Focusing on aerospace for a stronger, more secure Canada
Did you know that Canada is one of the only countries in the world capable of designing, building, and certifying different types of aircraft from nose to tail? This is no coincidence, but rather the result a bold vision and political leadership, that helped lay the foundation for the world-class aerospace industry in Canada today.
In an era of increasing geopolitical uncertainty and technological advancement, maintaining Canada’s leadership in aerospace is more critical than ever. However, global competition and global trade relationships are shifting and intensifying. Other countries have long recognized aerospace as a pillar of economic resilience and national security, developing targeted industrial strategies, focusing on using policy and taxation to support their domestic industries and focusing on initiatives that drive strategic investments in their aerospace industries, supply chains, and broader economies. Canada must do the same.
As Canadians prepare for the next federal election, it’s essential that all political parties focus on how aerospace and the broader Canadian supply chain must be better supported to ensure the industry not only enhances its financial contribution to the economy, but also its ability to contribute to a more secure Canada for every region of the country.
From commercial aviation to defence and space, Canada’s aerospace industry is a major engine of our economy and national security – contributing nearly $29 billion in GDP and supporting over 200,000 jobs across the country. Notably, defence activity represented 25 per cent of total Canadian aerospace revenues in 2022. The industry fosters innovation, strengthens local supply chains, and provides high-paying, family-sustaining jobs for Canadian workers in communities from coast to coast to coast.
With 75 per cent of its outputs exported to global markets, Canada’s aerospace industry is a powerhouse of international trade. Canadian-made aerospace capabilities, technologies and components are found in aircraft and defence systems around the world, reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a trusted partner and global leader. Our expertise in advanced manufacturing, sustainable aviation, and next-generation defence technology ensures that Canada remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
A strong aerospace sector is not just about economic growth – it’s about national security, sovereignty, and maintaining a competitive edge on the world stage. Timely and efficient procurement policies and processes are among the crucial factors needed to further build and strengthen Canada’s defence industry, and ensuring the federal government meets Canada’s international defence commitments. Canada’s aerospace defence capabilities help ensure that our armed forces have access to world-class capabilities, technology and support, while our leadership in innovation helps shape the future of sustainable air travel.
A focused, long-term commitment to aerospace is crucial to ensure that our country continues to lead in innovation, job creation, and global competitiveness. The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) is committed to working with policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from all parties to ensure aerospace remains a priority for Canada in the years ahead. By focusing on aerospace, we are focusing on Canada’s future – creating jobs, fostering innovation, and securing our place in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Canada has the talent, expertise, and ambition to lead in aerospace. By focusing on aerospace for a stronger and more secure Canada, we can ensure our industry continues to soar and remains and a global leader in innovation, manufacturing, and support services. The more than 200,000 Canadian employees supported by aerospace and the more than 700 aerospace companies are ready to work with the new government. For more than 80 years we have punched above our collective weight and look forward to working with government partners from all parties to build a strong, sustainable, and globally competitive aerospace sector that benefits all Canadians.
As published in The Globe and Mail’s Excellence in Aerospace feature on April 17, 2025