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Silver Dart
The first powered controlled flight in Canada occurred on February 23, 1909 at Baddeck, Nova Scotia. J.A.D McCurdy flew the ‘Silver Dart’ biplane for at approx 65 kph for almost a kilometre at nine metres above the frozen waters of Baddeck Bay. The Silver Dart was a product of the experiences gained from the three previous aircraft designed by the Aerial Experiment Association (AEA): the Red Wing, White Wing and the June Bug. -
Royal Canadian Air Force
By the spring of 1922 it had become obvious that a complete reorganization of the Canadian Air Force was necessary. Eighteen months of experience had proven that the policy of a non-permanent, non-professional force that gave only refresher courses was unsatisfactory. One month of training every other year was not adequate to maintain an efficient air force. New pilots were not being trained and permanent units did not exist. The official date of birth for the RCAF was April 1, 1924 -
The Victoria Cross Part 1
Pilot Officer AC Mynarski, VC
In an attack on a target at Cambrai, France, one night in June 1944, a Lancaster of No. 419 Squadron was shot down in flames. P/O A.C. Mynarski went to the aid of the rear gunner who was trapped in his turret. Mynarski continued his efforts to free the man until his own clothing and parachute were on fire and then, reluctantly went back through the blazing fuselage to the escape hatch and jumped. By that time he had received such severe burns that he died after. -
Victoria Cross Part 2
On 4th August 1944 Squadron Leader Bazalgette was "Master bomber" of a Pathfinder Squadron. They were suppose to find an important target for the main bomber force. When nearing, his aircraft was damaged and set on fire by anti-aircraft; the bomb aimer was wounded. Bazalgette marked the target and it was successful. The condition of the aircraft had become so bad that Bazalgette ordered his crew to leave by parachute. He attempted to land the aircraft and he did. Unfortunately it exploded. -
Charley Fox
In December 1944, Flight Lieutenant Fox led his squadron on an attack against enemy airfields in the Munster area and personally destroyed another enemy aircraft, bringing his total to 4. Through his quick and accurate reporting, a further 4 enemy aircraft were destroyed. Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, this officer continued to display “outstanding skill, coolness and determination. -
Victoria Cross part 3
F/L DE Hornell
F/L D.E. Hornell was one of the 6 U-Boats. He drove his Canso to target, Hornell attacked despite that one engine was on fire. The Canso itself was blazing and holed. One engine fell off into the sea. Nevertheless the pilot skilfully brought his Aircraft down. Only one dinghy was serviceable and the crew of eight had to take turns clinging to the sides. Two of the crew died from exposure. By that time he was blinded and completely exhausted, and he died after being picked up. -
First Jet
October 1947 to December 1948, was a period of marking time and laying the groundwork for the future. There was an expansion in Regular Force strength from 11,569 in 1947 to 13,832 in 1948. New Aircraft were introduced, including the "North Star" (September 1947) and the RCAF's first jet fighter, the "Vampire" (January 1948). -
Ready for First Jet Combat
In 1948 the RCAF chose the North American-designed F-86 Sabre as its next fighter, to fulfil its NATO commitment. Sabres were similar to their American counterparts, but the Sabre 5 and 6 had Canadian-designed Orenda engines. The Sabre 6, with its extra power and slatted wing, was the best version of the airplane built by Canadair. Canadian Sabres served in Canada with Canadians overseas. The Canadair F-86 Sabre was to become the RCAF's most famous and unanimously well-liked, operational fighter -
NORAD
Canada and USA's millitary agreements were the formation of an organization for their air defence. August 1, 1957 a joint announcement by government authorities of Canada and the United States heralded the integration of the air defence forces in the two countries under a single operational command answerable to the chiefs of staff of both countries. A Canadian Headquarters for NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) was established at North Bay, ONT. -
Stunt Planes
First Canadian Jets were rebuilt to do the best stunts Canada could ever do! -
Silver Dart Remade
Complete Replica of Silver Dart made by NORAD. Best replica of the year! -
Superplane
The new superplane model TL-88 was created by RCAF. New features include warping!
