SkyAlyne signs Canadian Helicopters Limited to support Future Aircrew Training program

Press Release

July 10, 2026 // Ottawa, ON — SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, and Canadian Helicopters Limited (CHL) are pleased to jointly announce the signing of a contract that will see CHL support the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

As part of the agreement, CHL has been awarded a major subcontract under SkyAlyne to deliver the Advanced Flying Training – Rotary Wing (AFT-RW) component of the FAcT program. Operating out of Southport, Manitoba, CHL will also serve as the designated Aircraft Maintenance Organization (AMO) for the FAcT rotary wing fleet, responsible for the operation, maintenance, and integrated sustainment of the CT-153 Juno (Airbus H135) helicopters throughout the program.

In addition to fleet sustainment, CHL will provide Qualified Flying Instructors (QFIs) and training services delivery, guiding student pilots through the advanced rotary wing training phase as SkyAlyne continues to build a modern, integrated training system for the next generation of RCAF Pilots and Aircrew.

“CHL’s decades of expertise in rotary-wing aviation and operations make them a very valuable addition to the Future Aircrew Training program,” says SkyAlyne General Manager Kevin Lemke. “Their knowledge, professionalism, and focus on safety will help strengthen SkyAlyne’s ability to deliver a modern and effective training solution for the Royal Canadian Air Force.”

CHL is one of Canada’s largest helicopter operators, with extensive experience delivering helicopter services in support of defence, public safety, resource, and infrastructure operations across the country. Through this partnership, CHL will contribute specialized aviation capabilities, advanced rotary wing training expertise, and long-term fleet sustainment support that will help ensure the success of the FAcT program for decades to come.

“Since inception, Canadian Helicopters has always championed quintessential Canadian projects and infrastructure. As a long-standing supporter of RCAF, the SkyAlyne partnership will ensure that relationship continues for at least 25 more years,” said Don Wall, President and Chief Executive Officer of CHL. “From our roots as the first commercial helicopter operator in Canada, to supporting the complexities of sovereignty and domestic resilience, our commitment to the FAcT program solidifies our enduring support of our country. Challenging times demand strong teams, and we believe SkyAlyne is that team.”

The FAcT program will deliver a comprehensive, long-term training solution for the Royal Canadian Air Force, bringing together Pilot and Aircrew instruction under a modern, integrated training enterprise. The program is overseen from a Joint Management Office at SkyAlyne’s Ottawa headquarters, with operations centered in Moose Jaw, SK, Southport, MB, and Winnipeg, MB.

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ABOUT

SkyAlyne: The Future of Aircrew Training

SkyAlyne is the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). 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.

Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca

Canadian Helicopters Limited

Founded in 1947, Canadian Helicopters is the largest helicopter transportation services provider in Canada. Based from 25 locations across Canada, Canadian Helicopters operates over 100 aircraft in support of a range of multinational companies and government agencies including defense, mineral exploration, forest management, hydro and other utilities, construction, air ambulance and search and rescue. In addition to charter services, company affiliates provide flight training and third-party repair and maintenance services.

Learn more: canadianhelicopters.com