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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US Flight Training Group Takes Delivery of Another 10 Single Engine Aircraft in December 2024

Phoenix, USA – AeroGuard Flight Training Center has celebrated the arrival of 10 new Piper Archers, part of its 90-aircraft order with Piper Aircraft. The deliveries reflect AeroGuard’s commitment to scaling its fleet to support its expanding student body and maintain high training standards.

  • Fleet Growth:
    • In 2024 alone, AeroGuard has added nearly 30 planes, bringing its fleet size to approximately 120 aircraft.
    • The latest additions are part of a 90-aircraft order with Piper, with more deliveries scheduled for 2025.
    • AeroGuard also plans additional acquisitions outside of the Piper order to meet training demands.

Source: AeroGuard Flight Training Center

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Tecnam and Polish Flight School, Smart Aviation, Announce Purchase Agreement during MEAC Middle East Aviation Career 2024

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Tecnam and Smart Aviation announced during the MEAC Middle East Aviation Career the purchase agreement for three (3) additional Tecnam P2006T NG twin engine aircraft for its fleet expansion programme. The aircraft will be used for PPL – Private Pilot Licence – up to MCC/JOC – Multi Crew Cooperation Course/Jet Orientation Course, modules for ATPL courses.

Based in Poznan, Poland, Smart Aviation ATO has been training aspiring pilots from more than 50 nationalities for over a decade, to start their careers with the world’s major airlines.

Today, the Polish academy operates a Tecnam fleet of:

  • seven (7) Tecnam P2008-JC
  • four (4) Tecnam P2006T
  • one (1) Tecnam P2002-JF
  • one (1) Tecnam P2002-JR
  • one (1) Tecnam P-Mentor.

The two new P2006T NG will innovate the Smart Aviation fleet, standardize the fleet and increase the capacity of the ATO. This new and significant investment is part of Smart Aviation’s commitment to ensure that potential commercial pilots are being trained on state-of-the-art aircraft such as its wide range of Tecnam models.

The P2006T NG, Next Generation is the latest version of the P2006T, one of the smartest twin engine aircraft on the market today, offering unbeatable value and innovative design with a modern Garmin avionics suite, integrating all primary flight, navigation, communication and terrain data on two high-definition LCDs.

The aircraft is also equipped with two-axis autopilot, for the most efficient MEP complex training.

Fitted with two Rotax 912iSc3 injected engines, the Tecnam P2006T exhibits remarkable fuel savings and can be operated on AVGAS and MOGAS fuel, leading to huge cost savings, offering the best training for Multi Engine, Variable Pitch and Retractable Landing Gear ratings. The advanced avionic system offers VFR/ VFR Night, MEP, IR, PBN (LNAV, VNAV, LPV).

Mateusz Dzialynski, CEO and Head of Training at Smart Aviation, airline pilot on B737, said: “Our decision to invest in the latest Next Generation P2006T was based on the increasing demand for flight training in Europe and because it is one of the best trainers equipped with the most advanced avionics.”

“Smart Aviation is a clear example of Tecnam’s long-term commitment to innovating flight training. Our fleet solution is a market leading offering that provides reliability, cost control, intelligent training and low emissions,” said Walter Da Costa, Tecnam Chief Sales Officer.

About Smart Aviation
ATO Smart Aviation from Poznan was established in 2013 and is now one of the largest flight schools in Poland. Smart Aviation is an EASA-approved training organisation offering modular training for pilots from zero to ATPL. Our graduates are employed by leading airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Enter Air, Air Malta, SunExpress, Pegasus Airlines and other renowned airlines worldwide. The school records over 10,000 flight hours per year.

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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