Calgary New Aviation Training Facility with WestJet to Skyrocket Tourism and Train Thousands of Future Aviation Professionals

Published on September 11, 2025

Calgary is set to become an even more prominent player in the global aviation landscape with the announcement of a new $100 million aviation training facility, set to open in the coming years. The partnership between WestJet and CAE, along with the support of local governments, promises to revolutionize the aviation industry in the city, bringing with it a host of benefits for the tourism sector, local workforce, and economy.

A New Chapter for Calgary’s Aviation Sector

On the heels of significant aerospace developments in the region, Calgary is poised to establish a state-of-the-art aviation training center in partnership with WestJet. The facility, slated to be a 126,000 square foot space, will become the cornerstone of the city’s efforts to meet the growing demand for aviation professionals worldwide.

WestJet has long been a key player in Canada’s aviation industry, and this new training center will serve as a critical piece of the puzzle in Calgary’s bid to strengthen its position as a top destination for aviation training. As part of the Alaska Air Group, WestJet will continue to build its international network while fostering the next generation of aviation professionals in Calgary.

Supporting Tourism Through Workforce Development

At the heart of this new facility lies a critical focus on workforce development, which will have a direct impact on tourism. The aviation sector is foundational to global travel, and the demand for skilled pilots and flight crews has surged in recent years. The new training center will cater to this demand, training up to 6,000 aviation professionals annually.

This will not only support WestJet and other airlines with qualified personnel but will also positively affect tourism in Calgary. With more pilots and crew being trained locally, the city will benefit from the increased demand for flights, leading to more tourists flying in and out of Calgary. The training facility will allow students from around the world to gain hands-on experience with the latest flight simulators and equipment, enhancing the city’s appeal as a hub for aviation education.

A Boost for Calgary’s Economy

The establishment of the new aviation training center will undoubtedly benefit Calgary’s local economy. Beyond just creating jobs for aviation professionals, the center’s construction and long-term operation will contribute significantly to the local economy. With an estimated $500 million in aviation-related activity expected over the next 15 years, the project is a critical driver of economic growth for Calgary.

Moreover, the integration of Mount Royal University into the facility will create educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in aviation. By offering access to cutting-edge flight simulators and aviation-related technologies, the partnership between WestJet and Mount Royal University will enrich the tourism workforce and further align the city’s education system with industry demands.

WestJet’s Expanding Role in Calgary’s Tourism Sector

WestJet’s commitment to Calgary’s growth is undeniable, with its ongoing efforts to expand and improve services to travelers. The airline recently placed a massive order of 67 Boeing aircraft, signaling a bold investment in its fleet and operations. This investment will have a direct impact on tourism, providing travelers with more options to fly into Calgary and other Canadian destinations.

By fostering close relationships with local educational institutions and offering career development through this new training facility, WestJet is contributing to a stronger, more sustainable tourism industry. Not only will tourists benefit from an expanded flight network, but they will also benefit from better-trained flight staff who are well-prepared to provide excellent service in all aspects of air travel.

Partnerships to Enhance Connectivity

In addition to the new training facility, WestJet has announced significant expansions in its flight offerings. The airline’s codeshare partnership with Qantas will open up new international routes between Calgary and Australia, further bolstering tourism opportunities. Calgary International Airport (YYC) will become an even more connected hub for global travelers, attracting visitors from Australia, New Zealand, and other parts of the Pacific.

With WestJet’s increased capacity and broader network, tourists will have more ways to explore Calgary’s stunning attractions, from the Rocky Mountains to the city’s vibrant arts scene. The facility’s expansion will also help alleviate the challenges posed by high demand, making travel to Calgary more accessible to global travelers and positioning the city as a top destination in North America.

Looking to the Future: A Sustainable Growth Path

The growth of Calgary’s aviation sector is a shining example of how the region is leveraging its assets to develop sustainable economic growth while enhancing its tourism appeal. By investing in training, education, and aviation infrastructure, the city is laying the foundation for long-term success in the competitive tourism market.

As the city continues to thrive as a major aviation hub, Calgary will undoubtedly attract more business travelers, international tourists, and aviation professionals. This, in turn, will bolster the tourism industry, create jobs, and make Calgary an even more attractive destination for global travelers.

Conclusion

With the launch of its new aviation training facility, Calgary is preparing for a bright future in the global aviation and tourism industries. The collaboration between WestJet, CAE, and Mount Royal University represents a significant step forward in workforce development and service enhancement, ensuring that Calgary continues to soar as a top choice for both air travel and tourism. With a commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and educational partnerships, Calgary is becoming a leading destination for aviation training, a place where the future of aviation is not only taught but also lived.

[Source: CTV News]