OTTAWA, Ontario — SkyAlyne and Canadian Helicopters Limited (CHL) have signed an agreement that will see CHL support the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program by delivering advanced rotary-wing flight training and sustaining the service’s CT-153 Juno helicopter fleet.
Under the subcontract, Canadian Helicopters will deliver the Advanced Flying Training – Rotary Wing (AFT-RW) component of the FAcT program from Southport, Manitoba. The company will also serve as the designated Aircraft Maintenance Organization (AMO) for the rotary-wing fleet, providing operation, maintenance and integrated sustainment of the CT-153 Juno (Airbus H135) helicopters throughout the life of the program.
In addition to fleet support, CHL will supply Qualified Flying Instructors (QFIs) and deliver advanced helicopter flight training for Royal Canadian Air Force student pilots as part of SkyAlyne’s integrated aircrew training system.
Kevin Lemke, General Manager of SkyAlyne said "CHL’s decades of expertise in rotary-wing aviation and operations make them a very valuable addition to the Future Aircrew Training program. Their knowledge, professionalism, and focus on safety will help strengthen SkyAlyne’s ability to deliver a modern and effective training solution for the Royal Canadian Air Force."
Canadian Helicopters operates one of the country’s largest commercial helicopter fleets and brings decades of experience supporting defence, public safety, natural resources and infrastructure operations. The company said its contribution will include specialized rotary-wing expertise, advanced training capabilities and long-term fleet sustainment.
Don Wall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Helicopters Limited said "Since inception, Canadian Helicopters has always championed quintessential Canadian projects and infrastructure. As a long-standing supporter of RCAF, the SkyAlyne partnership will ensure that relationship continues for at least 25 more years. From our roots as the first commercial helicopter operator in Canada, to supporting the complexities of sovereignty and domestic resilience, our commitment to the FAcT program solidifies our enduring support of our country. Challenging times demand strong teams, and we believe SkyAlyne is that team."
The FAcT program is designed to modernize aircrew training for the Royal Canadian Air Force by integrating pilot and aircrew instruction into a single long-term enterprise. Managed from SkyAlyne’s headquarters in Ottawa, the program’s operations are centered at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Southport, Manitoba, and Winnipeg, Manitoba.
About SkyAlyne: SkyAlyne is the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider. Formed in 2018 as a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, the company delivers integrated military pilot and aircrew training using modern aircraft, simulation and instructional systems.
About Canadian Helicopters Limited: Founded in 1947, Canadian Helicopters Limited is Canada’s largest helicopter transportation services provider. Operating more than 100 helicopters from 25 locations across the country, the company supports defence, emergency medical services, search and rescue, utilities, construction, mining and other government and commercial customers.