Calgary's growing aerospace and defence sector has secured $500 million in new contracts in 2026, signaling the city's emergence as a serious hub for an industry that has traditionally been concentrated in Montreal and Winnipeg.
The contracts span military maintenance, commercial aircraft components, satellite systems, and drone technology. Major players include General Dynamics, L3Harris Technologies, and a cluster of homegrown startups in the drone and space technology sectors.
"Calgary has engineering talent, proximity to military bases, and a business-friendly environment," said Alberta Aerospace & Defence Association president Doug Chicken. "The sector has doubled in five years and we're just getting started."
The industry now employs approximately 4,500 people in the Calgary region, with average salaries exceeding $90,000. Many workers are energy sector engineers who have transitioned their skills to aerospace applications.
"The crossover between oil and gas engineering and aerospace is significant," said University of Calgary engineering dean Dr. Bill Rosehart. "Fluid dynamics, materials science, systems engineering — it's all transferable."
The Alberta government has supported the sector with a dedicated $25 million Aerospace and Technology Industries Grant, attracting companies that might otherwise have set up in Ontario or Quebec.
For aerospace companies and workers looking to connect with Calgary's broader business ecosystem, CalgaryFinder.com provides a comprehensive business directory spanning professional services, suppliers, and industry associations.
WestNet News covers Calgary's economic diversification story.
