Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) helicopter pilot candidates will train in twin-engine Airbus H135 helicopters under a contract signed by SkyAlyne and Airbus Helicopters. SkyAlyne is a joint venture between training provider CAE and KF Aerospace, formed to provide H135s for RCAF helicopter pilot training as part of Canada’s Future Aircrew Training Program.
Under the contract, SkyAlyne will acquire 19 H135s along with a support and services package, assistance with developing ground-based training, and release-to-service engineering support. Completion and delivery of the helicopters will take place at Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Fort Erie, Ontario, following installation of avionics, communications, and other cockpit modifications.
New RCAF pilots will learn to fly in the H135s, which will also be used for instrument instruction and tactical training. “A full-spectrum training aircraft, the H135 facilitates the development of core skills while providing twin engines and advanced avionics, allowing easy and safe pilot transition to more complex helicopters in the RCAF’s fleet,” according to Airbus.
“Entering into this partnership with SkyAlyne and the Department of National Defence is a historic moment for Airbus Helicopters in Canada,” said Dwayne Charette, the Canadian division’s president. “This contract marks Airbus Helicopters’ successful entry into the Canadian military market.”