Some big news for Kelowna aviation company KF Aerospace.

The Kelowna company has partnered with Montreal-based CAE to form SkyAlyne Canada Inc.

The 50/50 joint venture will focus on delivering all phases of pilot training to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)  through the NATO Flying Training in Canada program managed by CAE, and the Contracted Flying Training and Support program managed by KF Aerospace.

Photo Credit: KF Aerospace.

“The union of our two companies through the SkyAlyne Canada joint venture brings together proven expertise in all phases of pilot training, and helps ensure this key industrial capability can be developed and delivered by Canadian companies for Canada,” said Marc Parent, president and CEO, CAE, in a press release.

“SkyAlyne Canada will draw on the resources and experience of both CAE and KF Aerospace, along with many industry partners in our supply chain across the country, to design and develop innovative pilot and aircrew training solutions that can meet the current and future training needs of Canada and our allies.”

With over 47 years experience in maintenance, repair, overhaul and modification services, KF Aerospace currently has over a 1,000 employees.

Photo Credit: KF Aerospace.

“SkyAlyne will build on Canada’s proud heritage started during World War II as an international leader in military aircrew training, and we look forward to working with CAE through the SkyAlyne joint venture to develop next-generation pilot and aircrew training solutions in Canada.”

KF Aerospace has served as the primary contractor for the RCAF since 2005, providing services and support to the RCAF in training pilots and aircrew.