Canadian Aviation News

News, Fleet Information, Airport Log and more

Category: KF Aerospace

  • SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace acquire three De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 aircraft for RCAF Aircrew training

    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.

    Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

    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).

    Learn more: kfaero.ca.

  • KF President & CEO Tracy Medve Named Inductee to Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame for 2025

    December 13, 2024

    KF Aerospace proudly announces that Tracy Medve, President and CEO, has been named a 2025 inductee into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame (CAHF). This prestigious honour recognizes Tracy’s remarkable career in aviation and her transformative leadership in advancing the industry and securing KF Aerospace’s long-term success.

    Tracy is one of four individuals named to the 2025 class of inductees, whose achievements have left a lasting impact on Canadian aviation. The official induction ceremony will take place in September 2025 in Calgary, Alberta.

    “Tracy’s induction into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame is a reflection of her exceptional leadership and the profound influence she has had on Canadian aviation,” said Barry Lapointe, Founder and Chairman of KF Aerospace. “Her work has shaped the future of our company and left a lasting legacy on the industry as a whole. We couldn’t be prouder of this well-deserved recognition.”

    Since joining KF Aerospace in 2013, Tracy has played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a leading Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider. Under her leadership, KF has achieved major milestones, including securing the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) contract as part of SkyAlyne, a partnership with CAE. She has also been a proponent of women in the industry and in leadership roles, setting a bold, multi-year target of seeing women make up 25% of KF’s workforce by 2025.

    Tracy’s extensive contributions to Canadian aviation extend beyond KF Aerospace. She is the Past Chair of the Air Transportation Association of Canada (ATAC) and the first woman in Canada to be named an Honorary Life Member. In addition, she serves as Chair of the Fortis BC and SkyAlyne boards and is a part-time member of the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada.

    About KF Aerospace
    We’re all about THE CRAFT.

    For over 54 years, KF Aerospace has delivered innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including major airlines like WestJet, Air Canada, Boeing, Purolator and the Royal Canadian Air Force. From our humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and engineering, military aircrew training, air cargo operations and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by our founder in 1970. With facilities across Canada, KF is home to 1,200 highly skilled employees.

    To learn more visit www.kfaero.ca

    About Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame

    Established in 1973, Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame honours individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to Canadian aviation and aerospace. Learn more at cahf.ca.

  • SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace sign contract with Pilatus to acquire 19 PC-21 aircraft for FAcT Program

    OTTAWA and KELOWNA, CANADA // NOVEMBER 28, 2024 —Today SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace are pleased to jointly announce the successful signing of the purchase agreement with Pilatus to acquire 19 state-of-the-art Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

    The contract, executed by KF Aerospace as a major subcontractor to SkyAlyne for the FAcT program, secures production slots with aircraft deliveries expected to begin in the second half of 2026. The contract also includes Pilatus supplying various supporting equipment, including mission planning and debriefing systems, and training materials.

    Pilatus has supplied approximately 250 PC-21s to several air force customers, including the Swiss Air Force, the Spanish Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force, among others. The versatile, two-seat aircraft boasts leading avionics, fuel efficiency, performance, and training capabilities – making it the ideal platform to underpin advanced fixed-wing flying training for RCAF Pilots in the FAcT program.

    The 25-year FAcT program, awarded to SkyAlyne in spring 2024, is currently in a five-year transition period to become the sole Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF, as the three current 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 PC-21 fleet will be based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw in southern Saskatchewan and operated in partnership with the RCAF.

    Instruction activities for aircraft fleets based in Moose Jaw will be led by Team SkyAlyne in partnership with the RCAF and delivered by CAE as a major subcontractor, while instruction activities for aircraft fleets stationed at Southport will be led by Team SkyAlyne in partnership with the RCAF and delivered by KF Aerospace as a major subcontractor.

    QUOTES

    “The Pilatus PC-21 is the ideal advanced trainer for the Royal Canadian Air Force and SkyAlyne is excited to deploy it as part of the FAcT program. The aircraft is state-of-the-art and utilized by several other militaries, and it will undoubtedly serve Canada well in the years ahead. At SkyAlyne we are very grateful for the diligent work done by our partners at KF Aerospace and Pilatus to successfully conclude negotiations on our behalf. SkyAlyne is continuing our work to ensure the RCAF has the best-trained pilots in the world.”

    Kevin Lemke, General Manager, SkyAlyne

    “The PC-21 is one of the world’s most capable and reliable training aircraft, expertly built and supported by Pilatus. Its versatility allows it to serve in a dual role as both a general advanced live flying trainer and in advanced jet training, which provides Canada with excellent value and offers a unique advantage for the FAcT program. We’re thrilled to partner with Pilatus to deliver this exceptional platform for Canada’s next generation of aircrew training.”

    Tracy Medve, Board Chair, SkyAlyne President & CEO, KF Aerospace

    “We‘re very much looking forward to working with our partners SkyAlyne, KF Aerospace, and CAE. We can assure everyone of our commitment to providing Canada with the best training system and the best possible customer support. We‘d like to thank everyone for their confidence in Pilatus and the PC-21, our Next Generation Trainer made in Switzerland!”

    Markus Bucher, CEO, Pilatus Aircraft Ltd

    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.

    Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

    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).

    Learn more: kfaero.ca.

  • Purolator Awards KF Aerospace with Renewed BC Feeder Network Contract

    November 26, 2024

    10-year contract to deliver air cargo in British Columbia includes extension options and fleet renewal

    November 26, 2024—Kelowna, BC— KF Aerospace is proud to announce the renewal of its contract with Purolator for the BC Feeder Network (BCFN)—a relationship that has reliably served communities across British Columbia for nearly five decades. The new agreement spans 10 years underscoring the strength and longevity of this critical relationship. As part of the renewed agreement, KF Aerospace will upgrade the BCFN fleet to the modern ATR72-500F aircraft, helping to ensure continued efficiency and reliability in cargo transportation across the province.

    The enduring alliance between KF Aerospace and Purolator began in 1976, when KF’s founder, Barry Lapointe, personally piloted a high-priority cargo flight from Vancouver to Toronto at Purolator’s request, setting the foundation for nearly 50 years of collaboration.

    Over the years, KF Aerospace has consistently supported Purolator’s cargo operations, including supporting Purolator’s entire Canadian network from 1994 to 2015. KF has been supporting the Purolator network in British Columbia exclusively since 2015.

    KF crews load a Convair 580 as part of the current BCFN contract with Purolator

    Under the new contract, KF Aerospace will operate the BC Feeder Network for Purolator with an upgraded fleet, replacing its three Convair aircraft with three ATR72-500F aircraft – two containerized and one bulk loader configuration.

    “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with Purolator, a collaboration that has grown and evolved over nearly half a century,” said Tracy Medve, President and CEO of KF Aerospace. “This new 10-year contract and fleet renewal demonstrates our shared commitment to providing reliable cargo services across British Columbia. The addition of the ATR72-500F aircraft will enhance range, capacity and efficiency, ensuring that Purolator’s mission of on time reliability is extended well into the future.”

    The ATR72-500F fleet upgrade represents a significant enhancement for KF Aerospace’s operations. These aircraft offer improved fuel efficiency and more flexibility in handling diverse cargo needs. KF Aerospace will oversee acquiring and converting the ATR72-500Fs, with one conversion already near completion at KF’s main YLW MRO facility.

    Inside an ATR-72 freighter hold

    “This agreement marks an exciting new chapter for both KF Aerospace and Purolator,” Bryan Akerstream, Director of Business Development at KF Aerospace. “The transition to the ATR72- 500F will provide greater operational efficiency and support Purolator’s ongoing efforts to deliver critical goods to communities across BC — and potentially help expand their business into other markets.”

    “Purolator is proud of our long-standing alliance with KF Aerospace and we are pleased to extend that relationship for a further 10 years,” said Jay Kirkpatrick, Director, Air Network Operations, Purolator. “With the largest freight and courier network in Canada, Purolator is committed to providing exceptional service to our customers across the country. These fleet upgrades will ensure we continue to deliver the level of service both we and our customers expect.”

    The BCFN contract renewal with Purolator, along with several new and continuing contracts with civilian and military customers, positions KF Aerospace for potential future growth and further solidifies its role as one of Canada’s most diverse and capable aerospace companies.

    BC Feeder Network Route Map

    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 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.

  • SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace sign contract with Airbus to acquire 19 H135 aircraft for the FAcT program

    OTTAWA and KELOWNA, CANADA // NOVEMBER 4, 2024 — Today SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace are pleased to jointly announce the successful signing of the purchase agreement with Airbus Helicopters in Canada to acquire 19 advanced Airbus H135 helicopters for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

    The contract, executed by KF Aerospace on behalf of SkyAlyne for the FAcT program, secures production slots with aircraft deliveries beginning in mid-2026.

    SkyAlyne is excited to partner with Airbus Helicopters on this important project. Based in Fort Erie, Ontario, Airbus Helicopters in Canada manufactures components for Airbus’ global supply chains locally, creating jobs and driving economic growth in Canada. Additionally, the H135s being acquired by SkyAlyne for the RCAF will be completed in Canada at the Fort Erie facility.

    The H135 is the ideal rotary-wing training aircraft for the RCAF, with a well-earned reputation with global customers for performance, endurance, and cost-effective operations. Featuring twin-engines, Airbus’ most advanced avionics, and versatile configurations, the H135 will be a cornerstone of the RCAF rotary-wing fleet for decades to come. The H135 is currently in use by 12 other militaries, including in Australia and the United Kingdom.

    The 25-year FAcT program, awarded to SkyAlyne in spring 2024, is currently in a five-year transition period to become the sole Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF, as the three current 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 H135 fleet will be operated jointly with the RCAF and based at 15 Wing’s 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, located at Southport Aerospace Centre in Southport, MB.

    QUOTES

    “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.
    Kevin Lemke
    General Manager, SkyAlyne

    “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.”
    Tracy Medve
    Board Chair, SkyAlyne
    President & CEO, KF Aerospace

    “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.”
    Dwayne Charette
    President
    Airbus Helicopters in 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.

    Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

    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).

    Learn more at: ​kfaero.ca

  • KF Aerospace Secures Exclusive North American Distribution for Grob Aircraft SE

    Canadian aerospace firm reaches deal with German manufacturer on marketing, sale and lease of products and training services

    January 30, 2024—Kelowna, British Columbia— KF Aerospace is pleased to announce its newly established exclusive dealership arrangement with Grob Aircraft SE— a premier German aerospace manufacturer— for the North American market.

    This agreement entrusts KF Aerospace to market, sell and lease Grob products and pilot training services throughout Canada and the United States.

    The Grob 120 is renowned for its use in military pilot training programs globally, including by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) for basic flying training at the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) Program in Southport, MB. KF Aerospace has managed the CFTS Program with its Allied Wings partners since 2005. KF’s longstanding maintenance and operational expertise with Grob’s 120A aircraft ensures a seamless and knowledgeable experience for North American customers.

    Tracy Medve, President & CEO of KF Aerospace, expressed confidence in the synergy between the two aerospace firms: “This partnership with Grob is a great fit for us. We have developed a solid relationship with Grob over the last 18 years and we are strong believers in the products that Grob delivers. Our extensive experience with the Grob 120A uniquely positions us to support and expand the presence of these exceptional products and services in Canada and the US.”

    Clients interested in Grob Aircraft’s offerings will soon be able to reach out to KF Aerospace directly for expert guidance and support.

    About KF Aerospace We’re all about THE CRAFT.

    A Canadian success story, KF Aerospace was founded as Kelowna Flightcraft in 1970 by Barry Lapointe. It has 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).

    To learn more visit www.kfaero.ca

  • KF Aerospace to support the P-8A – Canada’s new Multi-Mission Aircraft

    December 5, 2023

    The Boeing P-8 is truly a multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft, excelling at anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and search and rescue

    Canadians were excited last week by the Government of Canada’s announcement that they had selected the Boeing P-8A for Canada’s new Multi-Mission Aircraft.

    Canada will acquire up to 16 of these aircraft with the earliest delivery expected as soon as 2026.

    KF Aerospace is proud to support the P-8A as a member of Team Poseidon. KF has partnered with Boeing to provide ongoing maintenance support from our facilities in Canada, once the aircraft is operational with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

    The exact workshare and structure of that work is yet to be determined; however, we do anticipate increased hiring of skilled trades positions in order to accommodate this program at our facilitates.

    Here are some more reasons why this announcement matters to us and why we think this is good for Canada:

    • The P-8A is based on a Boeing 737-800NG airframe – a civilian aircraft that KF Aerospace has extensive experience within our commercial maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) business. We have been working with Boeing products for over 30 years and are ready to apply our experience and expertise to support this platform for our military
    • KF Aerospace has a growing partnership with the Boeing Company. KF was recently named a Global Supplier of the Year for our work on Boeing civilian programs, and we are excited to be collaborating with Boeing Defense, Space & Security on another program critical to supporting the Canadian Armed Forces.
    • Our assessment is that Canada made the right decision to acquire a proven aircraft, interoperable with our Five Eyes and NATO Allies, and with a low-risk path to upgrade this capability for the RCAF. Canada’s pragmatic decision will help deliver this capability to the RCAF in the fastest possible timeline
    • The P-8 program for Canada will generate and support nearly 3,000 jobs and add $358 million to Canada’s economy, every year for the next 10 years.

    “KF Aerospace’s growing relationship with the Boeing Company has led to more high-quality jobs at our company and increased economic benefits around our operations in British Columbia and Ontario. This partnership empowers us to increase the skills of our workforce while continuing to establish our company as a leading Canadian aerospace firm and extend our global reach.

    We commend Canada’s strategic decision to acquire the P-8A Poseidon as a vital upgrade for our military, and we are looking forward to supporting this innovative military aircraft at our Canadian maintenance facilities.”

    – Tracy Medve, President & CEO, KF Aerospace

    Watch: Defence Minister Bill Blair, ISED Minister François-Philippe Champagne and PSPC Minister Jean-Yves Duclos announce Canada’s acquisition of the P-8A.

    About KF Aerospace

    We’re all about THE CRAFT.

    For 53 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 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.

  • KF Aerospace receives Boeing 2023 Supplier of the Year award

    High-performing suppliers lauded for operational excellence

    August 28, 2023—Kelowna—KF Aerospace announced it has received recognition from The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] as one of its top-performing suppliers at The Boeing Company’s 2023 Supplier of the Year event.

    KF Aerospace was recognized as top performer  in the Safety and Quality category. KF Aerospace, Canada’s largest commercial maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), maintains, manufactures and installs Boeing products for various customers and supported the Boeing 737 Max Entry to Service program for Alaska and United Airlines.

    “We’re honoured to receive this award from The Boeing Company – a testament to our ever-growing relationship with one of the world’s leading aerospace companies,” said Tracy Medve, President and CEO, KF Aerospace. “This relationship enables us to directly apply our 35-plus years of experience working on Boeing airframes while generating quality jobs and economic activity in British Columbia and Canada.”

    Top-performing suppliers were recognized for driving a stable, predictable production system that contributes to Boeing’s safety, quality, sustainability and delivery commitments to customers.

    “The Supplier of the Year winners were proactive, transparent and reliable in a challenging environment,” said William Ampofo, Vice President of Parts & Distribution Services and Supply Chain for Boeing Global Services and chair of Boeing’s Supply Chain Operations Council. “Over the past year, their collaboration and commitment to safety and quality was the gold standard to help us drive stability in our supply chain and consistently deliver for our customers.”

    KF also directly supports the Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) program with a 737-800 passenger-to-freighter conversion line located at its Kelowna facility. KF has partnered with Boeing Defence, Space and Security on the P-8 Poseidon Team to deliver an advanced solution to the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project.

    The CMMA project will upgrade Canada’s military capabilities in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) – in addition to search and rescue and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief response.

    If selected, KF would provide in-service support for the P8-A, an advanced military aircraft derived from the Boeing 737NG commercial airliner.

    About KF Aerospace

    We’re all about THE CRAFT.

    For 53 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 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.

  • Boeing Recognized KF Aerospace for The Safety & Quality Award

    ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 23, 2023 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] recognized 12 of its top-performing global suppliers at its 2023 Supplier of the Year event. The suppliers were celebrated for driving a stable, predictable production system that contributes to Boeing’s safety, quality, sustainability and delivery commitments to customers.

    “The Supplier of the Year winners were proactive, transparent and reliable in a challenging environment,” said William Ampofo, vice president of Parts & Distribution Services and Supply Chain for Boeing Global Services and chair of Boeing’s Supply Chain Operations Council. “Their collaboration and commitment to safety and quality was the gold standard to help us drive stability in our supply chain and consistently deliver for our customers.”

    Boeing works with more than 11,000 active suppliers worldwide and spends in excess of $34 billion on more than one billion parts every year. The Supplier of the Year Award program is an industry-leading recognition program that highlights the accomplishments of Boeing’s top-performing suppliers.

    KF Aerospace

    KF Aerospace

    KF Aerospace was recognized with the Safety & Quality Award. This award is given to a supplier who demonstrated commitment to safety and quality improvements that resulted in supply chain-leading performance.

    Learn More

  • KF Aerospace supports Indigenous pilot training after hangar fire

    January 9, 2023

    A temporary hangar structure was donated to the First Nations Technical Institute to allow continued flight training for indigenous students.

    January 9, 2023—The First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) flight training program remains open to students following a devastating fire that destroyed much of its campus and hangar facilities in the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory of Ontario last year. With students temporarily re-housed, external support from the aviation industry was pivotal in recovering the program.

    In response to the disaster, KF Aerospace volunteered to donate a temporary hangar structure to safely house aircraft required for continued training at Mohawk Aerodrome. KF staff and contractors worked closely with FNTI to identify key facility requirements and complete the installation in time to protect its fleet from harsh winter conditions.

    KF Aerospace President & CEO, Tracy Medve says it was a successful collaboration between industry segments. “FNTI does incredible work to support Indigenous representation in the aerospace sector while also addressing Canada’s critical pilot shortage. We were honoured to share our expertise and deliver a timely solution to keep their students flying.”

    The First Peoples’ Aviation Technology Program is the only post-secondary Indigenous aviation program of its kind in Canada and provides hands-on flight training for students interested in pursuing a pilot’s licence or working in the aviation industry. In 2022 the program had an enrollment of 42% Indigenous women.

    “The loss of our hangar, AMO, dispatch and planes in February was devastating for FNTI and our aviation students, who come from urban and remote communities across Canada,” said Suzanne Brant, President of FNTI. “We are fortunate to have resilient staff who pivoted to provide students with training options, ensuring minimal program interruption.  The aviation industry stepped up and offered much-needed contributions toward maintaining uninterrupted pilot training, and providing temporary solutions until our hangar could be rebuilt.”

    To learn about upcoming aviation training opportunities with FNTI please visit https://fnti.net/aviation-program.


    About First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI)

    FNTI is an Indigenous-owned and governed First Nations institute. The post-secondary institute has 38 years of rich history delivering programming rooted in culture and Indigenous ways of knowing.

    FNTI’s community-driven approach coupled with an intense program delivery method allows Indigenous learners to maintain connections to family and community while they study and prepare for their future careers.

    FNTI is a not-for-profit, registered charitable organization, accredited by the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC) and the World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium (WINHEC). They are also a proud member of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).

    About KF Aerospace

    For 52 years, KF Aerospace has delivered innovative aircraft solutions for corporate, commercial and military customers worldwide—including OEM’s like Boeing; major airlines like WestJet, Sunwing, Cargojet, Lynden Air Cargo and Icelandair; and the RCAF. From humble roots in the Okanagan Valley, KF has grown to specialize in aircraft maintenance and modifications, military aircrew training, passenger and cargo flight operations, and leasing—with the same commitment to quality and service established by its founder in 1970. KF Aerospace is home to over 1,100 staff across Canada. To learn more visit: www.kfaero.ca