Test pilot school marks ‘significant new phase for aviation and defence activity in the region’
International Test Pilots School (ITPS) Canada is officially launching operations of its International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) in North Bay next month.
International Test Pilots School (ITPS) Canada is officially launching operations of its International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) in North Bay next month.
Officials say July 6 marks a significant new phase for aviation and defence activity in the region, with a dedicated training facility at Jack Garland Airport.
They say the operation is expected to initially support approximately 60 staff and bring instructors, students, and visiting military partners from allied nations into the community.
The centre will begin delivering advanced tactical aviation training.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for ITPS Canada,” says Dave Lohse, the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. “The relocation and expansion of ITTC reflects our commitment to supporting NATO and allied nations with world-class tactical flight training while strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader in military aviation training. With its world-class airport facilities, abundant airspace and proud military heritage, North Bay provides the ideal environment to build a next-generation training centre capable of preparing future fighter pilots for increasingly complex operational environments.”
Officials say North Bay was selected for its unique combination of strategic airspace, aviation infrastructure, military heritage, and community support.
They say the region offers access to uncongested training airspace, diverse weather conditions, and a location that enables pilots to train together in an operationally realistic environment alongside NATO, Five Eyes and allied air arms, enhancing interoperability and operational effectiveness.
“Modern air forces need training that is relevant to their operational requirements, adaptable to their specific needs and delivered to the standards they expect,” says Brendan Pierce, Vice President, Tactical Training, ITTC. “North Bay provides access to exceptional airspace, realistic weather conditions and the flexibility to build training programs that prepare pilots for the environments they will encounter throughout their careers. That’s a significant advantage only ITTC can offer our customers.”
Looking ahead, the company is also planning a larger purpose-built campus at the airport as part of a proposed $35 million expansion.
They say that could support up to 120–200 highly skilled jobs over time.
Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years. From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.
