Boeing announces $240 million CAD investment in Quebec aerospace, including $95 million for Wisk and its autonomous eVTOL aircraft
Boeing is to invest $240 million CAD in several Québec-based enterprises, which includes $95 million dedicated to advancing Wisk’s autonomous, four-seater eVTOL aircraft.
The investment, which was announced yesterday (Tuesday), also includes a $110 million CAD anchor investment for an Aerospace Development Centre in the new Espace Aero Innovation Zone and a $35 million CAD investment to advanced landing gear research in partnership with Héroux-Devtek.
Dr. Brendan Nelson AO, President of Boeing Global, said: “Quebec’s aerospace capabilities are recognized worldwide, and we are excited to partner with the province on new initiatives that will generate cutting-edge technologies, drive economic growth and support decarbonisation of aviation.”
“These investments serve as a testament to Canada’s aviation leadership and exemplify Boeing’s unwavering commitment to the country, where we have been driving innovation and fostering collaboration across the nation for over a century.”
Sebastien Vigneron, Wisk’s Senior Vice President of Engineering and Programs, added: “Boeing’s continued support of our Montreal engineering hub is a testament to the important work we’re already doing here in Canada.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to expand our team, tap further into the exceptional aerospace talent in Québec, and bring us one step closer to making our mission of bringing safe, everyday flight to everyone a reality.”
The investments are part of Boeing’s Industrial and Technological Benefits commitment to Canada for its selection of Boeing’s P‑8A Poseidon to fulfill its long-term multi-mission aircraft role.
Recognizing that Espace Aéro seeks to foster a culture of collaboration, with a mission to advance sustainable aerospace in Canada, Boeing is assessing additional projects to locate in Espace Aéro, aligned with the zone’s technology development priorities of decarbonization and autonomy.
Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, said: “Today’s announcement is all about Canada’s economic benefits policy at work. It’s not just about procuring Boeing’s P‑8 Poseidon.
“With this state-of-the-art Aerospace Development Centre, Canada will also benefit from Boeing’s strategic investments in leading Canadian firms. Coupled with Québec‘s Innovation Zone, this will attract top-tier industry players, creating good jobs and countless opportunities.”
Click here to watch a video of Guillaume Beauchamp, Wisk’s Senior Director of Aircraft Development in Montreal, who spoke to eVTOL Insights’ Executive Editor Jason Pritchard at the company’s North American Conference earlier this month.