SkyAlyne and KF Aerospace have procured three De Havilland Dash 8-400 regional airliners for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
Upon arrival, the planes will have their cabins reconfigured and fitted with solutions to be used for Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator and Air Combat Systems Officer courses.
The selection of the locally-built systems was driven by the Dash family of aircraft’s proven performance under the Canadian Air Force, particularly the older Dash 8-100 models, the consortium explained.
The newly-purchased 8-400 units will offer a larger fuselage, updated avionics, and enhanced performance for in-air simulations, the companies added.
“De Havilland Canada has been a part of training aircrews for over 97 years and we are pleased that our Dash 8-400 aircraft will continue that legacy of training the aircrews of the future using aircraft built to operate in some of the most challenging locations,” De Havilland Aircraft Canada’s Sales VP Ryan DeBrusk stated.
Future Aircrew Training Program
The 25-year FAcT effort aims to provide modern preparations for Canada’s aircrews, supporting the country’s goal to fortify its national airborne defense capabilities by the end of the decade.
“The SkyAlyne team is proud to expand our role to include [Air Combat Systems Officer and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator] training under the FAcT program,” SkyAlyne Board Chair and KF Aerospace CEO & President Tracy Medve commented.
“The Canadian-built De Havilland Dash 8-400, with its proven performance, advanced capabilities, and enhanced safety features, is the ideal platform for this next chapter.”
Expanding Practice Fleet
SkyAlyne, a joint venture between CAE and KF Aerospace, received the prime contract to deliver lessons, live flight training, and related services for the FAcT program in 2023.
The following year, Ottawa invested almost $10 billion to acquire up to 70 aircraft for the effort.
Chosen platforms for the FAcT fleet include the Airbus H135 helicopter, Grob G120TP low-wing, Pilatus PC-21 tandem cockpit, and Beechcraft King Air 260 transport systems.
De Havilland’s Dash 8-400
The Dash 8-400 is a short-range commuter system that can carry up to 90 passengers.
It is equipped with twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150A turboprop engines for a speed of 414 miles (666 kilometers) per hour, a range of 1,565 miles (2,519 kilometers), and an altitude of 25,000 feet (7,620 meters).
The plane’s airframe has an overall length of 107 feet (32 meters) and a wingspan of 92 feet (28 meters).