Airbus Group (OTC: EADSY) has delivered the first H135 helicopter under Canada's Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program, marking a milestone in pilot training modernization for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

The aircraft, designated the CT-153 Juno, is a twin-engine training platform equipped with Airbus' Helionix avionics suite. It was selected by SkyAlyne, the prime contractor for the FAcT program, to meet rotary-wing pilot training requirements. The aircraft will be based at 15 Wing Southport with the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School.

Kevin Lemke, General Manager of SkyAlyne, said the CT-153 Juno is "a core component" of efforts to train RCAF aircrew and noted the first aircraft was delivered within 18 months.

The CT-153 Juno will be used for ab-initio, advanced IFR, and tactical training. The aircraft are completed and delivered from Airbus Helicopters' facility in Fort Erie, Ontario, and include Canadian-developed modifications to avionics, communications systems, and cockpit configurations.

The H135 family has seen over 1,600 aircraft delivered to more than 325 operators globally, with more than 200 units delivered or on order for military training, accumulating over 650,000 flight hours. Thirteen militaries use the H135 for aircrew training.

Remaining aircraft deliveries under the FAcT program are scheduled to continue through 2028.