Production test flights of Airbus H135 helicopters for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program have taken place, a key step on the path to training Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilots. The RCAF designation for the H135 is CT-153-Juno, and this aircraft was chosen by training contractor SkyAlyne as the helicopter training platform for the RCAF.
The next step is completion of the helicopters, which includes paint and supplemental type certification modifications to be done at the Airbus Helicopters facility in Fort Erie, Ontario.
“By operating twin engines from the outset of training, future RCAF pilots will be immersed in a real-world environment that matches the current operational fleet, ensuring a seamless transition to their first operational units,” said SkyAlyne head of training David Farman. “With Airbus’ Helionix avionics system, which is standard on twin-engine platforms, trainees will gain experience with advanced digital cockpits, a step forward from the analog systems in the current training fleet.”