OTTAWA — With the Royal Canadian Air Force modernizing its pilot and aircrew training infrastructure, KF Aerospace is actively recruiting experienced aerospace engineers to play a central role in one of Canada’s largest defence procurement programs in recent years.
In May 2024, the Government of Canada selected SkyAlyne Canada Limited Partnership — a joint venture formed by KF Aerospace and CAE — to deliver the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program under a 25-year contract valued at $11.2 billion including taxes. The program replaces legacy training contracts and introduces state-of-the-art platforms to prepare the next generation of RCAF pilots, Air Combat Systems Operators and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators.
KF Aerospace, as a founding partner and major subcontractor, holds primary responsibility for airworthiness and technical oversight of the entire trainer fleet. This includes five distinct aircraft types: the Grob G 120TP for basic training, the Pilatus PC-21 for advanced pilot training, the Beechcraft King Air 260 for multi-engine instruction, the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 for sensor operator training, and the Airbus H135 for helicopter instruction. More than 70 aircraft in total will be acquired, with a purchase agreement for 19 PC-21s signed in late 2024 and deliveries commencing in the second half of 2026. Initial operations with the Grob G 120TP began earlier this year at Canadian bases.
Training activities will be centered at established RCAF facilities in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, as well as Southport and Winnipeg in Manitoba. A Joint Management Office located in Ottawa brings together SkyAlyne personnel with Department of National Defence and RCAF staff to oversee the complex, multi-decade effort.
The company is particularly interested in candidates transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces. Aircraft Fleet Engineer positions focus on critical continuing airworthiness tasks including risk and configuration management, maintenance program development, design change approval, in-service monitoring and resolution of technical issues across the mixed fleet. Engineers will collaborate daily with military personnel to maintain the highest standards of safety and availability for these advanced training platforms.
“These roles offer retiring CAF engineers a chance to continue contributing to Canadian military aviation in a civilian capacity while enjoying competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, pension matching, and relocation support,” KF Aerospace stated in its recruitment materials. The Ottawa base provides a balance of professional challenge within a supportive environment.
The FAcT Program is expected to generate or sustain approximately 3,400 jobs nationwide and contribute roughly $405 million per year to Canada’s gross domestic product over its lifetime. It represents a fully Canadian solution to military aircrew training needs, building on the expertise of both KF Aerospace in aircraft operations and maintenance and CAE in simulation and training systems.
As the RCAF progresses through the multi-year transition and ramp-up phase, with early aircraft now entering service, the demand for specialized engineering talent is immediate. Positions are available now, offering participants the opportunity to directly influence the future readiness of Canada’s air force during a period of strategic modernization.
Industry observers note that successful execution of FAcT will be key to ensuring the RCAF maintains its high training standards while integrating newer, more capable aircraft that better prepare aircrew for current and future operational environments. With the program now moving from contract award to active implementation, KF Aerospace’s recruitment drive forms a vital part of building the specialized team required for long-term success.