Alberta’s aerospace and aviation industry is set for a major boost as Lufthansa Technik Canada announces a $120-million investment to establish a state-of-the-art maintenance and repair facility at Calgary International Airport.
The facility will specialize in Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion (LEAP) engines, making Alberta a key player in the global narrow-body aircraft market.
The investment is a major win for the province, securing Alberta as one of only five certified global operators for next-generation LEAP engines. The move also paves the way for WestJet to enter a 15-year, multi-billion-dollar maintenance contract with Lufthansa Technik, solidifying long-term economic benefits for Alberta’s aviation industry.
“Alberta’s government is proud to welcome this historic partnership between WestJet and Lufthansa Technik Canada right here in Calgary,” said Premier Danielle Smith.
“This agreement will have a far-reaching impact on our economy and serves as a testament to the strong levels of investor confidence in our province.”
The provincial government is backing the investment through several initiatives. Lufthansa Technik Canada will receive $3 million from Alberta’s Investment and Growth Fund (IGF) to support the facility’s development. Additionally, $4.45 million from the Aerospace Workforce Development Grant will help provide training and employment support to ensure a skilled workforce is ready for the expansion.
Lufthansa Technik Canada’s presence in Alberta is expected to create up to 160 permanent jobs and 170 temporary construction jobs, spanning roles from highly skilled technicians to engineers and support staff. This growth aligns with Alberta’s economic diversification strategy, reinforcing the province’s position as a leader in aerospace innovation.
The new Calgary facility will provide mobile engine maintenance and test cell services, offering Canadian aviation operators a cost-effective alternative to overseas maintenance. This will increase operational efficiency and cut costs for airlines, with WestJet set to be the first customer at the facility once it opens.
“WestJet was founded on the idea of improving air travel and making it affordable for Canadians,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet Group.
“This historic contract award will allow us to bring critical engine repair operations home to Canada, demonstrating our commitment to improving our competitiveness and supporting the Alberta economy.”
Lufthansa Technik’s decision to invest in Alberta builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in 2022 between WestJet and the Alberta government.
The facility is set to break ground in mid-2025, with completion expected by 2027.
