The federal government announced Thursday that it’s investing $1.3 million in Saskatchewan’s aviation and aerospace sectors.

The funding announced on Thursday will address the shortage of qualified pilots and boost aerospace manufacturing in the two major cities in Saskatchewan, according to the Government of Canada.

“Aviation plays a key role in economic success. Fueling business growth across Canada, including our vast rural and remote areas, depends on safe and secure access to air travel. Our government is investing in new training opportunities for pilots and innovative aerospace manufacturing to help meet the needs of all Canadians,” minister for PrairiesCan Terry Duguid said.

According to the Government of Canada, the investment will be divided among three recipients that includes the Regina Flying Club, Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Miccar Aerial Ltd.

The not-for-profit Regina Flying Club will get $250,000 to expand its commercial flight training program, upgrade training aircraft, and renovate classrooms and meeting areas.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Sask. Polytech) is receiving $450,000 to increase the efficiency of its Commercial Pilot program, including the purchase and installation of an ALSIM ALX Flight Simulator in Saskatoon.

Six hundred thousand dollars repayable funding will be given to Miccar Aerial Ltd to scale up business operations in Yorkton and launch a new replacement aircraft commuter seat, targeting air charter operators in Canada and the United States