Canada Modernizes Royal Canadian Air Force Training with Advanced Pilatus PC21 Aircraft
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On November 28, 2024, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) reached an agreement with Pilatus for the acquisition of 19 PC-21 advanced trainer aircraft, enhancing its Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Announced on November 28, this agreement designates SkyAlyne, a consortium formed by CAE and KF Aerospace, as the primary provider of pilot training for the RCAF under this 25-year initiative. These advanced aircraft are set to enter service in 2026 at the RCAF base in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
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Pilatus PC-21 Advanced Trainer Aircraft (Picture source: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)
Discussions between Pilatus and Canada regarding the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program began to take shape in 2023, when the Canadian government selected SkyAlyne as the preferred bidder to modernize military pilot training. In 2024, an official contract was signed, confirming the order for 19 PC-21 aircraft, which will replace the RCAF’s existing training systems. This partnership between Pilatus and SkyAlyne marks a key milestone in collaboration with Canada, aiming to deliver cutting-edge aircraft by 2026 to support advanced pilot training at the Moose Jaw base in Saskatchewan.
Kevin Lemke, an executive at SkyAlyne, emphasized the effectiveness and advanced technologies of the PC-21, making it an essential step for pilots in training before transitioning to operational aircraft. This contract reflects Canada’s commitment to modernizing its pilot training capabilities while adopting an environmentally friendly approach, thanks to reduced operating costs. The PC-21 also integrates a comprehensive training system, including mission planning and debriefing tools, along with essential educational resources for effective ground training.
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, hailed the agreement as proof of the aircraft’s advanced capabilities and its growing reputation among global military forces. With over 230 PC-21 units in service in countries such as Australia, France, and Saudi Arabia, the aircraft has demonstrated its versatility and efficiency in various operational environments. Pilatus is committed to providing strong customer support to the RCAF to ensure the success of this transformative project.
The integration of the PC-21 marks a major step forward for aircrew training in Canada, aligning the RCAF with some of the world’s most advanced air forces. This partnership not only modernizes Canada’s training infrastructure but also sets a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in military aviation training. The adoption of the PC-21 by the RCAF is set to shape the future of its pilot development program for decades to come.
The Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program is a 25-year initiative aimed at modernizing aircrew training, incorporating advanced technologies and optimized teaching methods. Launched in 2024 with the contract awarded to SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, it includes the acquisition of 19 Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, which will be operational by 2026 at the Moose Jaw base in Saskatchewan. Designed to meet the needs of contemporary military aviation, the program will offer a seamless transition from training to operations on modern fighter aircraft while reducing costs and environmental impact.
The PC-21 offers the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution for advanced pilot training. Its cutting-edge avionics systems and performance closely mimic those of fighter jets, ensuring a smooth transition for pilots in training. The integrated training system, which includes mission planning and debriefing tools, enhances learning efficiency while reducing costs and environmental impact. Based at the RCAF Moose Jaw base, the PC-21 supports the modernization of Canada’s aircrew training program (FAcT), aligning the RCAF with world-class training standards and preparing pilots for the challenges of modern aviation.
The Pilatus PC-21 is a single-engine turboprop trainer designed for advanced military pilot training, offering performance comparable to jet trainers. It is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68B engine, delivering 1,600 shaft horsepower, enabling speeds up to 685 km/h and a maximum operating altitude of 25,000 feet. The aircraft is equipped with a digital glass cockpit featuring three large multi-function displays, head-up display (HUD), and hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls, mirroring frontline fighter jets. With a maximum range of 1,333 km and integrated training systems, including mission planning and debriefing tools, the PC-21 delivers cost-effective, high-efficiency training while reducing the environmental footprint.
The Pilatus PC-21 is used by several air forces worldwide, with varying quantities depending on the country, demonstrating its popularity as an advanced trainer aircraft. Switzerland was the first European operator to adopt it in 2008, with a fleet of 8 aircraft. In 2018, France introduced 26 PC-21 aircraft for training its fighter pilots, becoming the second European operator and the eighth global military customer. Other countries that have integrated the aircraft into their training programs include Saudi Arabia, which operates 55 units, Australia with 49 aircraft, the United Arab Emirates with 25, Jordan with 10, Qatar with 24, and Singapore with 19. Spain has ordered 40 units, making it the largest European operator of the PC-21. These figures reflect the confidence placed in this aircraft for its ability to provide effective, modern training for military pilots.
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On November 28, 2024, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) reached an agreement with Pilatus for the acquisition of 19 PC-21 advanced trainer aircraft, enhancing its Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Announced on November 28, this agreement designates SkyAlyne, a consortium formed by CAE and KF Aerospace, as the primary provider of pilot training for the RCAF under this 25-year initiative. These advanced aircraft are set to enter service in 2026 at the RCAF base in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
Pilatus PC-21 Advanced Trainer Aircraft (Picture source: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd)
Discussions between Pilatus and Canada regarding the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program began to take shape in 2023, when the Canadian government selected SkyAlyne as the preferred bidder to modernize military pilot training. In 2024, an official contract was signed, confirming the order for 19 PC-21 aircraft, which will replace the RCAF’s existing training systems. This partnership between Pilatus and SkyAlyne marks a key milestone in collaboration with Canada, aiming to deliver cutting-edge aircraft by 2026 to support advanced pilot training at the Moose Jaw base in Saskatchewan.
Kevin Lemke, an executive at SkyAlyne, emphasized the effectiveness and advanced technologies of the PC-21, making it an essential step for pilots in training before transitioning to operational aircraft. This contract reflects Canada’s commitment to modernizing its pilot training capabilities while adopting an environmentally friendly approach, thanks to reduced operating costs. The PC-21 also integrates a comprehensive training system, including mission planning and debriefing tools, along with essential educational resources for effective ground training.
Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, hailed the agreement as proof of the aircraft’s advanced capabilities and its growing reputation among global military forces. With over 230 PC-21 units in service in countries such as Australia, France, and Saudi Arabia, the aircraft has demonstrated its versatility and efficiency in various operational environments. Pilatus is committed to providing strong customer support to the RCAF to ensure the success of this transformative project.
The integration of the PC-21 marks a major step forward for aircrew training in Canada, aligning the RCAF with some of the world’s most advanced air forces. This partnership not only modernizes Canada’s training infrastructure but also sets a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in military aviation training. The adoption of the PC-21 by the RCAF is set to shape the future of its pilot development program for decades to come.
The Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program is a 25-year initiative aimed at modernizing aircrew training, incorporating advanced technologies and optimized teaching methods. Launched in 2024 with the contract awarded to SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, it includes the acquisition of 19 Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, which will be operational by 2026 at the Moose Jaw base in Saskatchewan. Designed to meet the needs of contemporary military aviation, the program will offer a seamless transition from training to operations on modern fighter aircraft while reducing costs and environmental impact.
The PC-21 offers the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution for advanced pilot training. Its cutting-edge avionics systems and performance closely mimic those of fighter jets, ensuring a smooth transition for pilots in training. The integrated training system, which includes mission planning and debriefing tools, enhances learning efficiency while reducing costs and environmental impact. Based at the RCAF Moose Jaw base, the PC-21 supports the modernization of Canada’s aircrew training program (FAcT), aligning the RCAF with world-class training standards and preparing pilots for the challenges of modern aviation.
The Pilatus PC-21 is a single-engine turboprop trainer designed for advanced military pilot training, offering performance comparable to jet trainers. It is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68B engine, delivering 1,600 shaft horsepower, enabling speeds up to 685 km/h and a maximum operating altitude of 25,000 feet. The aircraft is equipped with a digital glass cockpit featuring three large multi-function displays, head-up display (HUD), and hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls, mirroring frontline fighter jets. With a maximum range of 1,333 km and integrated training systems, including mission planning and debriefing tools, the PC-21 delivers cost-effective, high-efficiency training while reducing the environmental footprint.
The Pilatus PC-21 is used by several air forces worldwide, with varying quantities depending on the country, demonstrating its popularity as an advanced trainer aircraft. Switzerland was the first European operator to adopt it in 2008, with a fleet of 8 aircraft. In 2018, France introduced 26 PC-21 aircraft for training its fighter pilots, becoming the second European operator and the eighth global military customer. Other countries that have integrated the aircraft into their training programs include Saudi Arabia, which operates 55 units, Australia with 49 aircraft, the United Arab Emirates with 25, Jordan with 10, Qatar with 24, and Singapore with 19. Spain has ordered 40 units, making it the largest European operator of the PC-21. These figures reflect the confidence placed in this aircraft for its ability to provide effective, modern training for military pilots.
