Photo: Airbus Helicopters / Dianne Bond
Airbus Helicopters has secured a contract with SkyAlyne to deliver 19 H135 helicopters for training Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilots as part of Canada's Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Programme. This partnership marks Airbus's entry into Canada's military helicopter sector.
The H135 helicopters will be produced at Airbus Helicopters' facility in Fort Erie, Ontario, with customisations using Canadian-developed technology. These modifications include enhancements to avionics and communications systems tailored for the RCAF’s requirements. Deliveries are anticipated to begin in early 2026.
“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 SkyAlyne and the FAcT program as it solidifies a core element of the program schedule,” commented Kevin Lemke, SkyAlyne’s senior executive. “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.”
“Entering into this partnership with SkyAlyne and the Department of National Defence is a historic moment for Airbus Helicopters in Canada. We thank the Royal Canadian Air Force for placing their trust in Airbus and the H135, joining 12 other militaries around the world that employ the twin-engine H135 to train future aviators,” said Dwayne Charette, President of Airbus Helicopters in Canada. “This contract marks Airbus Helicopters’ successful entry into the Canadian military market. As we celebrate 40 years of serving Canadian customers locally, we are honoured to contribute to the safety of Canadians for many years to come.”
The agreement includes not only aircraft acquisition but also a support and services package, the development of a Ground-Based Training Solution, and engineering support. With a long track record in military training roles, the H135 is used by several allied forces, including those in the UK and Australia, for training in fundamental and advanced piloting skills. Its twin-engine capability and modern avionics help RCAF pilots transition to more complex aircraft.
Airbus Helicopters, which has been active in Canada since 1984, has delivered nearly 600 helicopters in the country, with the Canadian fleet logging over 275,000 flight hours in 2023. The Fort Erie site is also recognised as a centre for producing key helicopter components for global distribution.
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