NR-05.022 - March 30, 2005 Kelowna, BC -- Today's selection of Kelowna Flightcraft Ltd. of Kelowna, British Columbia as the winning bidder for a potential 22-year $1.77 billion Contracted Flying Training and Support contract for the Canadian Forces heralds an exciting new era for the community of Portage La Prairie, Manitoba. Under the terms of the contract, Kelowna Flightcraft Ltd., leading a consortium of Canadian companies known as Allied Wings, will provide the Canadian Forces with long-term primary flight training, and specialized helicopter and multi-engine fixed wing pilot training. The contract requires the provision of all support activities including aircraft and simulators, construction of new flight line, ground training and classroom facilities, and the provision of aviation and student support services. “This program is an innovative approach to satisfying our pilot training requirements and represents a long-term commitment to Portage La Prairie, providing significant economic benefits and stability for years to come” said Defence Minister Bill Graham. “I am also convinced that through our long-term commitment to this initiative, we will be able to attract militaries from around the world to train in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba.” “The selection of this bid represents a substantial win for Kelowna Flightcraft and its Allied Wings partners in British Columbia, and across the country,“ said the Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry. “This ambitious and innovative bid will draw upon the expertise of partners in several regions, and provides an excellent example of how increased competitiveness can be achieved through technology, partnerships, and innovative thinking.” “Kelowna Flightcraft has been selected as the winning bidder following a competitive procurement process that was fair, open and transparent,” added the Honourable Scott Brison, Minister of Public Works and Government Services. “Canada has selected, amongst two strong technical proposals, the one representing the lowest cost to taxpayers.” “The Contracted Flying Training and Support program will provide cutting-edge training technologies and new aircraft that will enable the Canadian Forces to continue to produce Air Force pilots that are among the best in the world,” said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff. The Canadian Forces will continue to provide military instructors for helicopter and multi-engine fixed wing flying training, as well as quality assurance for the entire program. The program will become fully operational after a 14-to-24-month transition period. - 30 - For more information on the Contract Flying Training and Support program, see the Backgrounder on Contract Flying Training and Support (CFTS).
