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SkyAlyne Taps Textron Aviation for RCAF Pilot Training Aircraft, Simulation Hardware

SkyAlyne Taps Textron Aviation for RCAF Pilot Training Aircraft, Simulation Hardware

SkyAlyne and its subcontractors, KF Aerospace and CAE, have finalized purchase agreements with Textron Aviation to support the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training program.

SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace tapped Textron Aviation to supply seven Beechcraft King Air 260 aircraft. Concurrently, Textron will supply SkyAlyne and CAE with components for a full flight simulator and flight training devices, which CAE will manufacture.

The King Air 260 will serve as the primary multi-engine training aircraft for the FAcT program, replacing the existing King Air 90B. SkyAlyne said deliveries of the King Air 260 are anticipated to begin in the first half of 2028. Meanwhile, the simulator components will support the new aircraft’s ground-based training systems, which include full-motion simulators, virtual reality devices, cockpit trainers and desktop-based units.

Multi-engine pilot training under the FAcT program will be conducted at Southport, Manitoba, led by SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace in partnership with the RCAF. Moreover, Team SkyAlyne, which involves pan-Canadian subcontractors supporting the FAcT initiative, will lead additional training activities for aircraft and simulators based in Moose Jaw and Southport.

A $7.8 billion initiative, the Canadian government’s FAcT program is aimed at enhancing aircrew training for RCAF pilots, air combat systems officers and airborne electronic sensor operators. The 25-year program encompasses aircraft, simulators, civilian instructors, classroom training systems and support services such as maintenance and logistics. Last year, Canada awarded the contract to SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace. The agreement includes the acquisition of over 70 training aircraft across five fleets.

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