Today seems like a good time to look in on Canada’s aerospace sector – an industry that contributes significantly to the Canadian economy, generates substantial revenue ($29 billion in GDP), and is a hub for innovation and research and development (R&D).
In its 2023 State of Canada’s Aerospace Industry report, the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (in partnership with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) noted that globally, Canada ranks:
- Number one in civil flight simulators,
- Third in civil engines (#1 in turboprop),
- Fourth in civil aircraft, and
- Is the only country to rank in the top five in civil flight simulators, civil engines, and civil aircraft sub-segments.
The sector is heavily export-oriented; more than 75% of revenues were from exports, and almost 60% were supply chain-related and included engines (63%), parts and components (16%), avionics (12%), and landing gear (9%). Of final products, aircraft was the largest share (33%), followed by flight simulators (5%), and helicopters (3%). The report also states that industry activity is now at 97% of pre-pandemic levels.
Activity in Canada’s aerospace industry is national in scope, with regional specializations. Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activity is highest in Western Canada (38%). British Columbia’s aerospace industry has grown significantly in recent years, with businesses delivering components and services to the global market, including complex parts (i.e., aircraft communication systems and illuminated panels) to industry titans Boeing and Bombardier. Boeing recently invested $61 million in BC’s industry for multi-mission aircraft, data analytics technologies, and other initiatives.
Alberta’s industry strengths lie in five key subsectors: robotics and unmanned vehicle systems; defence electronics; aerospace-based geomatics and scientific research; manufacturing and MRO; and military logistical support. Alberta is home to four major Canadian military bases, and defence activity is prominent in that province. De Havilland Canada is building a new aircraft manufacturing facility in Alberta, and will include a state-of-the-art aircraft assembly facility, a runway, parts manufacturing and distribution centres, and an MRO centre.
Aerospace is one of Manitoba’s fastest-growing sectors; MRO is its primary activity, and accounts for roughly 80% of industry revenues (aerospace training and services account for the remaining 20%).
Ontario is a leader in numerous production segments, including landing gear, turboprop aircraft, business jets, turbine engines, avionics, environmental systems, and space robotics. It is also home to key players including MDA Space, Bombardier, Airbus, Magellan, Thales, Safran, Heroux Devtek, and Collins.
Atlantic Canada’s aerospace and defence (A&D) sector is essential to the region’s economy and is anchored by IMP Aerospace & Defence and Irving Shipbuilding Inc., two large, regionally headquartered firms. Industry strengths include naval shipbuilding and design, aerospace and naval maintenance, MRO, sonar and acoustics systems, training and simulation, autonomous systems, ground vehicle solutions, and cyber security.
Aéro Montréal points to Quebec’s Greater Montreal region is one of the world’s most important aerospace clusters – the third largest after Toulouse and Seattle. The province has six prime contractors, 15 world-class original equipment manufacturer (OEM) integrators, and a vast network of subcontractors and specialized product suppliers. Bombardier, Airbus, Bell Helicopter, Textron, CAE, Pratt & Whitney, and more than 200 other specialized companies call the Montreal cluster home and contribute significantly to the regional economy. In May 2024, Boeing invested $240 million in the Montreal region’s new aerospace innovation zone which includes a state-of-the-art aerospace development centre and strategic investments in Héroux-Devtek and Wisk, Montréal-based industry leaders. (It’s part of Boeing’s Industrial and Technological Benefits commitment to Canada for selecting the company’s P-8A Poseidon as its future maritime patrol aircraft.)
Canada’s aerospace trade shows and related events are excellent places to learn more about – and make connections in – the Canadian aerospace sector. Aeromart Montréal (March 25-27, 2025) is one such event and features OEMs and Tier 1 companies, the entire supply chain, and international participants. “Thanks to its unique concept, Aeromart Montréal has become the leading global aerospace venue based on pre-planned B2B meetings, and it provides a remarkable opportunity to identify potential partners, customers, and suppliers.”
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