The first Airbus H135 helicopter destined for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program has been delivered, marking a significant step in the modernization of Royal Canadian Air Force pilot instruction.
The delivery is part of a 19-aircraft procurement under a contract signed in November 2024 between Airbus and SkyAlyne, the lead contractor for the FAcT initiative. Operating under the designation CT-153 Juno, the helicopter features Airbus’ advanced Helionix avionics system and will be employed for foundational pilot training, instrument flight instruction, and tactical mission preparation.
The helicopters will be stationed at 15 Wing Southport and utilized by the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, a key center for RCAF aviation training. The remaining aircraft are expected to enter service progressively through 2028.
Canada launched the FAcT program to overhaul and consolidate its military aircrew training system. SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, was selected to oversee the program in 2023 and later received a 25-year contract valued at $11.2 billion.
Once fully implemented, the program will replace existing training arrangements conducted by CAE Military Aviation Training in Saskatchewan and Allied Wings in Manitoba, whose agreements are due to expire by 2027. It will also take over training responsibilities for air combat systems officers and airborne electronic sensor operators.
The modernization effort includes the acquisition of more than 70 training aircraft distributed across five fleets: the Airbus CT-153 Juno, Grob G 120TP, Pilatus PC-21, Textron Beechcraft King Air 260, and De Havilland Dash 8-400, creating a comprehensive training ecosystem for future Canadian military aircrews.
