The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has found a different way to provide training for its pilots. Through the “Future Aircrew Training” program, the service has contracted two private companies, SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace, to provide the infrastructure for this purpose.
After selecting the Grob G 120TP and H135 helicopters, the two partners have announced the acquisition of 19 Pilatus PC-21 advanced training turboprops.
The aircraft will be delivered starting in 2026 and will be based in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, in the south of the country.
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“SkyAlyne is excited to be working with Pilatus on this important project. The PC-21 offers numerous benefits over conventional training aircraft and is equipped with cutting-edge avionics to ensure a seamless transition to frontline jets,” said SkyAlyne senior executive Kevin Lemke.
“This contract is further proof of the capabilities of our PC-21 training system. Canada ranks amongst the world’s most renowned and professional air forces, and we are very proud to be part of this groundbreaking project,” said Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus.
Turboprop with jet performance
The PC-21 emerged in the early 2000s with the goal of offering jet training performance in a simple and affordable turboprop.
To this end, the aircraft features refined aerodynamics and a powerful 1,600 shp PT-6 engine, as well as a state-of-the-art cockpit.
The Pilatus aircraft has, in fact, replaced jets in some air forces, such as Switzerland (replacing the BAe Hawk) and Spain (retiring the CASA C-101).
To date, almost 250 aircraft have been delivered to ten customers.
