Boeing is set to make a significant impact on British Columbia’s aerospace industry, with a $61 million investment tied to Canada’s procurement of P-8A Poseidon aircraft. This move comes as part of the broader Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs) framework linked to the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project.
The Canadian government announced in November 2023 that it would purchase up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). This acquisition is expected to create over 3,000 jobs and inject approximately $358 million annually into the Canadian economy over the next decade.
“Our incoming fleet of up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft will provide our aviators with the tools that they need to protect our sovereignty – and at the same time, it is creating economic growth and good jobs for Canadians. As our government invests more in defence, we are ensuring that these investments deliver real value for the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian economy, and Canadian workers. I thank Boeing for its work to deliver this new fleet of aircraft to Canada – and I welcome its major investments in British Columbia’s aerospace sector,” expressed the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
Boeing’s investment in British Columbia specifically focuses on research and development, with $48 million directed toward enhancing capabilities at its Vancouver facility. This funding aims to keep Canada at the cutting edge of aerospace technology, particularly in data analytics and program management for aircraft sustainability. The advanced tools developed at Boeing Vancouver will leverage complex modeling and machine learning to improve aircraft performance and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
“The aerospace sector is a cornerstone of our economy and supports well-paid jobs for Canadian workers. Major defence procurement projects allow us to not only strengthen the operational capabilities of our armed forces, but also ensure that companies in the Canadian supply chain can get significant economic benefits. This multi-million dollar investment further consolidates our aerospace industry’s position as a global leader of innovation and technology, and supports Canadian businesses, including Indigenous-owned businesses,” explained the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.
An additional $13 million will be invested in COTA Aviation, an Indigenous-owned company based in Parksville, B.C. This initiative will establish a hands-on aerospace manufacturing training facility, aiming to increase Indigenous participation in the aerospace and defense sectors. The program will train 10 workers annually, equipping them with the skills needed to operate advanced manufacturing equipment, including robotic automation. COTA will also assist Indigenous trainees in securing employment upon completion of the program, further contributing to job creation and skill development within the province.
“Boeing’s significant investments in British Columbia under the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy underscore our government’s commitment to advancing Canadian innovation and economic prosperity. By supporting COTA Aviation’s Indigenous skills training and bolstering Boeing Vancouver’s capabilities in data analytics, Boeing is enhancing aerospace capabilities while fostering sustainable growth and creating high-value career opportunities. Through our ITB Policy, we are dedicated to ensuring Canada remains a global leader in aerospace excellence,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
“Headquartered in Richmond’s technology and innovation hub, Boeing Vancouver has greatly contributed to our economy and provided well-paying jobs to workers and families in British Columbia. The investments announced today by Boeing will further grow our regional economy and support generational work across our community. I am encouraged by Boeing’s continued commitment to tech advancements in ensuring that Richmond remains a hub of innovation,” conveyed Parm Bains, Member of Parliament for Steveston—Richmond East.
National Defence Minister Bill Blair highlighted these investments as proof of how Canada’s defense spending can fuel economic growth and skill development. The new P-8A Poseidon fleet will replace the aging CP-140 Aurora, providing Canada with a modern, multi-mission platform capable of maritime and overland surveillance. This procurement ensures that Canada can continue to meet its national security needs while remaining interoperable with allies and key partners.
“This collaboration is a testament to Canada’s strength in the aviation industry and reflects Boeing’s unwavering commitment to the country where we have consistently driven innovation for over a century. It’s wonderful to forge greater partnerships and growth in the province of British Columbia where our journey began back in 1919 symbolizing our enduring dedication to shaping the future of aerospace in Canada,” said Al Meinzinger, President of Boeing Canada.