GE Canada and StandardAero have signed an agreement to build a new $50 million aircraft engine research and technology development centre in Winnipeg. The centre is expected to initially employ 10 with the potential to grow to 50 employees within five years. The design and construction of the facility at the airport could employ up to 200 workers. The new centre will be built on land leased from the Winnipeg Airports Authority and operated by StandardAero. The facility will open later this year.
The aircraft engine research and technology development centre will develop advanced testing methodologies and equipment for GE Aviation’s commercial and military aircraft engines. The centre will include test cell capabilities for engines up to 150 inches in diameter and up to 150,000 lbs of thrust as well as capabilities to accommodate high performance military engines. It will be equipped with a large wind generator for crosswind, ingestion and icing certification testing.