Pratt & Whitney Canada Halifax Plant to Assemble, Test Engines
Pratt & Whitney Canada is transforming its Halifax facility into a world-class, high-technology aerospace centre. The assembly and test project, announced today, March 26, will require advanced training for about 60 employees and create up to 25 new positions.
It is the second phase of a $45-million investment program to develop an engine assembly line and testing facility.
The province is partnering with Pratt & Whitney Canada, providing $12 million through the Industrial Expansion Fund.
"This will be the first jet-engine assembly and testing facility to be built in Atlantic Canada, an important milestone for the Nova Scotia's growing aerospace and defence sector," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "We are investing in a world-class facility that will help maintain and expand Pratt & Whitney Canada's presence in Nova Scotia."
Starting in the fall of 2009, the new engine centre will assemble and test small to medium-sized turbofan engines. The engines feature the latest materials, fuel efficiency and environmental technologies available.
"This investment to give the Halifax facility an advanced technology mandate reaffirms our commitment to Nova Scotia for years to come," said Benoît Brossoit, senior vice-president, service centres and operations, Pratt & Whitney Canada. "It will also bring important new technologies and skill sets to the province and create exciting opportunities for the local aerospace sector.
"It will position our Halifax facility as a centre of excellence in aerospace engine manufacturing while strengthening Nova Scotia's positioning in the global aerospace industry."
The PW617 engine will be the first to be assembled and tested, when production begins. By leveraging the latest innovations in design technology, the PW600 family is opening new possibilities in business travel with the goal of saving time and money, while minimizing environmental impact.
"This project will result in an even more highly skilled, well-trained and well-paid workforce in Nova Scotia," said Karen Casey, Minister of Education. "Pratt & Whitney Canada has an excellent collaborative connection with our local universities and the Nova Scotia Community College. The resulting research projects will prepare the next generation of highly-skilled aerospace workers in this province."
Pratt & Whitney Canada, based in Longueuil, Que., is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines powering business, general aviation and regional aircraft and helicopters. The company also manufactures auxiliary power units and industrial gas turbines.
The Industrial Expansion Fund is one method the government of Nova Scotia uses to support economic development in the province. It is key to helping industries involved in innovative research and technology, while contributing to a prosperous and sustainable business climate for Nova Scotia. The fund has considerable flexibility in the amount and type of funding it can provide.