OTTAWA, CANADA // JANUARY 27, 2025 — Today SkyAlyne and Team SkyAlyne shareholders and major subcontractors, KF Aerospace and CAE, announced the successful completion of purchase contracts with Textron Aviation in support of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace have contracted Textron Aviation to deliver seven Beechcraft King Air 260 aircraft. To support Ground-Based Training Systems (GBTS) for these aircraft, SkyAlyne and CAE have also contracted Textron Aviation to deliver components for a full flight simulator and flight training devices, which will be manufactured by CAE.

The King Air 260 will serve as the multi-engine training aircraft for all multi-engine pilot training within the FAcT program. It replaces the King Air 90B, which has been reliably serving as the multi-engine trainer within the existing RCAF training program since 2005. SkyAlyne and major subcontractor KF Aerospace, in partnership with the RCAF, will deliver FAcT multi-engine pilot training at Southport, Manitoba.

The FAcT program will utilize leading GBTS systems, including full-motion simulators, virtual reality devices, cockpit trainers, desktop-based systems, and other materials to support RCAF Pilot and Aircrew training. Team SkyAlyne, with major subcontractor CAE, will provide GBTS devices across the FAcT operational sites. The increased utilization of advanced GBTS enables a more modernized approach towards Pilot and Aircrew training resulting in increases in efficiency and effectiveness. 

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 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.

Additional training activities will be provided by CAE and KF Aerospace as part of Team SkyAlyne, in collaboration with the RCAF. This includes activities for aircraft and simulator fleets based in Moose Jaw being led by Team SkyAlyne in partnership with the RCAF and delivered by CAE as a major subcontractor. Meanwhile, instruction activities for aircraft fleets and simulators stationed at Southport will be led by Team SkyAlyne in partnership with the RCAF and delivered by KF Aerospace as a major subcontractor.

King Air 260 deliveries for the FAcT program are expected to begin in the first half of 2028.

QUOTES

“I’m excited to see the Beechcraft King Air 260s as part of the FAcT fleet. These twin-engine turboprop aircraft deliver versatility, high performance, efficiency, and advanced avionics – all essential ingredients for effective Pilot and Aircrew training. Likewise, advanced simulation equipment creates new possibilities for improved Pilot and Aircrew training efficiency and effectiveness. My thanks to the teams at SkyAlyne, CAE, KF Aerospace, and Textron Aviation for their hard work in support of the FAcT program.”

– Kevin Lemke, General Manager, SkyAlyne

“Acquiring the Beechcraft King Air 260 for FAcT reinforces our commitment to providing outstanding military pilot training with proven, high-performing aircraft at Southport. KF Aerospace has been proud to operate and maintain the King Air C90B for nearly 20 years as part of the current training program and we’ve built a strong foundation of expertise on this airframe. Bringing in the larger and more advanced King Air 260 will enable KF, our partners at SkyAlyne and the RCAF to deliver next-level multi-engine training under the FAcT program.” 

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

“CAE’s innovative simulation-based training systems for multiple platforms, including the Beechcraft King Air 260, are critical to the FAcT program. For more than 75 years, CAE’s integrated simulation and training technologies have significantly contributed to the safety and mission readiness of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Through our unmatched innovation and expertise, our team is proud to continue to provide an enhanced training environment for the next generation of RCAF Pilots and Aircrew.” 

– France Hébert, Board President, SkyAlyne, Vice-President and General Manager Defense & Security, Canada, CAE Inc.

“The Beechcraft King Air 260 will modernize multi-engine aircraft training by providing an intermediate and advanced training platform for RCAF Pilots destined for operational squadrons in the heavy transport, maritime patrol or search and rescue roles. Following the U.S. Navy order, this consolidates the King Air 260 as the military multi-engine trainer for many generations of aspiring pilots.” 

– Bob Gibbs, Vice President, Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation

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

CAE
At CAE, we equip people in critical roles with the expertise and solutions to create a safer world. As a technology company, we digitalize the physical world, deploying software-based simulation training and critical operations support solutions. Above all else, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security forces to perform at their best every day and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we’re everywhere customers need us to be with approximately 13,000 employees in more than 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. CAE represents more than 75 years of industry firsts—the highest-fidelity flight and mission simulators as well as training programs powered by digital technologies. We embed sustainability in everything we do. Today and tomorrow, we’ll make sure our customers are ready for the moments that matter.

Read CAE’s FY24 Global Annual Activity and Sustainability Report

OTTAWA, CANADA and HALIFAX, CANADA // DECEMBER 18, 2024 — Today SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, and Bluedrop Training & Simulation are pleased to jointly announce the successful signing of a 25-year contract. The contract confirms Bluedrop’s support of SkyAlyne in delivering the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

“Building and then delivering the Future Aircrew Training program to the RCAF is a monumental undertaking, which requires top-level expertise and know-how, which is why it is so important to have Bluedrop part of Team SkyAlyne,” said Kevin Lemke, General Manager of SkyAlyne. “As SkyAlyne works on military aircrew training solutions, it’s important that our team is made up of the best companies, with strong track records of success, from all across Canada.”

The FAcT program is the RCAF’s next-generation aircrew training program, which combines three separate training programs into one. The FAcT program includes training all RCAF Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSOs) and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES OPs) to Wings Standard. The program will become operational over the coming years.

Bluedrop is a Halifax-based business with a strong history of contributions to RCAF training, including years of experience supporting the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program, led by KF Aerospace and multiple programs with CAE, including Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) and Operational Training Systems Provider (OTSP) among others. Bluedrop’s involvement in the FAcT program is a natural extension of this collaboration with CAE and KF Aerospace to deliver industry-leading training material to the RCAF.

“As a Small/Medium Enterprise, it is a tremendous opportunity to be a part of Team SkyAlyne and the FAcT program for the coming 25-years. Our team at Bluedrop provides exceptional know-how and superior levels of support to our customers,” explained Derrick Rowe, CEO, Bluedrop Training & Simulation. “The future of aircrew training increasingly includes simulation, virtual reality, and augmented reality systems. Bluedrop is positioned to advance the program and maintain relevance for the long-term.”

Bluedrop’s contributions to SkyAlyne in this contract includes provision and configuring of software components, development and continuous improvement of courseware in Moose Jaw and Southport, and providing maintenance technicians in Moose Jaw.

The Government of Canada officially awarded the FAcT program contract to SkyAlyne in late May 2024. SkyAlyne’s solution for the FAcT program includes expertise from a number of leading Canadian companies, including Bluedrop. Formalizing agreements between SkyAlyne and its subcontractors is an important step in moving the program forward.

“Momentum is growing as the FAcT program moves forward,” added Lemke. “It’s exciting to see the entire team coming together, all working to ensure Canada has the best trained aircrew in the world.”

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 to deliver the FAcT program. Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

Bluedrop Training & Simulation

Bluedrop provides products and services for advanced training solutions, including highly interactive courseware, technical publications, state-of-the-art virtual, augmented and mixed reality training simulation products and in-service-support. Bluedrop is a partner of choice by bringing capabilities in R&D and innovative solution development. For additional information, visit www.bluedropts.com

Ottawa, Ontario, December 17, 2024 – CGI, (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB) one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, and SkyAlyne, a leading provider of military pilot and aircrew training in Canada, announce the signing of a 25-year agreement. 

This strategic partnership is set to build SkyAlyne’s operational capabilities, streamline processes, and drive innovation for Canada’s Department of National Defence Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Under the terms of the agreement, CGI will deliver a comprehensive suite of services, including cybersecurity, cloud computing, end-user services and infrastructure management. CGI’s extensive experience in IT and consulting will help SkyAlyne reimagine aircrew training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), consolidating three aircrew training operations under SkyAlyne and the Government of Canada’s joint management. 

“SkyAlyne has found the ideal Canadian-founded information technology partner to help us design the IM/IT solution for the FAcT program and deliver on execution,” said Kevin Lemke, SkyAlyne’s senior executive. “CGI is perfectly positioned to help shape and execute our information technology roadmap and infrastructure and help us drive operational excellence. This partnership will help SkyAlyne deliver a world-leading military aircrew training solution to the Royal Canadian Air Force, ensuring RCAF aircrew are equipped with the skills and capabilities necessary to succeed in challenging conditions at home and around the world.”

“This long-term partnership represents a significant milestone for both organizations,” said Michael Godin, CGI President, Canada. “By combining CGI’s IT and business consulting expertise with SkyAlyne’s industry-leading training capabilities, we are poised to deliver unparalleled value and innovation in the aviation training sector.” 

CGI has a proven history of successfully delivering innovative solutions for governments and industry by combining deep business and mission knowledge with next-generation technologies.

Source: CGI

About CGI
Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,250 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2024 reported revenue is $14.68 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

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

OTTAWA, CANADA // November 19, 2024– Today SkyAlyne is pleased to announce the successful signing of a contract with Grob Aircraft SE to acquire 23 Grob G 120TP aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

The Grob G 120TP is an upgraded version of the Grob G 120A, which is currently in use by the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program, operated by KF Aerospace and the RCAF for RCAF Pilot training. The TP variant features updated avionics, higher performance, and a more powerful turboprop engine.

“The new Grob G 120TP will serve as the Basic Flying Training aircraft for the FAcT program, which means every RCAF Pilot who gets their wings will begin their flying training on this aircraft. Selecting the right aircraft for this role is tremendously significant to ensure that RCAF pilots have the best foundation to build upon,” explained SkyAlyne’s senior executive, Kevin Lemke. “Together with our partners across Team SkyAlyne, we are dedicated to building a world-leading pilot and aircrew solution for the RCAF. We are honoured each and every day to be entrusted to partner with the RCAF to deliver the FAcT program.”

The signing of the purchase agreement between SkyAlyne and Grob Aircraft confirms production slots and manufacturing schedule. Factory acceptance of aircraft is expected to begin in August 2025.

The Grob G 120TP is currently in use by numerous other militaries, including Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In total, over 200 Grob G 120TPs have been delivered worldwide to-date.

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 RCAF training programs conclude, and their responsibilities are merged 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, SkyAlyne will manage and maintain the fleet while providing instructors to serve alongside RCAF instructional personnel. The Grob fleet will be based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

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

May 29, 2024—Ottawa, ON— The Government of Canada has awarded a landmark contract for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program to SkyAlyne. This transformative initiative, set to last 25 years with a value of $11.2 billion, reimagines training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), consolidating three aircrew training operations under SkyAlyne and Canada’s joint management.

SkyAlyne, a partnership between Canadian aerospace leaders CAE and KF Aerospace, was chosen to be the FAcT contractor after a rigorous selection process. CAE and KF Aerospace – the current incumbents of legacy RCAF pilot training programs in Canada – joined to form SkyAlyne to provide a made-in-Canada solution for the FAcT Program.

This program is a significant step forward to prepare Canadian Military Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators for tomorrow’s challenges. Under the FAcT Program, SkyAlyne – in collaboration with the RCAF – will design, develop, and deliver a comprehensive training and support system, including live flying, simulation, ground school training, and a suite of in-service support functions. Fittingly coinciding with the RCAF’s 100^th anniversary, the FAcT Program is the next symbol of Canada’s proud history of excellence in military aircrew training.

“It is a privilege to be entrusted by Canada to lead the FAcT Program, a role that speaks volumes about our team’s relentless effort and expertise,” France Hébert, President of SkyAlyne and Vice President of Defense & Security at CAE Canada. “We’re grateful to have the opportunity to deliver top-tier training solutions that align with the dynamic needs of the Canadian Armed Forces. This is a milestone moment for us and all the companies on the SkyAlyne Team, highlighting our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.”

Tracy Medve, Chair of the SkyAlyne Board and President & CEO of KF Aerospace, adds: “The vision for FAcT represents a unified effort from Canada’s finest minds and organizations. We’re geared up to bring this vision to life with our truly Canadian expertise, working closely with Canada and the RCAF to usher in a new era of aircrew training. Our focus is beyond meeting today’s standards but shaping the future of aircrew readiness, creating new jobs and opportunities in communities across Canada.”

Centrally managed from Ottawa, the FAcT Program will revamp and expand upon training services currently provided by KF Aerospace and CAE, with operations set to continue at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Southport (Portage la Prairie) and 17 Wing Winnipeg. The program includes the establishment of a complete training enterprise at all three operating locations, helping ensure the RCAF maintains the highest standards of excellence and innovation.

This contract also aligns with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and Value Proposition, requiring investments in Canada equal to the contract value. SkyAlyne is committed to investing in Canadian industry and the inclusion of an extensive Indigenous Participation Plan.

“With a shared focus on innovation and excellence, we’re poised to transform aircrew training not just for Canada, but globally,” said Kevin Lemke, General Manager, SkyAlyne. “This program is our pledge to help advance Canada’s military readiness to unprecedented levels.”

About SkyAlyne

Truly Canadian Training | SkyAlyne brings together two Canadian companies with unmatched experience and capabilities in delivering innovative pilot and aircrew training in Canada. Currently, CAE and KF Aerospace deliver all phases of pilot training to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) through the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program managed by CAE, and the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program managed by KF Aerospace. Website.

SkyAlyne named as preferred bidder in competition to train future military aircrew

July 28, 2023—Ottawa, ON—SkyAlyne – a partnership between Canadian companies CAE and KF Aerospace – has been identified by the Government of Canada as its preferred bidder to manage the future training program for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

The FAcT contract will cover all aspects of the required training and in-service support to train Canadian military pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSOs) and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES Ops). Contract award is anticipated in 2024.

“We are honoured to be named by Canada as the preferred bidder for FAcT,” said France Hébert, President, SkyAlyne and Vice President, Defense & Security – Canada, CAE. “SkyAlyne’s selection is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team and showcases our capabilities to provide world-class training solutions that meet the evolving needs of the RCAF and the Canadian Armed Forces. Our sincere thanks to Canada and the RCAF for this opportunity.”

“SkyAlyne’s proposed solution for FAcT was the collective effort from an outstanding team of individuals and companies from across Canada,” says Tracy Medve, SkyAlyne Board Chair and President and CEO, KF Aerospace. “SkyAlyne is ready to execute the FAcT contract and collaborate with Canada and the RCAF on preparing our aircrew for the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

FAcT is a comprehensive training and in-service support contract that includes all classroom instruction, simulator and flight training, as well as numerous on-site support activities and infrastructure services. The new single contract will replace and expand training services currently provided through two separate contracts (managed by SkyAlyne parent companies KF Aerospace and CAE) and through in-house aircrew training delivery by the RCAF.

Training operations will continue at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Portage la Prairie (Southport), Manitoba and Winnipeg, Manitoba, with FAcT, and SkyAlyne will be tasked to lead the significant rebuilding of facilities and modernization of equipment, including new fleets of training aircraft.

Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and Value Proposition applies to this procurement, requiring investments in Canada equal to the contract value.

SkyAlyne also submitted an extensive Indigenous Participation Plan as part of the requirement to commit a minimum of 5% of the contract’s value.

About SkyAlyne

Truly Canadian Training | SkyAlyne brings together two Canadian companies with unmatched experience and capabilities in delivering innovative pilot and aircrew training in Canada. Currently, CAE and KF Aerospace deliver all phases of pilot training to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) through the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program managed by CAE, and the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program managed by KF Aerospace. Website.

About Future Aircrew Training (FAcT)

The Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program is the Government of Canada’s next-generation military pilot and aircrew training program, combining all Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilot training with aircrew support training. SkyAlyne has been identified by the Government of Canada as its preferred bidder for the FAcT program. Currently, the contract award date is expected in 2024. Website