Espace Aéro

About Espace Aéro

Espace Aéro is Quebec's designated aerospace innovation zone, a government-backed initiative launched in May 2024 to position the province as a global leader in sustainable and intelligent air mobility. The project is governed by Aéro Montréal, the region's aerospace cluster, and was developed over four years through a collaboration of industry partners, academic institutions, and the cities of Longueuil, Mirabel, and Montréal.

The zone operates across three strategic hubs in Longueuil, Mirabel, and the Saint-Laurent borough of Montreal, leveraging the strengths of a region already recognized as one of the world's top three aerospace centers. Espace Aéro's primary mission is to accelerate the industry's transformation by fostering synergy among major contractors, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), research institutions, and emerging talent. It acts as a catalyst for collaborative projects, focusing on two main strategic priorities: the decarbonization of aerospace activities and the advancement of autonomous aircraft technologies. The decarbonization efforts involve developing more efficient aircraft, lighter structures, and cleaner propulsion systems, while the autonomy axis focuses on intelligent systems, remote control, and cybersecurity.

Espace Aéro is supported by significant financial commitments, including an initial C$415 million from public and private partners. This includes C$85 million from the Quebec government and major investments from key industry players. Notably, Boeing has committed C$110 million as part of an Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) package linked to Canada's procurement of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft, with funds directed toward R&D infrastructure and projects within the innovation zone. Other partners include Airbus, Bombardier, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and CAE. The zone will also host the Collaborative Aerospace and Mobility Innovation Center (CCIAM), a dedicated R&D facility backed by the Quebec government, Boeing, and leading universities like McGill, Concordia, and Polytechnique Montréal.