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Canada marks National Aviation Day: AIAC applauds

105 years ago today, J. A. D. McCurdy became the first Canadian to achieve controlled powered flight by piloting the AEA Silver Dart off the ice of Baddeck Bay in Bras d’Or Lake, Nova Scotia. For over a century, Canada has led the world in developing and manufacturing cutting-edge aircraft and aerospace technologies.

Today, Canada’s aerospace industry is the world’s 5th largest, contributing nearly $28 billion to the national GDP each year. It is a manufacturing innovation leader, spending $1.7 billion annually on R&D, and heavily integrated into the global marketplace, exporting 80% of its products to destinations around the world. Our companies are industry leaders in many diverse areas, including business jets, engines, flight and visual simulation, landing gear, space robotics, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).

Global industry forecasts indicate massive growth for the aerospace industry over the next two decades. World-wide demand is expected to result in nearly 37,000 new aircraft and $4.5 trillion worth of work. Thanks to a strong, united effort by industry and government, Canada’s aerospace industry is well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. AIAC and its members will continue to work hard with our partners to build on our strong foundation and help to ensure its continued vitality in the years and decades to come.

On behalf of the members of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada, I salute the many Canadians who have built and continue to contribute to an aerospace and aviation industry that we are deeply proud of.