RCAF's New CT-153 Juno Helicopter
- Stéphane Leclair
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has received its first Airbus H135 helicopter. In RCAF service, the aircraft is known as the CT-153 Juno. It is part of Canada's Future Aircrew Training program and is designed to help train the next generation of military helicopter pilots.
CT-153 Juno Helicopter Characteristics for Airports
Property | Detail |
Aircraft Type: | Airbus H135 / CT-153 Juno |
ICAO Type Designator: | EC35 |
Engine Type: | Twin-engine turbine |
Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): | 3,100 kg |
Typical Configuration: | 2 pilots plus 2 observers |
Length: | 12.6 m |
Rotor span: | 10.42 m |
Height: | 3.9 m |
Maximum speed: | 251 km/h |
Range: | 631 km |
Building the Next Generation of Pilots
The CT-153 Juno is not a combat helicopter. Its main job is training. Student pilots will use it to learn basic flying skills, instrument flying, navigation, and advanced flight procedures before moving on to operational aircraft.
The helicopter uses Airbus' modern Helionix avionics system. The digital cockpit gives students experience with the technology they will encounter later in their careers. The new fleet of 19 helicopters will eventually replace the CH-139 (Bell 206) and CH-146 (Bell 412) helicopters that have supported Canadian rotary wing training for many years.
The CT-153 Juno fleet will be based at 15 Wing Southport in Manitoba and operated by the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School. As additional aircraft are delivered over the next few years, the helicopters may also be seen at airports across Canada during training exercises and cross-country flights.
A Helicopter Used Around the World
The H135 is one of the world's most successful light twin-engine helicopters. More than 1,600 have been delivered to operators around the world. The aircraft is used for military pilot training, emergency medical services, police operations, search and rescue support, government missions, and corporate transportation.
Several allied nations already use the H135 to train military pilots. Canada now joins that group as it modernizes its training fleet and prepares pilots for future operational helicopters.
Looking Ahead
The arrival of the CT-153 Juno is the beginning of a major upgrade to Canada's military training system. While the aircraft will not serve in operational missions, it will play a critical role in training the pilots who will eventually fly the RCAF's frontline helicopter fleets. The program also highlights Canada's continued investment in modern aviation training and aerospace capability.
For airport operators, the CT-153 Juno is a new aircraft type that may become increasingly common at military training locations across Canada, making it worthwhile to ensure your aircraft databases are up to date.
