Shaping the Future of Military Flight Training: KF Aerospace’s Role in Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program

Canada - KF Aerospace is playing a significant role in the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program, a 25-year initiative that will modernize and enhance Canada’s military flight training capabilities. Beyond its partnership with CAE under SkyAlyne, KF Aerospace has been subcontracted to SkyAlyne for key tasks that leverage our expertise in aircraft acquisition, training, and airworthiness. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ll be doing as part of this important program:

Southport Base Operations and Multi-Engine Training Program

KF Aerospace will continue managing the Southport Base and we will take responsibility for Advanced Flying Training – Multi-Engine (AFT-ME) using the new Textron/Beechcraft King Air 260 (left) aircraft (a newer, larger and more advanced version of the King Air C-90Bs we currently operate).

While they previously handled Grob aircraft training, this will now be managed by CAE in Moose Jaw as part of the Basic Flying Training. The continued work at Southport will include:

• Scheduling of simulator and classroom training
• Flight Operations and Dispatch
• Training administration and continuous improvement
• Office-related functions and management of subcontractors

Although SkyAlyne will operate as the overarching brand, KF Aerospace will remain integral to day-to-day training operations at Southport, ensuring seamless support for Canada’s future aircrew.

There will also be a significant ramp-up period at Southport over the next few years, during which we will oversee the construction of new facilities and the delivery of new training equipment and aircraft.

Aircraft Acquisition

KF Aerospace is responsible for acquiring five training fleets to be used across three training sites (Southport, Moose Jaw and Winnipeg). These aircraft were selected to meet the diverse training needs of future aircrew:

• Grob G120TP for Basic Flying Training (BFT)
• Pilatus PC-21 for Advanced Flying Training (AFT) and Advanced Flying Training – Jet (AFT-J)
• Beechcraft/Textron King Air 260 for Advanced Flying Training – Multi-Engine (AFT-ME)
• Airbus H135 Helicopter for all Rotary-Wing Flying Training (AFT-RW)
• De Havilland Dash 8-400 for training Air Combat Systems Officers and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators in Winnipeg (ACSO/AESOp)

Each aircraft was chosen based on its performance, safety features, and suitability for military training. They will be critical for ensuring that future RCAF aircrew receive high-quality, mission-focused training that prepares them for real-world operations.

Airworthiness and Engineering (ATO)

In addition to Southport management and aircraft acquisition, KF Aerospace will ensure the airworthiness of all training aircraft. This includes overseeing the Acceptable Technical Organization (ATO), and ensuring that our fleet meets the stringent safety and operational standards required for military use.

Source: KF Aerospace Photo Credit: KF Aerospace