Local companies take flight at Nova Scotia International Air Show

A delegation of Newfoundland and Labrador aerospace and defence companies and organizations recently returned from the Nova Scotia International Air Show and Aerospace Exhibition (NSIAS). The delegation, which was organized by the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development, was pleased with the outcome of the conference. Seven organizations from this province participated in the exhibition, which was held from September 4-7 at Shearwater Airport near Halifax.

"The Newfoundland and Labrador delegation of companies gained new ground, made important international contacts with key players in the industry and showcased their expertise and capabilities at the event," said Industry, Trade and Rural Development Minister Foote. "The aerospace and defence industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is a relatively young industry in our province, but shows substantial potential for growth and the creation of new jobs."

The focus of NSIAS was on the Government of Canada�s $3 billion Maritime Helicopter Project that will replace the existing SeaKing fleet of aircraft. All three of the bidding consortiums were present:

• Maritime Helicopter Team (Sikorsky/Bombardier Aerospace/General Dynamics Canada);
• NH90 Team (Lockheed Martin/Thales/Eurocopter); and
• Team Cormorant (AgustaWestland).

The Maritime Helicopter Project teams pursued partners for their required Industrial Regional Benefits (IRB) Package at the NSAIS. IRB Packages outline commitments by bidders to award contracts to Canadian suppliers or to invest in Canadian business through partnerships, joint-ventures or research and development funds.

"The presence of the Maritime Helicopter Project teams at the event was pivotal for our companies. Representatives from the provincial delegation met with each of the three teams to discuss areas of opportunity for collaboration," said Minister Foote. "The Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development will follow up on this initiative by assisting in coordinating visits by each of the three bidding teams to the province in October for supplier development seminars and company site visits, which could lead to significant new business for our aerospace and defence companies."

Another key outcome of the NSIAS was an agreement to form an Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Alliance. The alliance, modeled after the Western Canada Aerospace Alliance, will bring together industry and government representatives from each of the Atlantic provinces to work in partnership for the continued development of the aerospace and defence sector in the region as a whole. In particular, the alliance will provide a strong industry voice for the Atlantic region on opportunities resulting from major procurements by the federal government.

The aerospace and defence industry was highlighted in government�s Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth as having the potential to develop into a high technology niche manufacturing and service industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. The sector currently generates annual sales of $20 million throughout the province.

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-4570

2003 09 16                                       10:45 a.m.