The first Airbus H135 helicopter intended for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program has been delivered, supporting the next phase of training for Royal Canadian Air Force personnel.
The delivery forms part of a 19-aircraft order placed under a November 2024 agreement between Airbus and SkyAlyne, the company responsible for implementing the FAcT program. Designated as the CT-153 Juno, the twin-engine helicopter incorporates Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite and will be used for foundational pilot instruction, instrument flight rules training, and tactical aviation exercises.
The fleet will operate from 15 Wing Southport under the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, a key institution responsible for developing future RCAF aviators. Deliveries of the remaining H135 helicopters will continue over the next several years, with completion expected by 2028.
Canada launched the FAcT program to transform and consolidate military aircrew training. SkyAlyne, formed by CAE and KF Aerospace, was chosen to lead the initiative in 2023 and later secured a long-term, $11.2-billion contract spanning 25 years.
The program will replace current pilot training arrangements delivered by CAE Military Aviation Training and Allied Wings, whose contracts are due to expire in 2027. It will also take over the training of air combat systems officers and airborne electronic sensor operators previously conducted by the RCAF.
Overall, the initiative includes the acquisition of more than 70 training aircraft across five different fleets, featuring the Airbus CT-153 Juno, Grob G 120TP, Pilatus PC-21, Beechcraft King Air 260, and De Havilland Dash 8-400, creating a comprehensive and modern training ecosystem for Canadian military aviation.
