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NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

General Information About Financial Statements [Abstract]

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Part I of the CPA Canada Handbook – Accounting and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for the following items measured at fair value: contingent consideration, derivative financial instruments, financial instruments at fair value through profit and loss, available-for-sale financial assets and liabilities for cash-settled share-based arrangements.

Functional currency

The functional and presentation currency of CAE Inc. is the Canadian dollar.

Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Company has control. Control exists when the Company is exposed to, or has the rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through the power over the entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date control is obtained and they are no longer consolidated on the date control ceases. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Joint arrangements

Joint arrangements are arrangements in which the Company exercises joint control as established by contracts requiring unanimous consent for decisions about the activities that significantly affect the arrangement’s returns. When the Company has the rights to the net assets of the arrangement, the arrangement is classified as a joint venture and is accounted for using the equity method. When the Company has rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities relating to an arrangement, the arrangement is classified as a joint operation and the Company accounts for each of its assets, liabilities and transactions, including its share of those held or incurred jointly, in relation to the joint operation.

Under the equity method of accounting, interests in joint ventures are initially recognized at cost and adjusted thereafter to recognize the Company’s share of the profits or losses and movements in other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) of the investee. When the Company’s share of losses in a joint venture equals or exceeds its interests in the joint ventures, the Company does not recognize further losses, unless it will incur obligations or make payments on behalf of the joint ventures.

Unrealized gains resulting from transactions with joint ventures are eliminated, to the extent of the Company’s share in the joint venture. For sales of products or services from the Company to its joint ventures, the elimination of unrealized profits is considered in the carrying value of the investment in equity accounted investees in the consolidated statement of financial position and in the share in profit or loss of equity accounted investees in the consolidated income statement.

Business combinations

Business combinations are accounted for in accordance with the acquisition method. The consideration transferred and the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are measured at their fair value. Depending on the complexity of determining these valuations, the Company either consults with independent experts or develops the fair value internally by using appropriate valuation techniques which are generally based on a forecast of the total expected future net discounted cash flows. These evaluations are linked closely to the assumptions made by management regarding the future performance of the related assets and the discount rate. Contingent consideration is measured at fair value using a discounted cash flow model.

Business combinations

Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary is the fair value of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred and the equity interests issued by the Company, if any, at the date control is obtained. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Acquisition-related costs, other than share and debt issue costs incurred to issue financial instruments that form part of the consideration transferred, are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair value at the acquisition date. If a business combination is achieved in stages, the Company remeasures its previously held interest in the acquiree at its acquisition-date fair value and recognizes the resulting gain or loss, if any, in net income.

Contingent consideration classified as a long-term liability is measured at fair value, with subsequent changes recognized in income. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity, it is not remeasured until it is finally settled within equity.

New information obtained during the measurement period, up to 12 months following the acquisition date, about facts and circumstances existing at the acquisition date affect the acquisition accounting.

Non-controlling interests

Non-controlling interests (NCI) represent equity interests in subsidiaries owned by outside parties. The share of net assets of subsidiaries attributable to non-controlling interests is presented as a component of equity. Changes in the Company’s ownership interest in subsidiaries that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions.

The Company treats transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with equity owners of the Company. For interests purchased from non-controlling interests, the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary is recorded in equity. Gains or losses on disposals of non-controlling interests are also recorded in equity.

Financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity. Financial assets and financial liabilities, including derivatives, are recognized on the consolidated statement of financial position when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument. On initial recognition, all financial instruments are measured at fair value. When there is a difference between the fair value of the consideration given or received at initial recognition and the amount determined using a valuation technique, such difference is recognized immediately in income unless it qualifies for recognition as some other type of asset or liability.

Subsequent measurement of the financial instruments is based on their classification as described below. The determination of the classification depends on the purpose for which the financial instruments were acquired and their characteristics. Except in very limited circumstances, the classification is not changed subsequent to the initial recognition.

Financial instruments at fair value through profit and loss

Financial instruments classified at fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL) are carried at fair value at each reporting date with the change in fair value recorded in income. The FVTPL classification is applied when a financial instrument:

– Is a derivative, including embedded derivatives accounted for separately from the host contract, but excluding those derivatives designated as effective hedging instruments;

– Has been acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near future;

– Is part of a portfolio of financial instruments that are managed together and for which there is evidence of a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or

– Has been irrevocably designated as such by the Company (fair value option).

Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, contingent consideration assumed in a business combination and all derivative instruments, except for derivatives designated as effective hedging instruments, are classified at FVTPL.

Embedded derivatives are recorded at FVTPL separately from the host contract when their economic characteristics and risks are not clearly and closely related to those of the host contract.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Interest income or expense is included in income in the period as incurred. Accounts receivable, contracts in progress, non-current receivables and advances are classified as loans and receivables except for those that the Company intends to sell immediately or in the near term, which are classified at FVTPL.

At each reporting date, the carrying amounts of the financial assets other than those to be measured at FVTPL are assessed to determine whether there is objective evidence of impairment. Impairment losses on financial assets carried at amortized cost are reversed in subsequent periods if the amount of loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment was recognized.

Available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale

Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale or that are not classified in any of the preceding categories. The portfolio investments are classified as available-for-sale.

Financial assets classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value at each reporting date. Unrealized gains and losses, including changes in foreign exchange rates for non-monetary financial assets, are recognized in OCI in the period in which the changes arise and are transferred to income when the assets are derecognized or impairment occurs. Objective evidence of impairment of an equity investment includes a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the security below its cost. If a reliable estimate of the fair value of an unquoted equity instrument cannot be made, this instrument is measured at cost, less any impairment losses. Dividends are recognized in income when the right of payment has been established.

Other financial liabilities

Other financial liabilities are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and long-term debt, including interest payable, as well as finance lease obligations and royalty obligations are classified as other financial liabilities.

Transaction costs

Transaction costs that are directly related to the acquisition or issuance of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than those classified at FVTPL) are included in the fair value initially recognized for those financial instruments. These costs are amortized to income using the effective interest method.

Offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is presented in the consolidated statement of financial position when the Company has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and intends to settle on a net basis or to realize the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

Fair value hierarchy transfers

For financial instruments that are recognized at fair value on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the fair value hierarchy. The assessment is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole at the end of each period.

Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting

Derivative financial instruments offering economic hedging without being eligible for hedge accounting are accounted for at FVTPL.

Documentation

At the inception of a hedge, if the Company elects to use hedge accounting, the Company formally documents the designation of the hedge, the risk management objectives and strategy, the hedging relationship between the hedged item and hedging item and the method for testing the effectiveness of the hedge, which must be reasonably assured over the term of the hedging relationship and can be reliably measured. The Company formally assesses, both at inception of the hedge relationship and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items in relation to the hedged risk.

Cash flow hedge

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognized in OCI, while the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in income. Amounts accumulated in OCI are reclassified to income in the period in which the hedged item affects income. However, when the forecasted transactions that are hedged items result in recognition of non-financial assets (for example, inventories or property, plant and equipment), gains and losses previously recognized in OCI are included in the initial carrying value of the related non-financial assets acquired or liabilities incurred. The deferred amounts are ultimately recognized in income as the related non-financial assets are derecognized or amortized.

Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively when the hedging relationship no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, when the designation is revoked, or when the hedging instrument expires or is sold. Any cumulative gain or loss directly recognized in OCI at that time remains in OCI until the hedged item is eventually recognized in income. When it is probable that a hedged transaction will not occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was recognized in OCI is recognized immediately in income.

Hedge of net investments in foreign operations

The Company has designated certain long-term debts as a hedging item of CAE’s overall net investments in foreign operations whose activities are denominated in a currency other than the Company’s functional currency. The portion of gains or losses on the hedging item that is determined to be an effective hedge is recognized in OCI and is limited to the translation gain or loss on the net investment.

Derecognition of financial instruments

Derecognition

Financial assets

A financial asset (or, where applicable a part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is derecognized when:


–	The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired;


–	The Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset and either has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset or has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset;

–

The Company is involved in a program in which it sells interests in certain of its accounts receivable. The Company continues to act as a collection agent. Under the program the Company transfers some significant risks and rewards of the accounts receivable it sells and retains others. The accounts receivable are derecognized up to an amount corresponding to the extent of the Company's continuing involvement, which represents its maximum retained exposure.

Financial liabilities

A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires.

When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability, and the difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognized in income.

Foreign currency translation

Foreign operations

Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries that have a functional currency other than the Canadian dollar are translated from their functional currency to Canadian dollars at exchange rates in effect at the reporting date. Revenue and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are included in OCI.

When a Company has a long-term intercompany balance receivable from or payable to a foreign operation for which settlement is not planned in the foreseeable future, such item is considered, in substance, a part of the Company’s net investment in that foreign operation. Gains or losses arising from the translation of those intercompany balances denominated in foreign currencies are also included in OCI.

Transactions and balances

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the prevailing exchange rate at the reporting date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities, and revenue and expense items denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rate prevailing at the dates of the respective transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions are recognized in income, except when deferred in OCI as qualifying cash flow hedges and qualifying net investment hedges.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly-liquid investments with original terms to maturity of 90 days or less at the date of purchase

Accounts receivable

Receivables are initially recognized at fair value and are subsequently carried at amortized cost, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts, based on expected recoverability. The amount of the allowance is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The loss is recognized in income. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously provided for or written-off are recognized in income.

Inventories

Raw materials are valued at the lower of average cost and net realizable value. Spare parts to be used in the normal course of business are valued at the lower of cost, determined on a specific identification basis, and net realizable value.

Work in progress is stated at the lower of cost, determined on a specific identification basis, and net realizable value. The cost of work in progress includes material, labour and an allocation of manufacturing overhead, which is based on normal operating capacity.

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to generate revenue. In the case of raw materials and spare parts, the replacement cost is the best measure of net realizable value.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less any accumulated depreciation and any accumulated net impairment losses. Costs include expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition or manufacturing of the item. The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment that is initially recognized includes, when applicable, the initial present value estimate of the costs required to dismantle and remove the asset and restore the site on which it is located at the end of its useful life. Purchased software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is capitalized as part of that equipment. Subsequent costs, such as updates on training devices, are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset only when it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be reliably measured; otherwise, they are expensed.

A loss on disposal is recognized in income when the carrying value of a replaced item is derecognized, unless the item is transferred to inventories. If it is not practicable to determine the carrying value, the cost of the replacement and the accumulated depreciation calculated by reference to that cost will be used to derecognize the replaced part. The costs of day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognized in income as incurred. Gains and losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with its carrying amount, and are recognized net within other gains and losses.

The different components of property, plant and equipment are recognized separately when their useful lives are materially different and such components are depreciated separately in income. Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives. If it is reasonably certain that the Company will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the leased asset is depreciated over its useful life. Land is not depreciated. The estimated useful lives, residual values and depreciation methods are as follows:



	Method	Amortization rate/period
Buildings and improvements	Straight-line	2.5 to 10%/3 to 40 years
Simulators	Straight-line (10% residual)	Not exceeding 25 years
Machinery and equipment	Declining balance/Straight-line	20 to 35%/2 to 10 years
Aircraft	Straight-line (residual not exceeding 15%)	Not exceeding 25 years
Aircraft engines	Based on utilization	Not exceeding 3,500 hours

Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, on a prospective basis at each reporting date.

Leases

The classification as either finance or operating lease is based on management’s judgement of the application of criteria provided in IAS 17 – Leases and on the substance of the lease arrangement. Most of the Company’s arrangements accounted for as operating leases are in relation to buildings and flight simulators. With regards to certain aircraft used in the Company’s live training operations, management has concluded that the undiscounted lease rental payments in the amount of $119.4 million (2017 - $192.3 million) associated with the lease convention to these aircraft should be accounted for as an off balance sheet arrangement as it is offset by a reciprocal arrangement with a third party and is non-recourse to CAE.

Leases

The Company leases certain property, plant and equipment from and to others. Leases in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred are classified as finance leases. All other leases are accounted for as operating leases.

The Company as a lessor

With regards to finance leases, the asset is derecognized at the commencement of the lease. The net present value of the minimum lease payments and any discounted unguaranteed residual value are recognized as non‑current receivables. Finance income is recognized over the term of the lease based on the effective interest method. Income from operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the corresponding lease.

The Company as a lessee

Finance leases are capitalized at the lease’s commencement at the lower of the fair value of the leased item and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Any initial direct costs of the lessee are added to the amount recognized as an asset. The corresponding obligations are included in long-term debt. Finance expense is recognized over the term of the lease based on the effective interest method. Payments made under operating leases are charged to income on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Sale and leaseback transactions

The Company engages in sales and leaseback transactions as part of the Company’s financing strategy to support investment in the Civil Aviation training Solutions and Defence and Security segments. Where a sale and leaseback transaction results in a finance lease, any excess of sales proceeds over the carrying amount is deferred and amortized over the lease term. Where a sale and leaseback transaction results in an operating lease, and it is clear that the transaction is established at fair value, any profit or loss is recognized in income. If the sales price is below fair value, the shortfall is recognized in income immediately except if the loss is compensated for by future lease payments at below market price, it is deferred and amortized in proportion to the lease payments over the period the asset is expected to be used. If the sale price is above fair value, the excess over fair value is deferred and amortized over the period the asset is expected to be used.

Goodwill

Goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses, if any.

Goodwill arises on the acquisition of subsidiaries. Goodwill represents the excess of the aggregate of the cost of an acquisition, including the Company’s best estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration and the acquisition-date fair value of any previous held equity interest in the acquiree, over the fair value of the net identifiable assets of the acquiree at the acquisition date.

Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

Research and development

Development costs

Development costs are recognized as intangible assets and are amortized over their useful lives when they meet the criteria for capitalization. Forecasted revenue and profitability for the relevant projects are used to assess compliance with the capitalization criteria and to assess the recoverable amount of the assets.

Research and development (R&D)

Research costs are expensed as incurred. Development costs are also charged to income in the period incurred unless they meet all the specific capitalization criteria established in IAS 38, Intangible Assets. Capitalized development costs are stated at cost and net of accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Amortization of the capitalized development costs commences when the asset is available for use and is included in research and development expense.

Other intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured at cost upon initial recognition. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is the fair value as at the acquisition date. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost, net of accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any.

The cost of an internally generated intangible asset comprises all directly attributable costs necessary to create, produce, and prepare the asset to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.

Gains and losses on disposal of intangible assets are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with its carrying amount and are recognized within other gains and losses.

Amortization

Amortization is calculated using the straight-line method for all intangible assets over their estimated useful lives as follows:



	Amortization period
	(in years)
Capitalized development costs	5 to 10
Customer relationships	3 to 20
ERP and other software	3 to 10
Technology	3 to 10
Other intangible assets	2 to 40

Amortization methods and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, on a prospective basis at each reporting date.

Impairment of non-financial assets

The Company’s impairment test for goodwill is based on internal estimates of fair value less costs of disposal calculations and uses valuation models such as the discounted cash flows model (level 3). Key assumptions which management has based its determination of fair value less costs of disposal include estimated growth rates, post-tax discount rates and tax rates. These estimates, including the methodology used, can have a material impact on the respective values and ultimately the amount of any goodwill impairment.

Likewise, whenever property, plant and equipment and intangible assets are tested for impairment, the determination of the assets’ recoverable amount involves the use of estimates by management and can have a material impact on the respective values and ultimately the amount of any impairment.

Impairment of non-financial assets

The carrying amounts of the Company’s non-financial assets subject to amortization are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Goodwill and assets that are not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually or at any time if an indicator of impairment exists.

The recoverable amount of an asset or a cash-generating unit (CGU) is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs of disposal. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset; unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. In such case, the CGU that the asset belongs to is used to determine the recoverable amount.

For the purposes of impairment testing, the goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated to CGUs or groups of CGUs, which generally corresponds to its operating segments or one level below, that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the acquiree are assigned to those units.

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Where the recoverable amount of a CGU to which goodwill has been allocated is lower than the CGU’s carrying amount, the related goodwill is impaired. Any remaining amount of impairment exceeding the impaired goodwill is recognized on a pro rata basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the respective CGU. Impairment losses are recognized in income.

The Company evaluates impairment losses, other than goodwill impairment, for potential reversals at each reporting date. An impairment loss is reversed if there is any indication that the loss has decreased or no longer exists due to changes in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognized. Such reversal is recognized in income.

Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of a qualifying asset are capitalized as part of the cost of the asset. A qualifying asset is one that takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use. Capitalization of borrowing costs ceases when the asset is completed and ready for its intended use. All other borrowing costs are recognized as finance expense in income, as incurred.

Restricted cash

The Company is required to hold a defined amount of cash as collateral under the terms of certain subsidiaries’ external bank financing, government-related sales contracts and business combination arrangements.

Deferred financing costs

Deferred financing costs related to the revolving unsecured term credit facilities, when it is probable that some or all of the facilities will be drawn down, and deferred financing costs related to sale and leaseback agreements are included in other assets at cost and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related financing agreements.

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Provisions

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation and the amount can be reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognized for future operating losses. Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to passage of time is recognized as a finance expense. When there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole.

Long-term debt

Long-term debt is recognized initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. They are subsequently stated at amortized cost. Any difference between the proceeds, net of transaction costs, and the redemption value is recognized in income over the period of borrowings using the effective interest method.

Fees paid on the establishment of loan facilities are recognized as transaction costs of the loan to the extent that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down. In these cases, the fee is deferred until the drawdown occurs. To the extent that there is no evidence that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down, the fee is capitalized as a pre-payment for liquidity services and amortized over the period of the facility to which it relates.

Share capital

Common shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

When share capital recognized as equity is repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid, which includes directly attributable costs, net of tax, is recognized as a deduction from equity.

Revenue recognition

The percentage-of-completion method requires the Company to estimate the work performed to date as a proportion of the total work to be performed. Management conducts monthly reviews of its estimated costs to complete, percentage-of-completion estimates and revenue and margins recognized, on a contract-by-contract basis. The impact of any revisions in cost and revenue estimates is reflected in the period in which the need for a revision becomes known.

Revenue recognition

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Revenue is recognized when the amount can be reliably measured, when it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Company and when specific criteria have been met for each of the categories, as described below.

Multiple component arrangements

The Company sometimes enters into multiple component revenue arrangements, which may include a combination of design, engineering and manufacturing of flight simulators and other products, as well as the provision of training services, spare parts and maintenance. When a single sales transaction requires the delivery of more than one product or service (multiple components), the revenue recognition criteria are applied to the separately identifiable components. A component is considered separately identifiable if the delivered item has value to the customer on a stand-alone basis and the fair value associated with the product or service can be reliably measured.

The allocation of the revenue from a multiple component arrangement is based on the fair value of each element in relation to the fair value of the arrangement as a whole.

The Company's revenues can be divided into two main accounting categories: construction contracts and sales of goods and services.

Construction contracts

A construction contract is a contract specifically negotiated for the construction of an asset or of a group of assets, which are interrelated in terms of their design, technology, function, purpose or use. According to its characteristics, a construction contract can be accounted for separately, be segmented into several components which are each accounted for separately, or be combined with another construction contract in order to form a single construction contract for accounting purposes in respect of which revenues and expense will be recognized.

Revenue from construction contracts for the design, engineering and manufacturing of specifically designed training devices is recognized using the percentage-of-completion method when it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the contract will flow to the Company, the revenue, contract costs to complete and the stage of contract completion at the end of the reporting period can be reliably measured and when the contract costs can be clearly identified and reliably measured so that actual contract costs incurred can be compared with prior estimates. The stage of completion is measured by reference to the contract costs incurred up to the end of the reporting period as a percentage of total estimated costs for each contract. When the criteria to use the percentage-of-completion method are not met, construction contract revenue is recognized to the extent of the contract costs incurred that are likely to be recoverable.

Provisions for estimated contract losses are recognized in the period in which the loss is determined. Contract losses are measured at the amount by which the estimated total costs exceed the estimated total revenue from the contract. Warranty provisions are recorded when revenue is recognized based on past experience.

The cumulative amount of costs incurred and profit recognized, reduced by losses and progress billing, is determined on a contract-by-contract basis. If this amount is positive it is classified in contracts in progress: assets. If this amount is negative it is classified in contracts in progress: liabilities.

Post-delivery customer support is billed separately, and revenue is recognized over the support period.

Sales of goods and services

Standardized training devices

Revenue from contracts for the construction of standardized training devices is recognized primarily on the training devices’ date of completion when the significant risks and rewards of ownership associated to the training devices are transferred to the customer and the Company retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the training devices sold.

Software arrangements

Revenue from off-the-shelf software sales is recognized when delivery has occurred. Revenue from fixed-price software arrangements and software customization contracts that require significant production, modification, or customization of software is recognized using the percentage-of-completion method.

Spare parts

Revenue from the sale of spare parts is primarily recognized upon shipment to the customer. Upon shipment, the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods are transferred and the Company retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold.

Product maintenance

Revenue from maintenance contracts is generally recognized on the basis of the percentage-of-completion of the transaction.

Training and consulting services

Revenue from training and consulting services is recognized as the services are rendered.

For flight schools, cadet training courses are offered mainly by way of ground school and live aircraft flight. During the ground school phase, revenue is recognized in income on a straight-line basis, while during the live aircraft flight phase, revenue is recognized based on actual flight hours.

Other

Sales incentives to customers

The Company may provide sales incentives in the form of discounts and volume rebates, these incentives are recorded as a reduction of revenues.

Non-monetary transactions

The Company may also enter into sales arrangements where little or no monetary consideration is involved. The non-monetary transactions are measured at the more reliable measure of the fair value of the asset given up and fair value of the asset received.

Deferred revenue

Cash payments received or advances currently due pursuant to contractual arrangements, with the exception of those related to construction contracts, are recorded as deferred revenue until all of the foregoing conditions of revenue recognition have been met.

Employee benefits

Defined benefit pension plans

The Company maintains defined benefit pension plans that provide benefits based on length of service and final average earnings.

The defined benefit asset or liability comprises the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the reporting date less the fair value of plan assets out of which the obligations are to be settled. The defined benefit obligations are actuarially determined for each plan using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash flows using the interest rate of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefit will be paid and that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related pension obligation. In countries where there is no deep market in such bonds, the market rates on government bonds are used.

The value of any employee benefit asset recognized is restricted to the present value of any economic benefits available in the form of refunds from the plan or reductions in the future contributions to the plan (asset ceiling test). Minimum funding requirements may give rise to an additional liability to the extent that they require paying contributions to cover an existing shortfall. Plan assets can only be used to fund employee benefits, are not available to the creditors of the Company, nor can they be paid directly to the Company. Fair value of plan assets is based on market price information.

The Company determines the net pension cost of its Canadian defined benefit plans utilizing individual discount rates derived from the yield curve. For the other defined benefit plans, the Company utilises a single weighted average discount rate derived from the yield curve.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments, changes in actuarial assumptions and the effect of any asset ceiling and minimum liability are recognized to OCI in the period in which they arise. Past service costs are recognized as an expense as incurred at the earlier of when the plan amendment or curtailment occurs and when the entity recognizes related termination benefits.

Defined contribution pension plans

The Company also maintains defined contribution plans for which the Company pays fixed contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans on a mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. The Company has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay the benefits to all employees. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognized as an employee benefit expense in income as the services are provided.

Defined benefit pension plans

The cost of defined benefit pension plans and the present value of the employee benefit obligations are determined using actuarial valuations. Actuarial valuations involve, amongst others, making assumptions about discount rates, future salary increases and mortality rates. All assumptions are reviewed at each reporting date. Any changes in these assumptions will impact the carrying amount of the employee benefit obligations and the cost of the defined benefit pension plans. In determining the appropriate discount rate, management considers the interest rates of high quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related pension liability. The mortality rate is based on publicly available mortality tables for the specific country. Future salary increases and pension increases are based on expected future inflation rates for the specific country. Individual discount rates are derived from the yield curve and are used to determine the service cost and interest cost of the Canadian defined benefit pension plans at the beginning of the year. The present value of the employee benefit obligations for these Canadian plans is determined based on the individual discount rates derived from the yield curve at the end of the year.

Other key assumptions for pension obligations are based, in part, on current market conditions.

Termination benefits

Termination benefits are recognized as an expense when the Company is demonstrably committed, without realistic possibility of withdrawal, to a formal detailed plan to either terminate employment before the normal retirement date, or to provide termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy. Termination benefits for voluntary redundancies are recognized as an expense, if the Company has made an offer of voluntary redundancy, based on the number of employees expected to accept the offer. Benefits falling due more than 12 months after the reporting date are discounted to their present value.

Share-based payment transactions

The Company’s share-based payment plans consist of two categories: an equity-settled share-based payment plan comprised of the Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP); and cash-settled share-based payments plans that include the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), the Executive Deferred Share Unit (EDSU) plan, the Deferred Share Unit (DSU) plan, the Long-Term Incentive Time Based plans and the Long-Term Incentive Performance Based plans. The Long-Term Incentive – Deferred Share Unit (LTI-DSU) plan and the Long-Term Incentive – Time Based Restricted Share Unit (LTI-TB RSU) plan are time based plans while the Long-Term Incentive – Restricted Share Unit (LTI-RSU) plan and the Long-Term Incentive – Performance Share Unit (LTI-PSU) plan are performance based plans.

For both categories, the fair value of the employee services received in exchange is recognized as an expense in income. Service and non-market performance conditions attached to the transactions are not taken into account in determining fair value.

For the equity-settled plan, the cost of equity-settled transactions is measured at fair value using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The compensation expense is measured at the grant date and recognized over the service period with a corresponding increase to contributed surplus. The cumulative expenses recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date represents the extent to which the vesting period has expired and management’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. For options with graded vesting, each tranche is considered a separate grant with a different vesting date and fair value, and each tranche is accounted for separately. When the options are exercised, the Company issues new shares and the proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital.

For cash-settled plans, a corresponding liability is recognized. The fair value of employee services received is calculated by multiplying the number of units expected to vest with the fair value of one unit as of grant date based on the market price of the Company’s common shares. The fair value of the ESPP is a function of the Company’s contributions. Until the liability is settled, the Company re-measures the fair value of the liability at the end of each reporting period and at the date of settlement, with any changes in fair value recognized in income for the period. The Company has entered into equity swap agreements with two major Canadian financial institutions in order to reduce its earnings exposure related to the fluctuation in the Company’s share price relating to the EDSU, DSU, LTI-DSU and LTI-TB RSU programs.

Share-based payments

The Company measures the cost of cash and equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the fair value of the related instruments at the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair value for share-based payments requires determining the most appropriate valuation model for a grant, which depends on the terms and conditions of the grant. This also requires making assumptions and determining the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the option, volatility and dividend yield.

Income tax

Current and deferred income tax

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. An income tax expense is recognized in income except to the extent that it relates to items recognized in OCI or directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in OCI or directly in equity, respectively.

Current tax is the amount expected to be paid or recovered from taxation authorities on the taxable income or loss for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date in the countries where the Company and its subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income, and any adjustment to tax payable or receivable in respect of previous years.

Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes provisions, where appropriate, on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred tax is recognized using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences between the tax bases of assets or liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, and jointly controlled entities, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the Company and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences and carry forward of unused tax losses. The recognition of deferred tax assets are limited to the amount which is probable to be realized.

Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that a recognized deferred tax asset will be realized. Unrecognized deferred tax assets are reassessed at each reporting date and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that an unrecognized deferred tax asset will be realized.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different taxable entities which intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or if their tax assets and liabilities will be realized simultaneously.

Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued by jurisdiction using the effective tax rate that would be applicable to expected total annual profit or loss of the jurisdiction.

Income taxes

The Company is subject to income tax laws in numerous jurisdictions. Judgement is required in determining the worldwide provision for income taxes. The determination of tax liabilities and assets involves uncertainties in the interpretation of complex tax regulations. The Company provides for potential tax liabilities based on the weighted average probability of the possible outcomes. Differences between actual results and those estimates could have an effect on the income tax liabilities and deferred tax liabilities in the period in which such determinations are made.

Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against the losses that can be utilized. Significant management judgement is required to determine the amount of deferred tax assets that can be recognized, based upon the likely timing and the level of future taxable profits together with future tax planning strategies. The recorded amount of total deferred tax assets could be altered if estimates of projected future taxable income and benefits from available tax strategies are lowered, or if changes in current tax regulations are enacted that impose restrictions on the timing or extent of the Company’s ability to utilize future tax benefits.

Investment tax credits

Investment tax credits (ITCs) arising from R&D activities are deducted from the related costs and are accordingly included in the determination of net income when there is reasonable assurance that the credits will be realized. ITCs arising from the acquisition or development of property, plant and equipment and capitalized development costs are deducted from the cost of those assets with amortization calculated on the net amount. Investment tax credits expected to be recovered beyond 12 months are classified in Other assets.

Earnings per share

Earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net income for the period attributable to the common shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding is calculated by taking into account the dilution that would occur if the securities or other agreements for the issuance of common shares were exercised or converted into common shares at the later of the beginning of the period or the issuance date unless it is anti-dilutive. The treasury stock method is used to determine the dilutive effect of the stock options. The treasury stock method is a method of recognizing the use of proceeds that could be obtained upon the exercise of options in computing diluted earnings per share. It assumes that any proceeds would be used to purchase common shares at the average market price during the period. Only the Company’s stock options have a dilutive potential on common shares.

Government participation

Government contributions are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the contributions will be received and all attached conditions will be complied with by the Company. Government participation related to the acquisition of intangible assets is recorded as a reduction of the cost of the related asset while government participation related to current expenses is recorded as a reduction of the related expenses.

The Company benefits from investment tax credits that are deemed to be equivalent to government contributions. Contributions are received for Project New Core Markets from Investissement Québec (IQ) for costs incurred in R&D programs. Contributions were received in previous fiscal years for Project Phoenix from Industry Canada under the Technology Partnerships Canada (TPC) program and from IQ.

Project New Core Markets and Project Phoenix require the Company to pay royalties. The obligation to pay royalties, recognized as royalty obligations, is recorded when the contribution is receivable and is estimated based on future projections. The obligation is discounted using the prevailing market rates of interest, at that time, for a similar instrument (similar as to currency, term, type of interest rate, guarantees or other factors) with a similar credit rating. The current portion is included as part of accrued liabilities. The difference between government contributions and the discounted value of royalty obligations is accounted for as a government participation which is recognized as a reduction of related expenses or as a reduction of the cost of the related asset.

The Company recognizes the Government of Canada’s participation in Project Falcon and Project Innovate as interest-bearing long-term debt. The initial measurement of the accounting liability is discounted using the prevailing market rates of interest, at that time, for a similar instrument (similar as to currency, term, type of interest rate, guarantees or other factors) with a similar credit rating. The difference between the face value of the long-term obligation and the discounted value of the long-term obligation is accounted for as a government contribution which is recognized as a reduction of costs or as a reduction of capitalized expenditures.

Use of judgements, estimates and assumptions

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires the Company’s management (management) to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the period reported. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a high degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed below. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Changes will be reported in the period in which they are identified.

Government royalty repayments

In determining the amount of repayable government royalties, assumptions and estimates are made in relation to discount rates, expected revenues and the expected timing of revenues. Revenue projections take into account past experience and represent management’s best estimate about the future. Revenues after a five-year period are extrapolated using estimated growth rates, ranging from 6% to 15%, over the period of repayments. The estimated repayments are discounted using average rates ranging from 6% to 10% based on terms of similar financial instruments. These estimates, along with the methodology used to derive the estimates, can have a material impact on the respective values and ultimately any repayable obligation in relation to government participation. A 1% increase to the growth rates would increase the royalty obligation at March 31, 2018 by approximately $4.0 million (2017 − $4.4 million).

Changes in accounting policies

New and amended standards not yet adopted by the Company

IFRS 9 - Financial Instruments

In July 2014, the IASB released the final version of IFRS 9 - Financial Instruments replacing IAS 39 - Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement.

IFRS 9 introduces a revised approach for the classification of financial assets based on how an entity manages financial assets and the characteristics of the contractual cash flows of the financial assets replacing the multiple rules in IAS 39. Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and measurement of financial liabilities have been carried forward in IFRS 9. IFRS 9 also introduces a new hedge accounting model that is more closely aligned with risk-management objectives as well as a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment on financial assets replacing the incurred loss model in IAS 39.

For the Company, IFRS 9 is effective for the fiscal period beginning on April 1, 2018. The Company has completed its assessment and has concluded that the adoption of this standard has no impact on its consolidated financial statements.

IFRS 15 - Revenue from contracts with customers

In May 2014, the IASB released IFRS 15 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which supersedes IAS 11 - Construction Contracts and IAS 18 - Revenue and related interpretations. The core principle of the new standard is to recognize revenue to depict fulfillment of performance obligations to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Revenue is recognized when, or as, the customer obtains control of the goods or services. The new standard also provides guidance for transactions that were not previously addressed comprehensively, improves guidance for multiple-element arrangements and enhances revenue related disclosures.

For the Company, IFRS 15 is effective for the fiscal period beginning on April 1, 2018. The Company has elected to apply IFRS 15 retrospectively and thus will restate its 2018 results, with an opening adjustment to equity as at April 1, 2017. The Company has elected to use the following practical expedients:


–	No restatement for contracts that were completed as at, or prior to April 1, 2017; and


–	Reflecting the aggregate effect of modifications to contracts that occurred prior to April 1, 2017 in identifying the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations and in determining the transaction prices to be allocated thereto.

The Company has reviewed its revenue contracts to evaluate the effect of the new standard on its revenue recognition practices. Based on its assessment, the adoption of the new standard will have the following impacts:

–

Revenue recognition for certain performance obligations currently accounted for using the percentage-of-completion method will no longer meet the requirements for revenue recognition over time. Revenue for these performance obligations will instead be recognized upon completion. As the performance obligations for these devices are met and manufacturing advances, the costs to build will be recognized as inventory. Payments received from customers that were previously applied as a reduction of the contracts in progress: assets will now need to be presented as contract liabilities;


–	Contracts in which the Company receives significant payment in advance now require a portion of the contract consideration to be allocated to a significant financing component, when certain criteria are met;


–	A change in the identification of performance obligations for certain multiple-element arrangements.

The following table presents the impact of IFRS 15 on the Company’s consolidated statement of financial position as at April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018:




As previously reported					IFRS 15			As restated			As currently reported				IFRS 15			As restated
(amounts in millions)	April 1, 2017			Adjustments				April 1, 2017			March 31, 2018			Adjustments				March 31, 2018
Assets
Total current assets		$	1,919.7		$	45.4			$	1,965.1		$	2,060.8		$	62.5			$	2,123.3
Total long-term assets		3,435.1			(2.5		)		3,432.6			3,658.4			(1.5		)		3,656.9
		$	5,354.8		$	42.9			$	5,397.7		$	5,719.2		$	61.0			$	5,780.2
Liabilities
Total current liabilities		$	1,273.9		$	137.2			$	1,411.1		$	1,320.6		$	153.5			$	1,474.1
Total long-term liabilities		1,999.9			(25.6		)		1,974.3			2,032.0			(23.4		)		2,008.6
		$	3,273.8		$	111.6			$	3,385.4		$	3,352.6		$	130.1			$	3,482.7
Shareholders' Equity
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company		$	2,020.8		$	(68.7	)		$	1,952.1		$	2,298.2		$	(69.1	)		$	2,229.1
Non-controlling interests		60.2			—				60.2			68.4			—				68.4
		$	2,081.0		$	(68.7	)		$	2,012.3		$	2,366.6		$	(69.1	)		$	2,297.5

For fiscal 2018, the impact of adopting IFRS 15 is a decrease to revenue of $6.5 million, an increase to operating profit of $1.8 million and an increase to finance expense - net of $1.0 million.

While these changes will impact the timing of contract revenue and profit recognition, there will be no change to cash flows from the contract.

The Company has updated and is finalizing the implementation of revised procedures and controls in order to meet the requirements of IFRS 15, as well as expanding disclosures which will be required under the new standard in fiscal 2019.

IFRS 16 - Leases

In January 2016, the IASB released IFRS 16 - Leases, which will replace IAS 17 - Leases and related interpretations. The new standard introduces a single lessee accounting model and eliminates the classification of leases as either operating or finance leases. It requires the lessee to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease obligation for all leases. Lessors will continue to classify leases as operating leases or finance leases as IFRS 16 substantially carries forward the current lessor accounting requirements.

For the Company, IFRS 16 will be effective for the fiscal period beginning on April 1, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on its consolidated financial statements. Where the Company is the lessee for leases that are considered operating leases under IAS 17, the adoption of IFRS 16 is expected to result in the recognition of assets and liabilities on the consolidated statement of financial position. The change to the recognition, measurement and presentation requirements from the adoption of this standard is expected to result in a decrease of the Company’s operating lease expense and an increase of its finance and depreciation expenses.

IFRIC 23 - Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

In June 2017, the IASB released IFRIC 23 - Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments, which addresses how to determine the taxable profit (loss), tax bases, unused tax losses, unused tax credits and tax rates, when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments under IAS 12 - Income Taxes. It specifically considers whether tax treatments should be considered independently or collectively and assumptions for taxation authorities’ examinations in regards to taxable profit (loss), tax bases, unused tax losses, unused tax credits or tax rates.

For the Company, IFRIC 23 is effective for the fiscal period beginning on April 1, 2019. The Company has completed its assessment and has concluded that the interpretation has no impact on its consolidated financial statements.