The Government of Canada has awarded a landmark contract for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program to SkyAlyne. This transformative initiative, set to last 25 years with a value of $11.2 billion, reimagines training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), consolidating three aircrew training operations under SkyAlyne and Canada’s joint management. SkyAlyne, a partnership between Canadian aerospace leaders CAE and KF Aerospace, was chosen to be the FAcT contractor after a rigorous selection process. CAE and KF Aerospace – the current incumbents of legacy RCAF pilot training programs in Canada – joined to form SkyAlyne to provide a made-in-Canada solution for the FAcT Program. This program is a significant step forward to prepare Canadian Military Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators for tomorrow’s challenges. Under the FAcT Program, SkyAlyne – in collaboration with the RCAF – will design, develop, and deliver a comprehensive training and support system, including live flying, simulation, ground school training, and a suite of in-service support functions.
France Hébert, President of SkyAlyne and Vice President of Defense & Security at CAE Canada, said: “It is a privilege to be entrusted by Canada to lead the FAcT Program, a role that speaks volumes about our team’s relentless effort and expertise. We’re grateful to have the opportunity to deliver top-tier training solutions that align with the dynamic needs of the Canadian Armed Forces. This is a milestone moment for us and all the companies on the SkyAlyne Team, highlighting our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.”
Tracy Medve, Chair of the SkyAlyne Board and President & CEO of KF Aerospace, said: “The vision for FAcT represents a unified effort from Canada’s finest minds and organizations. We’re geared up to bring this vision to life with our truly Canadian expertise, working closely with Canada and the RCAF to usher in a new era of aircrew training. Our focus is beyond meeting today’s standards but shaping the future of aircrew readiness, creating new jobs and opportunities in communities across Canada.”
Fittingly coinciding with the RCAF’s 100th anniversary, the FAcT Program is the next symbol of Canada’s proud history of excellence in military aircrew training. Centrally managed from Ottawa, the FAcT Program will revamp and expand upon training services currently provided by KF Aerospace and CAE, with operations set to continue at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Southport (Portage la Prairie) and 17 Wing Winnipeg. The program includes the establishment of a complete training enterprise at all three operating locations, helping ensure the RCAF maintains the highest standards of excellence and innovation. This contract also aligns with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and Value Proposition, requiring investments in Canada equal to the contract value. SkyAlyne is committed to investing in Canadian industry and the inclusion of an extensive Indigenous Participation Plan.
To provide the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) with modern, state-of-the-art aircrew training, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced the award of a 25-year contract valued at $11.2 billion (including taxes) to SkyAlyne Canada Limited Partnership for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program. Through this contract, Canada will acquire over 70 training aircraft in total, split into five fleets. These include fleets of: Grob G120TP, Pilatus PC-21, Beechcraft King Air 260, Airbus Helicopters H-135, and De Havilland Dash 8-400 equipped with a mission training system in the cabin. The contract will also include classroom instruction, simulator and flight training, as well as numerous on-site support activities for prospective RCAF Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators. Training under this new contract will continue to take place at key RCAF Wings in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and is expected to begin in spring 2029.
