Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

The Canadian government is buying 19 Pilatus PC-21s to train the next generation of air force pilots. The Swiss manufacturer announced the sale on Thursday and said the single turboprop aircraft will be stationed in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training program, from 2026.
The agreement was signed between Pilatus and KF Aerospace, which is the prime contractor for Canada’s Contracted Flying Training and Support program. SkyAlyne is KF’s partner for the 25-year Future Aircrew Training program.
“The PC-21 offers numerous benefits over conventional training aircraft and is equipped with cutting-edge avionics to ensure a seamless transition to frontline jets,” said SkyAlyne senior executive Kevin Lemke. “In addition, the PC-21’s innovative design delivers a significant reduction in operating costs and greater efficiency in training operations.”
<figure role="group" class="caption caption-img">
<img alt="Pilatus PC-21 cockpit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="49a09637-c4b8-46ed-a4be-a2357ccd1041" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/PC-21%20Cockpit_0.jpg" width="2500" height="1667" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>The cockpit of the Pilatus PC-21 twin-seat military flight training aircraft</figcaption>
</figure>

There are now almost 250 of the twin-seat PC-21s in service worldwide. Several other air forces in Europe, the Middle East, Australia and the Far East use the aircraft for training, and it has been in service with Switzerland’s air force since 2008.

News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

Canada Orders 19 PC-21s To Train Next Generation of Air Force Pilots

Future Aircrew Training program is run by KF Aerospace and SkyAlyne

The next generation of Royal Canadian Air Force pilots will train in a fleet of 19 Pilatus PC-21 single turboprop aircraft under a contract signed this week.

Canada Orders 19 PC-21s To Train Air Force Pilots

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In this article

Pilatus Aircraft

More In Training and Workforce

IBAC Adds Six Industry Partners from Four Continents

Program now includes 31 organizations across five continents

AINsight: Uprooting Your Kids May Be the Best Landing

Not grabbing the opportunity could lead to stagnant career progression

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Pilots ensure that business aviation remains viable and rewarding for its clients

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