A new chapter in Calgary’s aerospace story took off today as Lufthansa Technik (LHT), a global leader in aircraft maintenance and repair, officially broke ground on its $120 million Canadian headquarters and test cell facility at Calgary’s International Airport.
Lufthansa Technik’s investment anchors Calgary as a hub for innovative aviation services and a rising force in the global aerospace sector. With a central location, a deep pool of highly skilled talent, and a collaborative ecosystem, Calgary is fast becoming the go-to city for the world’s aerospace visionaries.
“Having Lufthansa Technik’s Canadian hub established in Calgary, showcases how our city is stepping up to deliver solutions for the global aerospace sector,” said Brad Parry, President and CEO of Calgary Economic Development and CEO of the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.
Blue-Sky thinking meets ground level execution
Bringing Lufthansa Technik to Calgary didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of years of strategic engagement, persistent collaboration, and a shared vision across industry, post-secondary institutions, and all levels of government.
“This facility represents not just a multi-million-dollar investment in infrastructure but also in the people and future of aviation in the region. Together with our local partners we aim to strengthen and grow Calgary’s aerospace ecosystem,” said Max Schramm, President and CEO of Lufthansa Technik Canada.
Calgary Economic Development played a pivotal role in showcasing the city’s value proposition, highlighting its competitive business climate, talent pipeline, and proximity to WestJet’s global hub at YYC Calgary International Airport.
“After years of hard work and collaboration to showcase our city and build connections with industry partners, we are excited to see Lufthansa Technik land in the Blue Sky City,” said Parry.
A strategic investment with global impact
LHT’s new Calgary operation will include a first-of-its-kind test cell facility in Canada, capable of testing next-generation engines and alternative fuels. This strategic investment enhances both operational efficiency and global R&D capacity, while also addressing critical capability gaps in the sector.
Supported by a $2.5 million investment from the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), this project will create up to 160 highly skilled jobs at Lufthansa Technik Canada by 2030. The first positions have already been filled, and an interim facility will open soon to begin operation ahead of the full site launch.
“With the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) strategically finding, fueling and fostering innovation, we’re committed to building a more resilient economy and creating opportunities for Calgarians in a sector that is poised for significant growth,” said Parry.
Future employees will also benefit from a modern, cutting-edge work environment designed to push industry standards, reinforcing Calgary’s reputation as a top destination for aerospace talent.
Investing in innovation, fueling the future
The new LHT facility adds to a growing list of OCIF’s strategic investments, including the Aerospace Innovation Hub and the Aerospace Composite Materials Lab at the Sothern Alberta Institute of Technology.
These investments are strengthening the city’s economy, creating jobs and helping scale homegrown and international aerospace companies — all while aligning every piece of the puzzle: education, innovation, logistics, and talent.
“With the support of OCIF, Calgary continues to cement itself as a destination for innovators and blue-sky thinkers,” said Parry. “This new facility builds on previous investments as part of our strategy to support talent development, scale companies and position Calgary as an aerospace innovation hub — creating jobs and strengthening economic resilience for our city and for future generations.”
And the numbers back it up: Alberta’s aerospace sector is projected to grow to $4.73 billion by 2030, with a workforce increase of nearly 60 per cent. Calgary is positioning itself at the heart of that growth.
Looking ahead
Lufthansa Technik’s investment adds long-term momentum for Calgary’s diversification and economic resilience.
As the shovels hit the ground and engines prepare for testing, the message is clear: Calgary is open for business, powered by innovation, and ready to lead on the global aerospace stage.