Market Intelligence: -General Aviation

Royal Canadian Air Force to Use 19 PC-21 Next Generation Trainers in the Future

Pilatus has signed a contract to deliver 19 PC-21 training aircraft. The PC-21 will not only provide Canada with the most technically advanced training system but also a very cost-effective, environmentally friendly training platform for military pilots.

Pilatus is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of a major contract with KF Aerospace as part of its collaboration with SkyAlyne for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) “Future Aircrew Training” (FAcT) program. The contract involves the delivery of nineteen state-of-the-art PC-21 training aircraft.

The nineteen PC-21s will be stationed at the air force base in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, from 2026. They will primarily be used to provide advanced training for aspiring military pilots. The 25-year FAcT program is designed to fundamentally modernize and expand the RCAF training capabilities.

“SkyAlyne is excited to be working with Pilatus on this important project. The PC-21 offers numerous benefits over conventional training aircraft and is equipped with cutting-edge avionics to ensure a seamless transition to frontline jets,” explains SkyAlyne senior executive Kevin Lemke. “In addition, the PC-21’s innovative design delivers a significant reduction inoperating costs and greater efficiency in training operations. These qualities make the PC-21 the ideal choice for Canada.”

Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, commented as follows on this important new contract: “This contract is further proof of the capabilities of our PC-21 training system. Canada ranks amongst the world’s most renowned and professional air forces, and we‘re very proud to be part of this groundbreaking project. We‘re very much looking forward to working with our partners and we can assure everyone of our commitment to providing Canada with the best training system and the best possible customer support. We‘d like to thank everyone for their confidence in Pilatus and the PC-21, our Next Generation Trainer made in Switzerland!”

Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President Government Aviation at Pilatus, added: “This milestone is a significant achievement for all involved, and we’re very proud that the PC-21 will now serve as the backbone of Canada’s military pilot training program for decades to come.”

Proven, integrated training system

The PC-21 by Pilatus offers an advanced training platform specifically designed to meet the requirements of modern pilot training. The PC-21 is known for its efficiency and versatility, and is recognized worldwide as a leading training aircraft. Besides the aircraft itself, the integrated PC-21training system also includes mission planning and debriefing systems as well as training materials – all essential elements to support ground-based training.

The total fleet of PC-21s worldwide currently stands at just under 250. Customers include the world’s leading air forces in Europe, the Middle and Far East, and Australia. The Swiss Air Force adopted the PC-21 in 2008, and has used it to successfully train future military pilots ever since then.

Source: Pilatus
Photo Credit: Pilatus

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Flight School Management Software Provider Flight Schedule Pro to Sponsor Stratus Financial’s AeroSummit 2025

United States based Stratus Financial, a leading financial services firm specializing in student pilot flight school financing,  has announced Flight Schedule Pro as a sponsor of the highly anticipated AeroSummit 2025. Recognized as a premier provider of flight school management software, Flight Schedule Pro plays a pivotal role in optimizing operations and improving training outcomes for flight schools across the United States.

AeroSummit 2025 will provide a platform for attendees to engage with Flight Schedule Pro, discovering their innovative solutions and the significant impact they have on the future of flight training.

Source: Stratus Financial
Photo Credit: Stratus Financial

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Flight School Association of North America Announces 16th Annual Flight School Operators Conference & Trade Show for February 2025

The 16th Annual International Flight School Operators Conference & Trade Show, hosted by FSANA, is set to take place from February 5-7, 2025, at Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA. This premier event for the flight training industry brings together flight school professionals, government representatives, supply chain partners, and aviation stakeholders for an unparalleled networking and learning experience.

With nearly 20 professional sessions to choose from, attendees will gain insights into increasing profitability, adopting growth strategies, embracing the latest industry trends and technology, and improving operational efficiency. Designed for flight school owners, managers, chief and assistant instructors, and those considering entering the field, the conference aims to equip attendees with actionable strategies to propel their businesses forward.

The event includes access to the exhibit hall, featuring over 50 exhibitors showcasing innovative products and services tailored to the flight training community. Attendees will also enjoy receptions, luncheons, and entertainment, enhancing the opportunity to network and connect with peers.

Source: FSANA
Photo Credit: FSANA

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Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 Concluded on a High Note, Highlighting the Latest Trends and Innovations in the Aviation Industry

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 has wrapped up after three dynamic days dedicated to aviation training, advanced air mobility, and the latest trends shaping the future of aviation. The event, inaugurated by H.E Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attracted over 15,000 participants, including top executives from the aviation industry, representatives from 50 aviation training academies, and more than 50 airlines from across the GCC, Europe, and Asia.

The successful conclusion of the Expo’s seventh edition highlights Abu Dhabi’s ambition to establish itself as a global aviation hub by bringing together leading industry players such as Gulfstream, Bombardier, Jet Aviation, FlightSafety International, and Sanad, a Mubadala company. The event featured the latest advancements in aerospace technologies and advanced air mobility, while also tackling important issues related to training, services, and sustainable aviation safety.

Didier Mary, CEO of 4M Events, stated, “We are delighted that more than 160 exhibitors joined us at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, ADNEC, marking a new chapter for the event. The satisfaction among exhibitors surpassed expectations, with high-quality business interactions over the three days. Numerous MOUs were signed during the event, solidifying this B-to-B event as a preferred fixture on the aviation industry calendar.” Thanks to our sponsors for their amazing support in showcasing Abu Dhabi at its best!

One of the major successes of the 2024 edition was the Middle East Aviation Career Trade Show and Conference (MEAC), which stood out among the various programs held at the event. MEAC garnered much attention as a platform dedicated to educating, inspiring, and promoting inclusivity within the aviation industry. Leading companies, industry experts, and over 40 top international flight training schools participated in this specialized career fair, enabling attendees to explore promising opportunities in the aviation sector in roles such as cabin crew, pilot training, airport management, and engineering, among others. As the UAE’s aviation sector continues to flourish, fueled by a rise in tourism and strategic investments, such conferences are essential to addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals. They provide a unique opportunity to explore diverse career prospects, embrace innovation, and share valuable insights.

The event received significant support from several prestigious partners; AD Mobility, as the Official Sponsor, played a crucial role, while Etihad Airways, serving as the Platinum Sponsor and Official Carrier Airline, the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi was the Official Destination Partner, enhancing the event’s appeal. ADNOC participated as a Platinum Sponsor, while SANAD, a Mubadala company, supported the event as the Gold Sponsor. Emirates Transport was responsible for providing VIP Transportation Services, Global Air Navigation Services (GANS). Furthermore, FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and innovation, was the Official Conference Sponsor for Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024.

Air Expo Abu Dhabi will return in April 2026!

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions. For more information, visit www.adairexpo.com

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi

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