On November 4, 2024, in a major step for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program, SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace have finalized an agreement with Airbus Helicopters in Canada to acquire 19 advanced H135 helicopters. This acquisition, facilitated by KF Aerospace on behalf of SkyAlyne, marks a key milestone for the RCAF’s modernization efforts in aircrew training.
“SkyAlyne is excited at the successful conclusion of negotiations between our partners at KF Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters in Canada, and we extend our gratitude to everyone involved. Securing the Airbus H135 fleet for the RCAF is an important milestone for the FAcT program as it solidifies a core element of the program schedule. The selection of the state-of-the-art H135 from Airbus Helicopters contributes meaningfully to the Canadian economy and SkyAlyne is proud to be building a world-leading Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF while supporting Canadian jobs,” expressed Kevin Lemke, General Manager, SkyAlyne.
Under the contract, Airbus will begin delivering these new aircraft in mid-2026, securing production slots to ensure timely integration into the FAcT program. The helicopters will be completed and assembled at Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Fort Erie, Ontario, underscoring the company’s commitment to Canadian manufacturing and local job creation. Through this initiative, Airbus will continue its contributions to Canada’s economy and reinforce its global supply chain.
“From the outset, we recognized the pivotal role that selecting the right aircraft would play in ensuring the long-term success of the FAcT program. With the Airbus H135, we’re confident in a choice that meets both the RCAF’s stringent training requirements for rotary-wing pilot training and our commitment to operational excellence. Partnering with Airbus Helicopters in Canada allows us not only to deliver a state-of-the-art training solution but also to bolster Canadian industry with local manufacturing and assembly. We look forward to receiving the H135s and advancing the FAcT program’s mission to shape the future of Canadian military aviation training,” explained Tracy Medve, Board Chair, SkyAlyne President & CEO, KF Aerospace.
The H135 is celebrated globally as a versatile and durable training helicopter. Equipped with twin engines, advanced avionics, and a range of configuration options, the H135 has proven to be a reliable training platform for military clients worldwide, including Australia and the United Kingdom. Designed for efficient and cost-effective operations, the H135 is perfectly suited for the RCAF’s demanding training requirements, offering the performance and flexibility needed for long-term service within the FAcT program.
“We are deeply honoured by SkyAlyne and the Royal Canadian Air Force’s trust in selecting the H135 as the rotary-wing training platform for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. These aircraft will be the first Airbus helicopters to join the Canadian military fleet, which is a milestone achievement that reinforces our deep commitment to providing helicopters that save lives and protect citizens. This order is an important moment in our 40-year legacy of supporting Canadian customers with reliable, mission-ready aircraft that protect and serve Canada,” said Dwayne Charette, President Airbus Helicopters in Canada.
Awarded to SkyAlyne in spring 2024, the FAcT program is undergoing a five-year transition phase that will consolidate the RCAF’s three existing training initiatives into a single, streamlined program. Managed from SkyAlyne’s Ottawa headquarters, FAcT operates across three key bases in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan; Southport, Manitoba; and Winnipeg, Manitoba. This 25-year contract positions SkyAlyne as the exclusive provider for RCAF pilot and aircrew training, which will create a unified and enhanced learning environment for Canadian aircrew.
Once operational, Canada’s H135 fleet will be co-managed with the RCAF and housed at 15 Wing’s 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School at Southport Aerospace Centre in Manitoba. This modern fleet will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Canadian aircrew, supporting RCAF’s mission for decades to come.
