A Canadian Aerospace Forecasting Conference organized by AIAC and Industry Canada took place on May 13, 2009

A Canadian Aerospace Forecasting Conference organized by AIAC and Industry Canada took place on May 13, 2009 to shed light on the trends and opportunities facing Canadian firms in the commercial and defence markets. The conference featured speakers from the financial, academic and industry sectors.

The conference presentations indicated that while the sector is suffering from the current economic downturn, the recession will not fundamentally transform the industry or its markets. The Canadian aerospace sector, however, is increasingly challenged by new supply sources in engineering, manufacturing and MRO.

Participants highlighted that:

• The current credit crisis may significantly impact aerospace companies
• Growth, collaboration, diversification and pursuit of the right technologies are critical to survival
• Companies still manufacturing in Canada are probably strong and stable
• Decisive actions are needed to remain competitive
• Companies need to focus on future development programs

The conference also noted that Canada's key challenge is to properly position itself in the "outsourcing game" and that despite the downturn, Canada's aerospace sector is still a strong global competitor.

AIAC member companies can obtain a conference summary and featured presentations by communicating with Lucie Boily, lboily@aiac.ca or Maryse Harvey at mharvey@aiac.ca.

For information: Lucie Boily, (613) 760-4551, lboily@aiac.ca