Ottawa — As the Royal Canadian Air Force modernizes its approach to preparing the next generation of military aviators, KF Aerospace is actively recruiting skilled professionals to play a foundational role in one of Canada's largest defence training initiatives.
SkyAlyne, a joint venture formed by KF Aerospace and CAE, secured the prime contract for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program in May 2024. Valued at $11.2 billion over 25 years, the agreement consolidates pilot, air combat systems officer, and airborne electronic sensor operator training into a single, integrated system that combines live flying, simulation, and ground instruction.
The program will field more than 70 new aircraft divided among five distinct fleets: the Grob 120TP for primary training, the Pilatus PC-21 for advanced jet-like performance, the Beechcraft King Air 260 for multi-engine proficiency, the De Havilland Dash 8-400 for larger transport-type experience, and the Airbus H135 for helicopter training. These platforms will operate primarily from 15 Wing Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan, as well as facilities at Southport and Winnipeg in Manitoba.
KF Aerospace, as the partner responsible for all fixed- and rotary-wing fleet engineering and continuing airworthiness, is central to ensuring these aircraft remain safe and mission-ready throughout the program's life. The company is seeking Aircraft Fleet Engineers to work from SkyAlyne's Joint Management Office in Ottawa, collaborating daily with Department of National Defence and RCAF staff.
Key responsibilities include airworthiness management, risk and configuration oversight, maintenance program development, design change evaluation, in-service monitoring, and rapid resolution of technical issues. The roles are especially tailored for aerospace engineers transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces, allowing them to apply specialized military experience in a civilian capacity while continuing to support RCAF readiness.
"This is an opportunity to shape the future of Canada's air force by ensuring the training fleets that will produce tomorrow's pilots and aircrew maintain the highest standards of safety and reliability," recruitment materials emphasize. Competitive compensation, health and dental benefits, pension matching, and relocation assistance are offered to support the transition to Ottawa.
The FAcT program replaces earlier contracted training arrangements and arrives as the RCAF builds on its 100th anniversary momentum. Recent progress includes the unveiling of commemorative RCAF liveries for the new fleets, subcontracts for site services at Southport, selection of digital maintenance platforms, and ongoing ramp-up activities expected to make FAcT the sole ab initio training provider in the coming years.
By investing in experienced engineering talent now, SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace aim to minimize risks during the multi-year transition and deliver a world-class, Canadian-led training capability that enhances operational readiness for decades. For retiring CAF engineers seeking meaningful impact on national defence, these positions offer a rare chance to remain engaged in military aviation at the forefront of innovation.
Industry observers note the program's significance extends beyond training volumes to sustaining high-technology aerospace jobs and expertise within Canada. As aircraft production and delivery milestones continue, the need for robust fleet engineering support remains critical to the initiative's long-term success.