Airbus Contract Holds Potential for Alberni Valley Aerospace Sector

Earlier this week, the federal government announced that the Airbus C-295 transport had been chosen as Canada’s next fixed-wing search and rescue plane.The $4.7 billion procurement process is intended to replace the nearly 50-year-old CC-115 Buffalos and CC-130 Hercules transport planes.

The announcement holds significant potential for the aerospace sector in the Alberni Valley due to a partnership between Airbus and Coulson Aviation.  In 2015, the local company signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus to develop, manufacture, and install a tanking system for the Airbus C295W transport aircraft.

It is now hoped that this existing relationship can be furthered in support of the new contract secured by Airbus.

“This very well could be a defining moment for the aerospace sector in the Alberni Valley,” said Mayor Mike Ruttan. “It’s certainly an exciting moment for our community and reinforces the value of our investment in the Alberni Valley Regional Airport.”

British Columbia is a major player when it comes to aerospace, defense and avionics – and this announcement is anticipated to add to the growing landscape of technology, manufacturing and engineering jobs in the region.

“A company like the Coulson Group of Companies can consider expanding their operations anywhere in the world. The fact that they plan to continue to invest in our community reflects our mutually beneficial relationship and their commitment to the Alberni Valley,” stated Mayor Ruttan.