot's final flight

• A military aircraft returning home

• VIPs or special guests arriving

• An airline's final flight before shutting down

Two fire trucks line up on either side of the taxiway and spray high arcs of water over the plane, creating a sort of "water arch" for it to pass under.
It’s a gesture of respect, celebration, and good wishes — almost like a ceremonial "standing ovation," but with water.

Notable Water Cannon Salutes

1. Final Flight of the Concorde (2003)

On May 31, 2003, the last Air France Concorde departed from New York's JFK Airport. To mark this historic occasion, three fire trucks sprayed an arc of red, white, and blue water in front of the aircraft as it taxied for departure—a tribute to both the supersonic era and the French flag. 

2. Retirement of a United Airlines Pilot

A United Airlines Boeing 777 received a water cannon salute at Washington Dulles Airport to honor a retiring pilot. Unfortunately, due to a mishap, foam was sprayed instead of water, leading to engine damage and the aircraft being taken out of service for inspection. ​Flight Global+1Simple Flying+1

3. Honoring a Fallen Flight Attendant (2025)

In a poignant tribute, American Airlines honored flight attendant Ian Epstein, who tragically passed away in a crash, with a water cannon salute as his body was transported from Washington, D.C., to Charlotte, North Carolina. The gesture was captured and shared widely, highlighting the emotional impact of such ceremonies. 

4. Team India's T20 World Cup Victory (2024)

Upon returning to Mumbai after winning the T20 World Cup, the Indian cricket team was greeted with a celebratory water cannon salute at the airport. This gesture marked the nation's pride and joy in their team's achievement. ​

5. Honor Flights for Veterans

Flights carrying veterans to Washington, D.C., as part of the Honor Flight Network often receive water cannon salutes upon arrival. These salutes serve as a mark of respect and gratitude for the veterans' service and sacrifice.

When Water Salutes Go Awry

While symbolic, water cannon salutes require precise execution. For instance, in 2015, a Virgin Atlantic Airbus A330 had its engines clogged when firefighters accidentally used foam instead of water, leading to flight cancellations and extensive inspections.

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here