Canada’s Military Pilot Training Program Hits Milestone with New Helicopter Test Flights

Canada –Airbus Helicopters has successfully conducted the first production test flights of the H135/CT-153 Juno helicopters selected for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. The milestone marks a significant step forward in SkyAlyne’s modernization of Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilot training.

• The H135 helicopters, designated CT-153 Juno by the RCAF, underwent approximately one-hour production test flights focusing on mechanical and avionics system performance.
• These twin-engine aircraft were selected by SkyAlyne as the new rotary-wing training platform under the FAcT program, replacing older analog aircraft to reflect current operational realities.
• Final customization and installation of Canadian-developed supplemental type certificates (STCs) will occur at Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Fort Erie, Ontario.
• The aircraft are equipped with Helionix avionics, offering trainees hands-on experience with advanced digital cockpit systems early in their flight careers.
• According to SkyAlyne, this approach allows RCAF cadets to train on platforms more aligned with the operational aircraft they will eventually fly, improving training continuity and fleet transition.

Statements

• “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.”– David Farman, Head of Training, SkyAlyne

About SkyAlyne
SkyAlyne is a Canadian joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, established to deliver the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program for the Royal Canadian Air Force. The consortium integrates military and civil aviation expertise to develop a unified, modern pilot training solution for Canada, encompassing both fixed- and rotary-wing instruction.

About Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Helicopters, a division of Airbus Group, is a leading global manufacturer of civil and military rotorcraft. With a production and completion center in Fort Erie, Ontario, Airbus Helicopters plays a key role in Canadian defense programs and supports localized final assembly, certification, and engineering services.

Source: SkyAlyne