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Supporting aerospace innovation in Ontario

Bombardier multi-million dollar contribution bolsters Ryerson aerospace research centre
July 17, 2018
Rendering of the proposed Downsview aerospace hub.

Photo: Rendering of the proposed Downsview aerospace hub.

A partnership between Bombardier and the Downsview Aerospace Innovation and Research Consortium (DAIR) is putting Ryerson at the centre of aerospace research.

Starting in 2019, Bombardier will contribute $1 million over five years for the creation of two aerospace research centres at Ryerson University and the University of Toronto, specializing in aircraft noise reduction and advanced cabin development. These centres are part of a multi-million dollar contribution from Bombardier and DAIR to establish an aerospace hub in Toronto’s Downsview area.

“This is a visionary investment from Bombardier,” said Thomas Duever, dean, Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science (FEAS). “Twenty-five years ago, Ryerson launched one of the first accredited aerospace engineering programs at a Canadian university. This announcement heralds a critical investment from Bombardier that will advance the expertise of Ryerson’s Cabin Interiors Research team.”

The contribution extends a longstanding relationship between Ryerson and Bombardier, including the company's early support for Ryerson's Centre for Labour Management Relations at TRSM and the Ryerson Institute for Aerospace Design and Innovation (RIADI) program for student co-op internships in FEAS.

The aerospace hub will focus on three main goals: supporting DAIR’s academic and research activities; supporting DAIR’s operations; and preserving the aerospace heritage of the site. Starting this year, Bombardier will provide $1.5 million over five years to fund core research at the Aeromaterials Research Centre, which will bring together industry and academic partners in a collaborative space. In addition, Bombardier will provide $900,000 over the next three years to support operations at the DAIR Innovation Centre.  

“This agreement is great news for Ontario’s aerospace industry and for the people of Toronto,” said François Caza, vice-president, product development and chief engineer, aerospace at Bombardier. “Since acquiring de Havilland in 1992, Bombardier has built strong relationships with local institutions to promote aerospace research and innovation. Through our new partnership with DAIR, we will continue to support the development of this unique ecosystem for many years to come.”

Finally, in recognition of Downsview’s historical importance in the development of the aerospace industry in Ontario, Bombardier will be providing a total of $2.5 million in capital funding to refurbish the heritage “Moth Building,” which will be the cornerstone of the DAIR Innovation Centre.

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