Flying High

Winnipeg’s Aerospace Sector: exceptional expertise and overall lower cost of operations.

Winnipeg’s aerospace sector is the second largest in Canada, with the second highest concentration of aerospace employees in the country (1.17%). The concentration of Winnipeg’s sector is twice the Canadian average and only a fraction of a percentage point below Montreal’s.

There are approximately 3,600 people employed in aerospace manufacturing in Winnipeg and about 1,000 in air transportation support. The Manitoba Aerospace Association, from member surveys, estimates there are over 5,000 aerospace jobs in aerospace manufacturing.

 

Competitive Strengths

Winnipeg has the largest aerospace sector of any city in Western Canada and holds a competitive position in the Canadian and global aerospace manufacturing industry. The anchor aerospace firms represent significant expertise in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of military, commercial and business aircraft, as well as helicopters and general aviation aircraft. Winnipeg is home to the world’s largest independent small turbine engine repair firm and is home to manufacturing firms specializing in aircraft structural components.

Lower Cost of Doing Business

One of Winnipeg’s main competitive advantages is the overall lower cost of operations. Competitive labour rates and energy costs have contributed to the retention of key regional and international aircraft manufacturers. Research and development tax advantages and research infrastructure have also contributed to the sector’s long-term competitiveness.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Design, development, manufacture, repair and overhaul of structural composite components for commercial aircraft, structural components and jet engine components
  • Repair and overhaul of fixed wing aircraft
  • Repair and overhaul of rotary and turbine aircraft engines and accessories
  • Precision machining and precision sheet metal fabrication of high strength metals and alloys fixed and rotary wing pilot training
  • Design, remanufacture and rebuilding of vintage aircraft
  • Solid fuel rocket design, payload design and integration

 

 

Related Publications

Aerospace Profile