Airbus Helicopters Delivers First H135 to Canadian FPNA Program
On Wednesday, Airbus Helicopters delivered the first H135 helicopter intended for the Canadian Future Aircrew Training Program (FPNA). Designated CT-153 Juno for the Royal Canadian Air Force, this modern twin-engine aircraft equipped with Helionix avionics marks the culmination of eighteen months of development and collaboration with SkyAlyne, the program's prime contractor.
A Twin-Engine Training Helicopter for the Modernization of the RCAF
The aircraft delivered on Wednesday meets the specific training needs of future Royal Canadian Air Force helicopter pilots. The CT-153 Juno will provide cadets with a training platform that facilitates the development of fundamental skills, including basic ab initio training, advanced instrument flight rules (IFR) training, and tactical training.
The helicopter was selected by SkyAlyne, the main contractor of the FPNA program, for its twin-engine architecture and capabilities aligned with the operational requirements of the RCAF. Airbus's Helionix avionics also facilitate a smooth transition to larger and more complex aircraft, according to the manufacturer.
An H135 Adapted to Canadian Standards with Local Modifications
The aircraft are completed and delivered from the Airbus Helicopters factory located in Fort Erie, Ontario. Each machine is customized through additional type certificates developed in Canada, including modifications to the avionics suite, communication systems, and cockpit.
The Canadian Juno fleet will be based at 15 Wing Southport, near the 3rd Canadian Forces Flying Training School. The delivery of the remaining aircraft intended for the FPNA program will continue until 2028.
The H135, a Proven Helicopter in the Global Military Market
The H135 is part of a family of aircraft of which more than 1,600 units have been delivered to over 325 operators worldwide. More than 200 helicopters from the H135 family have been delivered or are on order for military training missions, totaling over 650,000 flight hours. With this Canadian delivery, the RCAF joins 12 other military forces using this helicopter for the training of their crews, including several of Canada’s close allies.
