January 8, 2026—Kelowna—KF Aerospace is proud to announce the successful certification of the world’s first Boeing 737-800 Combi conversion, marking a major advancement in global aircraft modification capability. Transport Canada has officially approved the modification with the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC #SA25-72), clearing the way for the aircraft to enter service.
The newly certified 737-800 Combi integrates a unique multi-role configuration, featuring a forward cargo compartment with five pallet positions and a 90-passenger cabin in the aft section. This innovative layout makes it the first B737-800 aircraft of its kind anywhere in the world, with no comparable Combi currently in operation in the U.S., Europe, or other international markets. The first aircraft was completed and delivered to Air Inuit in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet modernization.
The 737-800 Combi STC further expands the aircraft’s versatility, building on the proven utility and reliability of the AEI 737-800SF large cargo door. Its certification marks another milestone in the successful collaboration between KF and AEI.
“The achievement of the 737-800 Combi underscores the power of a true partnership that KF and AEI have enjoyed over the course of three decades,” says Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI. “By combining AEI’s cargo door conversion expertise with KF’s engineering and operational strengths, we are able to deliver a world-first Combi that unlocks new possibilities for operators worldwide.”
KF’s engineering team played a key role in the project, designing and implementing extensive aircraft-wide structural modifications.
Completion of the program required a substantial redesign of the aircraft’s interior and systems to meet stringent certification requirements. KF Aerospace engineered and integrated fire detection, halon-based fire suppression, and advanced smoke-containment systems for the forward cargo section, while also modifying existing freighter-specific detection systems to meet Combi-specific criteria. The effort resulted in the creation of hundreds of new parts and custom-engineered solutions to make this technically complex modification program possible.
The project is a testament to the advanced capabilities of KF’s in-house engineering department. KF’s manufacturing, installation, and test teams also played critical roles throughout the conversion.
“This project reflects the ingenuity, dedication, and deep technical expertise of our entire team,” says Gregg Evjen, President of KF Aerospace. “KF is proud to deliver a world-first solution that expands what’s possible in aircraft conversion and supports our customers’ complex operational needs.”
The newly certified 737-800 Combi directly meets the customer’s requirement for a large-capacity mixed-use aircraft, seamlessly accommodating both cargo and passengers. More broadly, the project underscores KF Aerospace’s ability to overcome the regulatory and engineering challenges that have historically limited Combi aircraft development worldwide.
This milestone highlights KF Aerospace’s leadership in innovative conversions, advanced engineering, and custom STC development, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering industry-defining solutions through close collaboration between engineering, certification, production teams, and key partners.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
For over 55 years, KF Aerospace has delivered innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
January 8, 2026—Kelowna—KF Aerospace is proud to announce the successful certification of the world’s first Boeing 737-800 Combi conversion, marking a major advancement in global aircraft modification capability. Transport Canada has officially approved the modification with the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC #SA25-72), clearing the way for the aircraft to enter service.
The newly certified 737-800 Combi integrates a unique multi-role configuration, featuring a forward cargo compartment with five pallet positions and a 90-passenger cabin in the aft section. This innovative layout makes it the first B737-800 aircraft of its kind anywhere in the world, with no comparable Combi currently in operation in the U.S., Europe, or other international markets. The first aircraft was completed and delivered to Air Inuit in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet modernization.
The 737-800 Combi STC further expands the aircraft’s versatility, building on the proven utility and reliability of the AEI 737-800SF large cargo door. Its certification marks another milestone in the successful collaboration between KF and AEI.
“The achievement of the 737-800 Combi underscores the power of a true partnership that KF and AEI have enjoyed over the course of three decades,” says Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI. “By combining AEI’s cargo door conversion expertise with KF’s engineering and operational strengths, we are able to deliver a world-first Combi that unlocks new possibilities for operators worldwide.”
KF’s engineering team played a key role in the project, designing and implementing extensive aircraft-wide structural modifications.
Completion of the program required a substantial redesign of the aircraft’s interior and systems to meet stringent certification requirements. KF Aerospace engineered and integrated fire detection, halon-based fire suppression, and advanced smoke-containment systems for the forward cargo section, while also modifying existing freighter-specific detection systems to meet Combi-specific criteria. The effort resulted in the creation of hundreds of new parts and custom-engineered solutions to make this technically complex modification program possible.
The project is a testament to the advanced capabilities of KF’s in-house engineering department. KF’s manufacturing, installation, and test teams also played critical roles throughout the conversion.
“This project reflects the ingenuity, dedication, and deep technical expertise of our entire team,” says Gregg Evjen, President of KF Aerospace. “KF is proud to deliver a world-first solution that expands what’s possible in aircraft conversion and supports our customers’ complex operational needs.”
The newly certified 737-800 Combi directly meets the customer’s requirement for a large-capacity mixed-use aircraft, seamlessly accommodating both cargo and passengers. More broadly, the project underscores KF Aerospace’s ability to overcome the regulatory and engineering challenges that have historically limited Combi aircraft development worldwide.
This milestone highlights KF Aerospace’s leadership in innovative conversions, advanced engineering, and custom STC development, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering industry-defining solutions through close collaboration between engineering, certification, production teams, and key partners.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
For over 55 years, KF Aerospace has delivered innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
Yesterday, KF Aerospace was proud to host Canada’s first two CT-102B Astra II (Grob G 120TP-A) aircraft at its Southport base for a quick fueling stop.
Image Credit: Andrew Matthews
Following a ‘Welcome to Canada’ ceremony in Gatineau on September 11th, the aircraft are now en route to their future home at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. The aircraft will subsequently be delivered to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
“The arrival of the CT-102B Astra II in Canada represents a significant milestone in the advancement of the Future Aircrew Training Program,” said Peter Fedak, KF’s Vice President of Defence Programs. “We are proud to contribute to the operational readiness of the Royal Canadian Air Force through our ongoing role in FAcT as part of Team SkyAlyne.”
The CT-102B Astra II is a modern and capable platform for Basic Flying Training within the FAcT program. Earlier this week, the aircraft were featured on public static display at the Aero Gatineau-Ottawa airshow from September 12th –14th, where Canadians were invited to get a first look at the new fleet.
KF Aerospace extends our congratulations to all FAcT partners and the RCAF on this exciting achievement. We are honoured to contribute to Canada’s future in military aircrew training and to help mark this important step forward for the program.
Image Credit: Andrew MatthewsImage Credit: Andrew Matthews
The new CT-102B Astra II aircraft will replace the current Grob G120A fleet.
To learn more about the Future Aircrew Training Program, visit skyalyne.ca.
Want to help us shape the future of RCAF pilot training? We’re currently hiring Aircraft Fleet Engineers! Learn more and apply now.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
Celebrating 55 years, KF Aerospace delivers innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
September 10, 2025—Kelowna— KF Aerospace is proud to announce the acquisition of a third ATR 72-500 (MSN 685) from passenger and cargo airline FlyCAA.
The acquisition of this aircraft will satisfy the requirements of KF’s recently renewed 10-year contract to manage Purolator’s BC Feeder Network (BCFN). The contract calls for a renewed fleet of three cargo aircraft – two containerized and one bulk loaded— to ensure efficient and reliable cargo service across the region for years to come. The ATR 72-500F aircraft was selected by KF to replace the current Convair 580 fleet, for which KF holds the type certificate.
Originally operated as a passenger aircraft, the newly acquired airframe was purchased during a maintenance visit to an MRO facility in Toulouse, France and arrived at KF’s YLW facility late last month.
The aircraft is scheduled to undergo a Large Cargo Door (LCD) conversion in-house at KF’s YLW facility this fall before entering service for the BCFN later this year. The work will include installation of several modifications and Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs), such as ADS-B and dual Flight Management System (FMS) upgrades, to align with fleet standards and ensure operational consistency.
The recently acquired ATR 72-500F will be painted with KF and Purolator’s livery at KF’s YLW base.
“The acquisition of this third aircraft represents a continued investment in the modernization of our air cargo fleet,” says Tracy Medve, CEO of KF Capital Ltd.. “As part of our fleet upgrade strategy for our long standing partnership with Purolator, this aircraft further supports our commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and reliable service for Purolator’s BC Feeder Network.”
KF has already completed a full cargo door conversion on its first ATR 72-500F for the program which completed its first revenue flight last month.
A second aircraft, acquired from ACIA Aero Leasing, was already configured with bulk loading capability and will be brought into service this fall.
All three ATRs will be fully operational and in service by 2026.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
Celebrating 55 years, KF Aerospace delivers innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
Kelowna’s largest private sector employer offers a peek inside its headquarters in Kelowna, B.C.
KELOWNA—August 25, 2025 — KF Aerospace, Kelowna’s largest private employer, is inviting the community for a behind-the-scenes look at its operations during a Career Fair and Open House on Wednesday, September 24 at its YLW (Kelowna) headquarters.
The event, open to the public from 3:00 to 6:30 pm, will offer guided facility tours, information booths and the chance to meet KF staff from across its diverse operations—including skilled trades, aerospace engineering, IT, customer service, and administration.
“This year marks our 55th anniversary at KF Aerospace,” says Anne Downie, Human Resources Director. “Our Kelowna base spans 400,000 square feet and is home to a vibrant employee community with 800 staff in all stages of their careers, across a variety of disciplines.”
KF is proud to offer its staff competitive wages, a comprehensive employee benefits package with extended medical and dental coverage, paid time-off, career advancement, and an annual profit-sharing program. KF also offers a wellness and personal spending account, an on-site café, and dedicated spaces for KF families at the YLW Child Care facility.
“If you are curious about KF Aerospace, this is an excellent opportunity to peek inside our operations, meet our people and connect with our recruitment team,” says Downie.
Entry-level opportunities like aircraft painting, hangar support and materials coordination offer candidates on-the-job training with career progression.
Okanagan College will be available to introduce prospective students to its Aircraft Maintenance programs, including Mechanical and Structures training.
Date: Wednesday, September 24 Time: 3:00 – 6:30 p.m. Location: KF Aerospace West Hangar, 5650 Aerospace Drive, Kelowna, BC Parking: Free on-site parking Extras: Tours and prize draw
No registration required.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about the craft.
Celebrating 55 years, KF Aerospace delivers innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne. KF Aerospace is Kelowna’s largest private sector employer with 800 staff in the Okanagan, and over 1,200 staff across Canada.
Tracy Medve continues as CEO of KF Capital Ltd. as a result of the company’s planned leadership succession
August 7, 2025 —KELOWNA— KF Aerospace is pleased to announce the appointment of Gregg Evjen as President of KF Aerospace, effective September 1, 2025.
This appointment is part of KF’s long-term succession planning and establishes a leadership structure that pairs Gregg’s experienced operational oversight with continued strategic guidance at the group level. Tracy Medve, KF’s current President and CEO, will continue as Chief Executive Officer of KF Capital Ltd., the umbrella organization overseeing KF Aerospace and the company’s other business divisions and strategic initiatives.
Gregg has a 35-year career with KF Aerospace, joining as a Junior Engineer in 1989 after completing his studies in Aeronautical Engineering at SAIT. He has played a central role in the company’s evolution—leading hundreds of engineering projects and regulatory approvals, including the Convair CV5800 stretch program, multiple freighter conversions, and modification programs across nearly every major aircraft type in KF’s operations.
“Gregg’s decades of operational expertise, proven leadership, and commitment to KF make him exceptionally well-suited to lead KF Aerospace into the future,” said Tracy Medve, CEO of KF Capital Ltd.
Gregg was instrumental in growing KF’s Engineering department into one of Canada’s leading Transport Canada Design Approval Organizations (DAO) and achieving Recognized Design Approval Organization (RDAO) status with the Department of National Defence (DND). He currently holds dual delegations as a Transport Canada Design Approval Delegate and a DND Senior Design Engineer, and he is widely respected in the Canadian aviation industry for his technical expertise and regulatory leadership.
He has held progressively senior roles at KF, including Manager and Director of Engineering, Vice President of Maintenance & Engineering, and Chief Operating Officer (COO) from 2021 to 2025. A long-time member of KF’s Executive Team, Gregg brings both continuity and vision to the company’s next chapter of growth.
Gregg currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) as Past Chair and is a recipient of ATAC’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades of leadership and contributions to Canadian aviation.
About Gregg Evjen
Gregg Evjen was appointed President of KF Aerospace in 2025, following a long and distinguished career with the company spanning more than 35 years.
After completing his studies in Aeronautical Engineering at SAIT, Gregg joined KF Aerospace in 1989 as a Junior Engineer. Over the decades, he has played a central role in the company’s evolution—leading hundreds of engineering projects and regulatory approvals, including the Convair CV5800 stretch program, multiple freighter conversions, and modification programs across nearly every major aircraft type in Canada.
Gregg was instrumental in growing KF’s Engineering department into one of Canada’s leading Transport Canada Design Approval Organizations (DAO), while also earning Recognized Design Approval Organization (RDAO) status with the Department of National Defence (DND). He currently holds dual delegations as a Transport Canada Design Approval Delegate and a DND Senior Design Engineer and remains highly regarded within Transport Canada Civil Aviation for his technical expertise and regulatory leadership.
With over three decades of design and certification experience in both domestic and international jurisdictions, Gregg has developed deep knowledge of civil and military regulations (TC/FAA/EASA), industry standards, and best practices. He has also built an extensive network across the Canadian and global aerospace sectors.
Gregg has held progressively senior roles at KF, including Manager and Director of Engineering, Vice President of Maintenance & Engineering, and most recently, Chief Operating Officer (COO) from 2021 to 2025. In these roles, he provided oversight across core operational areas such as Engineering, Maintenance, Flight Operations, Business Development, Manufacturing and Aircraft Leasing. His contributions have helped shape KF’s customer strategy, diversified work portfolio, and sustained operational excellence.
As President, Gregg continues to lead with a strong focus on innovation, operational integrity, and long-term stability for the organization. A long-time member of KF’s Executive Team, he brings both continuity and vision to the company’s next chapter of growth.
Gregg currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) as Past Chair and is a recipient of ATAC’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades of leadership and contributions to Canadian aviation.
About Tracy Medve
Since she began her career in aviation in 1985, Tracy Medve has held various senior airline management positions, including at Norcanair, Time Air, Canadian Partner and Canadian Regional Airlines. Tracy was the co-founder of C.T. AeroProjects, a Calgary- based consultancy focused on air transport resource management. There, she worked with a wide range of public and private aviation clients worldwide. From 2007 to 2012, she was the President of Canadian North Airlines.
In 2013, Tracy was appointed President of KF Aerospace. In 2021 she became President and CEO of KF Capital Ltd (the parent company of the KF Group of Companies). As of 2025, she retains the role of CEO of KF Capital Ltd., overseeing the broader group of KF businesses and divisions under the KF Capital umbrella.In 2013, Tracy was appointed President of KF Aerospace. In 2021 she became President and CEO of KF Capital Ltd (the parent company of the KF Group of Companies). As of 2025, she retains the role of CEO of KF Capital Ltd., overseeing the broader group of KF businesses and divisions under the KF Capital umbrella.In 2013, Tracy was appointed President of KF Aerospace. In 2021 she became President and CEO of KF Capital Ltd (the parent company of the KF Group of Companies). As of 2025, she retains the role of CEO of KF Capital Ltd., overseeing the broader group of KF businesses and divisions under the KF Capital umbrella.In 2013, Tracy was appointed President of KF Aerospace. In 2021 she became President and CEO of KF Capital Ltd (the parent company of the KF Group of Companies). As of 2025, she retains the role of CEO of KF Capital Ltd., overseeing the broader group of KF businesses and divisions under the KF Capital umbrella.
Tracy is the Past Chair of the Air Transportation Association of Canada (ATAC) and the first woman in Canada to be inducted as an Honorary Life Member. She previously sat as a Director of the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) and was a member of the University of British Columbia, Okanagan External Advisory Board. Since 2003 she has served as a part-time member of the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada (TATC). Tracy is the past Chair of the Fortis BC Board of Directors and the current Board Chair of SkyAlyne – a partnership with CAE, Inc. managing Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
Tracy is a lawyer by training (University of Saskatchewan, 1982) and a graduate of the John Molson School of Business Global Aviation MBA program at Concordia University (2009). She is the 2007 recipient of the John Molson School of Business MBA Scholarship. She was inducted as a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma honour society in 2009. In 2022 she was the recipient of the James C. Floyd award for her contribution to aviation. In 2025, Tracy was inducted into the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame.
Tracy also served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves as a Signals Officer from 1975 to 1981. She has two sons and enjoys golfing, cycling and learning to play the piano in her spare time.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
Celebrating 55 years, KF Aerospace delivers innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
On July 29th, KF’s first ATR 72-500F completed its very first revenue flight for Purolator’s BC Feeder Network. We were proud to welcome the ATR back to Kelowna and celebrate this major milestone in KF’s history.
This inaugural flight marks the first of three ATR 72-500F aircraft entering service as part of a major fleet upgrade under our renewed BC Feeder Network contract. We’re proud to strengthen our partnership with Purolator and continue providing reliable air cargo services across British Columbia.
The successful deployment of the ATR 72-500F highlights our commitment to innovation and efficiency, kicking off a new era for KF’s air cargo division.
May 27, 2025
The ATR 72-500F debuts a custom Purolator livery painted at the KF Aerospace maintenance facility in Kelowna, B.C.
May 27, 2025—Kelowna—Following a successful test flight, KF Aerospace is pleased to announce the completion of its first ATR 72-500F for the Purolator BC Feeder Network, unveiling a tailored paint scheme showcasing the iconic Purolator logo. The new nose-to-tail livery was completed at KF’s maintenance facility at Kelowna International Airport (YLW), where the aircraft (MSN707) received a passenger to freighter conversion over the last year.
KF will operate the aircraft as part of its contract with Purolator to deliver critical goods to communities across British Columbia. It is the first of three ATR aircraft that will upgrade the BC Feeder Network fleet currently comprised of Convair CV580s. Offering improved fuel efficiency and greater flexibility in handling diverse cargo needs, the ATR 72-500 will ensure continued reliability in cargo transportation across the province.
The new paint scheme also features a KF logo on the fuselage below the tail, highlighting the company’s enduring alliance with Purolator. In 1976, KF founder Barry Lapointe personally piloted a high-priority cargo flight from Vancouver to Toronto at Purolator’s request. For nearly 50 years, KF has consistently supported Purolator’s cargo operations, supporting their entire Canadian network from 1994 to 2015, and supporting their BC Feeder network since 2015.
The new Purolator livery features KF’s logo.
“This delivery marks an exciting step forward in our relationship with Purolator and our dedication to the continued success of the BC Feeder Network,” says KF Vice President of Business Development, Bryan Akerstream. “We are proud to provide Purolator with a turnkey fleet solution made possible by the diverse capabilities of our teams—from aircraft acquisition to major modifications, in-house painting and flight operations.”
“The addition of the new ATR 72-500F aircraft will enhance Purolator’s air freight capabilities, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional service and meet the needs of our customers,” said Jason Dacosta, General Manager, Air Freight, Purolator. “With our strong commitment to environmental sustainability, we are pleased the ATR 72-500 will reduce emissions and lower our carbon footprint. We look forward to the positive impact this fleet upgrade will bring to our BC Feeder Network.”
The aircraft is expected to enter service in late June, following completion of Transport Canada approvals. The remaining two ATR 72-500s are scheduled for completion later this year at the KF YLW maintenance facility, with the second aircraft already on site following an acquisition from ACIA Aero Leasing in February 2025.
The first test flight of KF’s ATR 72-500F.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
Celebrating 55 years, KF Aerospace delivers innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Flair Airlines; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2024, KF was awarded with Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program as part of its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
When you think about elite next-generation pilot training, think about the Grob G 120TP-A.
KF Aerospace is proud to be Grob Aircraft SE’s exclusive North American dealer for sales, leasing, and service.
Here’s why the Grob G 120TP-A is our pick for unparalleled military flight training, Upset Prevention and Recovery Training, transition training, and civilian flight training:
Superior Training Environment
The Grob G 120TP-A boasts direct instructor visibility, allowing better monitoring of students’ control inputs, expressions, and physical responses.
The closer seating arrangement facilitates improved communication and helps build essential Crew Resouce Management skills for multi-crew environments.
Dual flight displays ensure constant situational awareness for both instructor and student, providing a high-quality training experience.
Advanced Flight Displays and High-Performance Handling
The jet-like control feel and glass cockpit of the Grob G 120TP-A provide a modern training environment aligned with transport-category aircraft.
Realistic turbine engine responses encourage proper energy management techniques that are critical in advanced aircraft, while state-of-the-art flight displays enable the integration of flight data monitoring and debriefing tools.
Trusted by the RCAF
Endorsed by the Royal Canadian Air Force and the German Air Force, and supported by KF Aerospace’s extensive operational expertise, the Grob G 120TP-A has a proven track record of reliability.
It’s an effective platform for bridging the gap between piston trainers and transport-category aircraft, making it the optimal choice for test pilot schools, Upset Recovery Training Programs, flight schools, and airline pilot training.
To learn more about the Grob G 120TP-A, visit our website.
February 18, 2025—Kelowna— KF Aerospace is proud to announce the acquisition of an ATR 72-500 Bulk Freighter (MSN736) from ACIA Aero Leasing (“ACIA”), a leading provider of regional aircraft leasing and lease management services based in Dublin, Ireland. The aircraft will be introduced into KF’s air cargo fleet as early as April 2025 as part of a renewed 10-year contract with Purolator for the BC Feeder Network.
The contract included renewed fleet of three cargo aircraft – two containerized and one bulk loader. KF had previously selected the ATR72-500F to replace the Convair 580s – for which the company is the type-certificate holder.
“Following the awarding of our new air cargo contract, we have committed to a quick turnaround time to implement the fleet renewal,” says Tracy Medve, President and CEO, KF Aerospace. “ACIA has provided a quality aircraft that meets our needs in a very short period of time. This latest transaction represents our first acquisition from ACIA, but our business partnership extends back over many years, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with ACIA.”
KF’s recently acquired ATR 72-500F
The acquisition from ACIA presented an excellent opportunity for KF Aerospace to acquire an aircraft already configured with bulk loading capability and will require minimal work to bring it into service.
“We welcome KF Aerospace as a new trading partner for ACIA Aero Leasing. The Canadian market continues to present multiple opportunities for the ATR platform across both passenger and cargo requirements and KF is a key player in this market. This sale to KF, the second ATR freighter delivered by ACIA to a Canadian operator in the last 6 months, reaffirms our view that the customer base will grow as more and more Canadian airlines recognise the winning attributes of the type for the unique environment, they operate in,” says Michael Mooney, Chief Executive Officer, ACIA.
KF Aerospace has already conducted a full cargo door conversion on its first ATR72-500F for the program at its main facility in Kelowna. A third aircraft will be sourced later this year.
About KF Aerospace
We’re all about THE CRAFT.
For 54 years, KF Aerospace has delivered innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEMs such as Boeing; major airlines such as WestJet, Sunwing, Air Canada, Lynden Air Cargo and Icelandair; and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger charter services and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. In 2023, KF was named the preferred bidder for the RCAF’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program in its partnership with CAE called SkyAlyne.
OTTAWA and KELOWNA, CANADA // JANUARY 21, 2025 –Today SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace are excited to announce the signing of a purchase contract with De Havilland Aircraft of Canada to acquire three Dash 8-400 aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
Team SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, will convert the aircraft to adapt the cabins to support training operations for Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES Op) and Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSO).
The made-in-Canada Dash 8 aircraft is a proven, reliable, cost-effective twin-engine turboprop platform to support RCAF ACSO and AES Op training. The previous generation Dash 8-100 (CT-142), nicknamed “Gonzo” for its distinctive blue nose housing its radar, has been in use by the RCAF for more than 30 years. The Dash 8-400s being acquired by SkyAlyne feature higher performance, updated avionics, and larger cabins to facilitate SkyAlyne’s advanced airborne simulation training systems.
Bringing AES Op and ACSO training within the FAcT umbrella is also an evolution on the current training program. Previously, training for those aircrew were conducted exclusively by the RCAF.
The 25-year FAcT program, awarded to SkyAlyne in spring 2024, is currently in a multi-year transition period to become the sole Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF, as the current three separate RCAF training programs conclude, and their responsibilities are combined into FAcT. The FAcT program is overseen from a Joint Management Office at SkyAlyne’s Ottawa headquarters, with three operational bases: Moose Jaw, SK, Southport, MB, and Winnipeg, MB.
When operational, Canada’s Dash 8-400 fleet will be based at 402 Squadron in Winnipeg, Manitoba and operated in partnership with the RCAF.
QUOTES
“SkyAlyne is excited to be able to combine a proven aircraft platform in the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400, with our advanced airborne simulation solution for the Future Aircrew Training program. The addition of the Dash 8-400 levels up our training capabilities for AES Op and ACSO Aircrew who will get their Wings in the FAcT program in the years ahead. Selecting a made-in-Canada aircraft is a meaningful contribution to the Canadian economy and a strong signal of our belief in Canadian aerospace excellence. I extend my thanks to everyone at SkyAlyne, KF Aerospace, and De Havilland Aircraft of Canada who worked hard to bring this aircraft to the FAcT program.”
Kevin Lemke
General Manager, SkyAlyne
“After years of managing separate RCAF pilot training contracts, the SkyAlyne team is proud to expand our role to include ACSO and AES Op training under the FAcT program. The Canadian-built De Havilland Dash 8-400, with its proven performance, advanced capabilities, and enhanced safety features, is the ideal platform for this next chapter. We thank Canada once again for placing their confidence in us, and we know we’ll deliver exceptional results together.”
Tracy Medve
Board Chair, SkyAlyne President & CEO, KF Aerospace
“We are pleased to be part of the FAcT program. De Havilland Canada has been a part of training aircrews for over 97 years and we are pleased that our Dash 8-400 aircraft will continue that legacy of training the aircrews of the future using aircraft built to operate in some of the most challenging locations.”
Ryan DeBrusk
Vice-President of Sales De Havilland Aircraft of Canada
ABOUT
SkyAlyne: The Future of Aircrew Training SkyAlyne is the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider for the Royal Canadian Air Force. SkyAlyne is a team of defence, training, simulation, and aviation industry experts assembled from across Canada, working to prepare the next generation of RCAF pilots and aircrew. SkyAlyne was formed in 2018 as a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, two Canadian aviation, training, and defence leaders. The partnership was built to jointly answer the call for the Government of Canada’s FAcT program. In 2023 SkyAlyne was named the preferred bidder, and in 2024, was officially contracted to partner with the RCAF and deliver the FAcT program.
KF Aerospace: We’re all about the craft. A truly Canadian success story, KF Aerospace was founded as Kelowna Flightcraft in 1970 by Barry Lapointe and has since evolved into a leading aerospace company and the largest commercial Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) provider in Canada. KF Aerospace excels in aircraft MRO, aerospace engineering, military aircrew training, air cargo operations and aircraft leasing. Industry-recognized for its skilled workforce, KF Aerospace is dedicated to innovative, on-time and cost-effective solutions. KF Aerospace supports corporate, commercial, and military customers globally, including major aircraft manufacturers and airlines, and provides vital training and in-service support services for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
