CAE
What does CAE do?
CAE is the leading global training and simulation company developing solutions that prepare defence forces and aviation professionals for the moments that matter. CAE Australia Pty Ltd, was established by CAE in 1994 and is based in Homebush, New South Wales. As one of the key regional operations that make up CAE’s Defence and Security business unit, CAE Australia is focused on serving the Australian Defence Force (ADF), regional defence customers, and civil airlines.
Today, CAE Australia grown its significant presence to employ more than 300 highly skilled team members across 20 sites. CAE’s core strengths are in training solutions, leading-edge simulation technology, and engineering and operational support services.
Some of the major defence programs led by CAE Australia include:
- Australian Defence Force Aerospace Simulator Integrated Support and Training (ASIST) Program
- C-130J training systems & services at RAAF Richmond
- C-27J and KC-30A training systems & services at RAAF Amberley
- CH-47F training services at RAAF Townsville
- Hawk 127 training systems & services at RAAF Pearce & RAAF Williamtown
- MH-60R Seahawk training services at Nowra
- KA350 King Air training systems & services at RAAF East Sale
- Navy Platform & Systems Training at Randwick Barracks and HMAS Waterhen
While CAE plays a critical role in supporting Australia’s defence training needs, we are equally committed to shaping the next generation of civil aviation professionals. CAE Melbourne Flight Training, located at Moorabbin Airport, is one of Victoria’s most trusted providers of commercial pilot training. In partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, the academy offers airline cadet programs and tailored pathways for aspiring pilots, helping students gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed for a successful career in aviation.
What activities can CAE offer?
CAE is open to hosting visits (where timing and logistics are mutually agreeable). Depending on the location and facility, these visits may include some or all of the following:
- An introduction to CAE’s simulation and training operations
- Tours of facilities (Innovation Centre, flight simulators, training aircraft hangars, classrooms)
- Overview of career pathways at CAE, including entry requirements
- Specific insight into pilot training programs (e.g., CAE Melbourne’s airline cadet training, MCC training, CPL with MECIR program)
Where can they offer activities?
Some of the main CAE sites in Australia where these activities are most feasible include:
- Sydney (Homebush) — CAE’s Australian headquarters and a major hub for simulation, engineering, and defence training technology hosted at the Innovation Centre.
- Melbourne — CAE Melbourne Flight Training provides a range of civil aviation courses, certificates, and licences from PPL through to ATPL. Its flagship integrated Commercial Pilot Licence + Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (CPL with MECIR) program delivers the essential training and qualifications required to begin a professional pilot career. This program also incorporates Night VFR (NVFR) training and Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) to strengthen skills and align training outcomes with airline and industry standards.
- Perth — The CAE Airline Training Centre, with multiple full-flight simulators (FFS), supporting training for cadets and airline crews across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. At full capacity, this centre can train up to 2,000 pilots and crew annually.
- Other Locations — In addition to these, CAE maintains a presence at numerous ADF bases across Australia, where it delivers simulation, training, and support services tailored to Defence requirements. With planning conducted around training schedules, CAE can work with onsite customers to help facilitate tours and support events.