Bombardier commits millions to aerospace hub in Downsview

Bombardier is reinforcing its partnership with the Downsview Aerospace Innovation and Research Consortium (DAIR) to establish an aerospace hub in Toronto’s Downsview area.

Through a multi-million dollar contribution, Bombardier will focus on three main goals: supporting DAIR’s academic and research activities, supporting DAIR’s operations, and preserving the aerospace heritage of the site.

“This agreement is great news for Ontario’s aerospace industry and for the people of Toronto,” said François Caza, vice-president, Product Development and chief engineer, Aerospace, Bombardier Inc.

“Since acquiring de Havilland in 1992, Bombardier has built strong relationships with local institutions to promote aerospace research and innovation. Through our new partnership with DAIR, we will continue to support the development of this unique ecosystem for many years to come.”

“I am thrilled with the ongoing support and leadership demonstrated by Bombardier and the opportunity this will unlock for aerospace in Ontario,” said Andrew Petrou, executive director, DAIR, and director, Strategic Initiatives and External Relations, Centennial College.

“This commitment will enable the growth of the Downsview Aerospace Hub through support for training and research, DAIR Innovation Centre physical space and operations, and preservation of the site’s aerospace heritage. Through this partnership with Bombardier, DAIR will be uniquely positioned to play a leading role in the development of tomorrow’s aviation solutions.”

Starting this year, Bombardier will provide $1.5 million over five years to fund core research at the Aeromaterials Research Centre, to be established at the DAIR Innovation Centre.

The centre will bring together industry and academic partners in a collaborative space for aerospace training and education, R&D, and sector advisory services to maintain Canada’s leadership role in the global market.

Starting in 2019, Bombardier will contribute an aggregate $1 million over five years for the creation of two Aerospace Research Centres at Ryerson University and the University of Toronto.

These centres will focus on research in the areas of advanced interiors and acoustics. In addition, Bombardier will provide funding to Centennial College for the completion of its Landing Gear Research 
project, while extending its existing training program to train a minimum of 50 individuals for each of the next three years at Centennial College’s Downsview Campus.

Bombardier will also provide $900,000 over the next three years to support formal operations of the DAIR Innovation Centre, and as a founding member of the consortium, will remain actively engaged by appointing a member to its board of directors.

Finally, in recognition of Downsview’s historical importance in the development of the aerospace industry in Ontario, Bombardier will be providing a total of $2.5 million in capital funding to refurbish the heritage “Moth Building,” which will be the cornerstone of the DAIR Innovation Centre.