Airbus has delivered the first H-135 helicopter for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program, achieving a key milestone in the modernisation of pilot training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). 

The aircraft, designated the CT-153 Juno for service in the RCAF, will support training the next generation of RCAF pilots, providing a modern, twin-engine training platform equipped with Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite. The model was selected by SkyAlyne, the prime contractor responsible for delivering the FAcT program, to meet the evolving training requirements of future RCAF rotary-wing pilots.

It is part of a family with over 1,600 aircraft delivered to 325+ operators globally. There are more than 200 H-135 family helicopters delivered or on order for military training missions, having clocked more than 650,000 flight hours. The CT-153 Juno will support the development of core pilot skills including basic ab-initio, advanced IFR, and tactical training. The Helionix avionics suite additionally supports a seamless transition to larger, more complex aircraft. 

With this delivery, the RCAF will join 12 other militaries around the world who are using the H-135 to train their future air crews, including several of Canada’s close allies. Canada’s Juno fleet will be based at 15 Wing Southport with the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School.

The FAcT program represents a long-term investment by the Government of Canada to modernise pilot training across the RCAF. Airbus Helicopters will continue to support the program through the delivery of reliable, mission-proven platforms aligned with Canada’s operational requirements. The aircraft are completed and delivered from Airbus Helicopters’ industrial facility located in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada. They are customised with a number of Canadian developed Supplemental Type Certificates, including modifications to the avionics suite and communications systems, as well as custom development in the cockpit. Deliveries for the remaining aircraft for the FAcT program will continue through 2028.