| The Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
October 2026 e–Newsletter |
|
|
From the Desk of the Executive |
|
|
Porter Airlines' Embraer E-195-E2 |
| On 17 September 2026, the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame (CAHF) held their 2026 Induction Ceremony at the Porter Airlines Maintenance Facility in Ottawa. I had the pleasure of attending the ceremony as the official CAHS representative. The CAHS gave each inductee a prize that included a letter of congratulations, CAHS Journal, 2027 Aviation Art Calendar, and a Gift Membership to the CAHS. |
|
|
Those who attended the 2025 CAHS convention will remember visiting the newly built hangar as part of Friday’s tours. For the CAHF Induction Ceremony, Porter Airlines provided a de Havilland Canada Q400 and an Embraer E-195-E2 for the event, both of which were open for tours and cockpit photos. |
Porter Airlines' de Havilland Canada Q400 |
|
|
Porter Airlines’ flight and ground crew were on hand to answer any questions attendees had about the aircraft. In addition, Vintage Wings of Canada had their Hawker Hurricane Mk. XII, North American P-51D Mustang, and Supermarine Spitfire Mk. IX on display. Vintage Wings personnel were also on hand to talk about their aircraft. |
| Vintage Wings of Canada's Supermarine Spitfire Mk. IX |
|
|
2026 CAHF Inductees and Presenters (credit: CAHF Facebook) |
The 2026 Inductees included Robert Banks, Donald J. Carty, Michael Potter, and Ken Molson (which Chris Terry accepted on his behalf). The Belt of Orion Award for Excellence was presented to the Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC). The Canada’s Aviation Distinction Award was given to the Canadian Space Agency’s Artemis II Team, with astronaut Jeremy Hansen accepting. The Induction Ceremony was hosted by legendary broadcaster, Peter Mansbridge. |
Vintage Wings of Canada's Hawker Hurricane Mk. XII |
The event was well attended, with over 60 tables being filled by those wishing to celebrate the inductees. It really was a great opportunity to interact with members of Canada’s aviation community. The CAHS was well represented, and it was a pleasure to speak with the long term CAHS members in attendance. In addition, CAHF board chair Jean Menard acknowledged the work of the CAHS during his introductory remarks. All in all, a great night! |
Kyle Huth, National Vice President, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
Click the button above, then click on the little magnifying glass to begin your search. |
| Click the button above or, if you have a smartphone, simply point its camera app at the on-screen QR code to donate via mobile. |
| |
|
From the Desk of the Journal Editor |
|
|
A personal note I was saddened to learn of the recent passing of UK-based aviation artist Charles Thompson. Charles was another of those gracious souls, always willing to share his work with the CAHS through Journal covers and our annual Aviation Art Calendar project. With the caveat that it should not interfere with any previously held client agreements, he literally opened his entire catalogue of work to us for these venues. When circumstances allowed, his sharing of "airplane stories" along the way was always a highlight of interacting with him. I couldn't find a "traditional" online obituary for Charles, but the American Society of Aviation Artists has paid him a tribute of sorts on their Facebook page, where Charles' son John – also an artist – provides a few words about his father that are not at all surprising. Charles' passing reminds me that we are truly blessed to have all of our contributing artists on board. From my perspective as a designer who is always on the hunt for quality contextual visual content, it amazes me that they give so freely of their time and energy to deliver cover after impactful cover and calendar images galore. Thank you, one and all! Current Production
As I write this, we have two newly printed issues of the Journal with Canada Post. Another is at the start of the printer's workflow, another is in proofreading, one is being laid out, and at least three more have content already selected and are in editorial development by our hard-working Associate Editors. Another round of Digitized Legacy Editions
The legacy continues to live on! Volume 38 (2000) is now available in both the members-only area and the web shop on our site. As a reminder: Current members can access all new and legacy digital editions for free via the "LOG IN" tab above, where you will need to use the email address you shared with the CAHS, as well as a password. If you are already logged in, the tab will read "MY ACCOUNT." If you have trouble logging in, contact our webmaster. Non-members can enjoy instant access at a very reasonable cost ($7 each) by purchasing downloadable PDF copies. Select a cover image below to read any issue's table of contents. |
|
|
Volume 38 (4 digital issues) is now available as a printable PDF in both the members-only area of our site and the web shop.
|
|
|
Terry Higgins, Creative Director, Website Administrator, CAHS Journal Managing Editor and Graphics Director, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
More on our ongoing access-through-digitization efforts
|
Attention e-newsletter readers! The CAHS is looking for your recommendations for CAHS Journal articles that could be added to the CAHS website as free-access research material. The idea behind this is that these articles will draw interested members of the general public to the CAHS website for research and potential membership. Send your suggestions to Kyle Huth. Please ensure you include the title of the article, the author, the journal volume and number, and a brief description of why the article should be available to the public. Submit your recommendation by 30 October 2026. |
Kyle Huth, Vice President, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
From the Desk of the Treasurer |
The CAHS continues to sell books in the CAHS Shop about Canada’s aviation history; these are always offered at a discount from the retail price. I am pleased to be able to announce a price drop on books written by Deana Driver. Both Crash Harrison and Gooney Birds are now available for $19 each (plus $8 shipping to Canadian addresses). We now selling the three volumes of Flight - Stories of Canadian Aviation together for $40 (plus $23 shipping to Canadian address). We are able to restock Dominque Prinet's Flying to Extremes at a cost of $21 each (plus $8 shipping to Canadian addresses). Don't forget to check out the thumbnails below for our most recent additions to the shop and to see what is still available when you are looking for gift ideas for the aviation enthusiasts in your life. Thanks for supporting the CAHS and our aviation authors. |
Cordially, Dr. Rachel Lea Heide, National Treasurer, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
CAHS 2027 Aviation Art Calendar |
|
|
| The CAHS is excited to launch its annual aviation art calendar for 2027. The annual aviation art calendar is available ($15 a copy plus $6 shipping in Canada). This bilingual calendar includes 13 full-colour images featuring a collection of civilian and military aviation aircraft. |
|
|
Spitfire Girls Trailblazer |
|
|
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum's Fly-In Marked 80th Anniversary of the Chipmunk |
DHC-1 Chipmunk from Canadian Aviation Museum in Windsor at CWHM 80th anniversary of the Chipmunk fly-in, 29 August 2026. |
An impressive fly-in to mark the 80th anniversary of the Canadian-designed-and-built de Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk trainer was held at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum on 29 August 2026. Photos and story by Gord McNulty |
|
|
Remembering the Airmen Lost in the Dakota Plane Crash at Estevan, Saskatchewan, September 1946 |
Together Forever in the Clouds Cairn Commemeration, 15 September 2026. (Lois Wilson photo) |
On 15 September 1946, a Dakota plane crash at Estevan, Saskatchewan ended the lives of 21 Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) airmen. Eighty years later, the RCAF, the town of Estevan, and family members gathered to commemorate the airmen's sacrifice. Teacher-turned- author Marie Calder has played a significant role in remembering the men lost in this crash - from writing a book about them to helping with the organizing of remembrance ceremonies to being involved in the creation of the memorial cairn. In this article, Marie Calder shares how she got involved in researching, writing about, and commemorating the 21 lost airmen of Estevan. Story by Marie Donais Calder |
|
|
International Recognition for Canadian Mosquitos |
|
|
Snowbirds Retiring CT-114 Tutors; CT-157 "Siskin" Introduced |
September’s 2026 Canadian International Air Show in Toronto marked what is now the end of the iconic CT-114 Tutors as the Canadian Snowbirds, after a run of over 3,000 shows. This short video by the CBC highlights the reactions of spectators watching these planes for the last time, saying they will miss the pride of watching the red-and-white fly by, and thanking the pilots who have so well represented the country. |
The CBC also gives a behind-the-scenes tour with Major Maciej Hatta before the airshow, showing the preparations and briefings necessary to perform, as well as a run-through of the 55-year history of this Canadian tradition. The Royal Canadian Air Force’s 431 Air Demonstration Squadron - more widely known as the Snowbirds - were established in 1971. As did their predecessor Canadian military aerobatic flight demonstration teams - the Siskins, the Golden Hawks, and the Golden Centennaires - the Snowbirds have delighted and entertained crowds in Canada and the United States for more than half a century. The Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame bestowed the Belt of Orion Award for Excellence on the Snowbirds in 1994. The RCAF has made the decision to retire the Canadian-made CT-114 Tutors since feasibility studies showed there were engineering challenges because of the aircraft's age. They are to be replaced by a Swiss-made turboprop within the next few years. The second video shows the new Swiss-made CT-157 Siskin flying with the CT-114 Tutor Snowbirds they are meant to succeed. Ania Pazik, eNewsletter Editor, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
Aviation and Winnipeg in the Second World War |
LCol (ret.) Robert Nash tells the story of the aviation connections to Winnipeg, Manitoba during the Second World War. This includes the civilian and military side of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, as well as those distinguished airmen who called Winnipeg home, and those who didn't return. via Kyle Huth |
|
|
The Making of a Heritage Moment: Gander and 9/11 |
With a lot of my own heritage and history in and around Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, the response and support of Ganderites 25 years ago is humbling and asperational. The Historica Canada's Gander 9/11 Heritage Minute was published with the behind-the-scenes video below. Watch Rick Mercer and locals interviewed about the production and their experiences. |
Andrea Wiseman, Webmaster, Canadian Aviation Historical Society |
|
|
Articles, Auction, and Book Readings of Interest |
|
|
Multiple Canadian Aviation Events |
|
|
National Seniors Day 1 Oct @ 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
11th Annual CAM Scale Model Contest 3 Oct @ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Burger Burn Saturday (Final Event) 3 Oct @ 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. |
| Saskatchewan Aviation Museum |
National Seniors Day 1 Oct |
Cultural Days for New Comers to Canada 13 Oct |
Members - Volunteers Appreciation Social 20 Oct |
|
|
Canadian Aviation and Space Museum/Ingenium |
Fly High with de Havilland Canada 3 - 4 Oct @ 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
World Space Week 3 -12 Oct @ 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
| Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association |
Open House & Fly Day 3 Oct @ 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. |
|
|
Roll Out Open House 3 Oct @ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
| Vertical MRO Conference 5 - 7 Oct |
Canadian Wildfire Conference 2026 28 - 29 Oct |
|
|
Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada |
Storytime with a Pilot 8 Oct @ 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. |
Hobbs Halloween Carnival 31 Oct @ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
| Blatchford Barnstorming Bonanza 9 Oct @ 4 - 7 p.m. |
Film Screening: Fire Guardians Access 23 Oct Museum access @ 4 p.m. Film @ 7 p.m. |
|
|
Honouring our Local Veterans 25 Oct @ 1 p.m. |
| Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum |
Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance 14 Nov @ 5:30 p.m. |
|
|
Celebrations and Conferences in Aviation |
|
|
| American Aviation Historical Society 70th Anniversary Celebration |
|
|
| Aviation Inclusivity Summit |
|
|
Bringing together members of Winnipeg’s business, aviation and community sectors for an evening celebrating aviation heritage and the future of exploration. Held among the museum’s historic aircraft, the gala will feature premium dining, live and silent auctions, entertainment and immersive experiences inspired by the journey from Apollo to Artemis. The evening will also honour Ross Robinson, a lifelong aviator, business leader and dedicated Museum supporter, recognizing his contributions to aviation and the museum. |
| 7 November 2026 All Gala proceeds support the museum’s STEM education and outreach programs, providing young people with opportunities to explore aviation, aerospace and STEM while helping preserve and share Canada’s aviation heritage for future generations.
Tickets and tables are available now. Reserve your place for an evening celebrating the past, present and future of aviation.
|
|
|
Portrait of Charles Thompson by his son, John Charles Thompson (credit:American Society of Aviation Artists (ASAA)) |
See Terry Higgins comments in the Journal section above. An obituary was not available at the time of publishing. |
|
|
Canadian Aviation Moments |
Here are the questions and answers to this month's Canadian Aviation Moments: |
|
|
| Question 1: What were the engineering aspects that were technically noteworthy in the Avro Arrow? Source: The Arrow Scrapbook, pg. 13 (Zuuring) |
|
|
| Question 2: What was dead reckoning? Source: Wings For Victory, pg. 178 (Dunmore) |
|
|
| Question 3: What percentage of the Royal Air Force (RAF) Bomber Command wartime dropped bomb tonnage was dedicated to the industrial cities?
Source: No Prouder Place, pg. 459 (Bashow) |
|
|
Spoiler alert - the answers to this month's questions follow. Skip the rest of this section and come back later if you wish to guess/research the answers first. Good luck and have fun! |
ANSWER 1: “In all engineering aspects, the aircraft was technically noteworthy both for the time of its design in Canada and for the considerable advancements made in the fields of aerodynamics, aeroelasticity, structures, systems, avionic and armaments, to name a few. The delta wing design was a compromise between performance, stiffness, fuel capacity and fire-control stability. Extensive “area rule” calculations to reduce supersonic drag were carried out. New manufacturing techniques were implemented and new materials refined. Structural calculations were simulated using stress matrix calculations supported by empirical testing. The use of computers to reduce the tedious arithmetic calculations was extensive and new for the time. The air forces of Britain and the U.S. shared information freely with the RCAF. Key suppliers also helped in informing and putting into practice data, techniques and applications which made it seem that AVRO was indeed working on the cutting edge – some would say ahead of its time.” Source: The Arrow Scrapbook, pg. 13 (Zuuring) |
ANSWER 2: “Dead reckoning – the process of deducing your position from your last known position, using mathematical calculations involving airspeed, course, wind direction, and wind velocity – was the cornerstone of navigation taught at AOSs.” Source: Wings For Victory, pg. 178 (Dunmore) |
ANSWER 3: “While part of the bombing effort was to be directed at Germany’s home front military and economic structures if the nation first attacked civilian targets in an indiscriminate manner, very large portions of the overall effort were direct at many other targets for which the Command’s total wartime dropped bomb tonnage was dedicated to the industrial cities. Also, during the later stages of the campaign, even attacks against industrialized cities were frequently tactical rather than strategic, conducted as they were in support of the advancing Allied land armies. For much of the first four years of the war, support for the naval war comprised a significant portion of the Command’s overall effort, while for much of 1944 it was extensively used in support of the invasion of northwest Europe.” Source: No Prouder Place, pg. 459 (Bashow) |
Select a chapter to discover what they have been up to since the last newsletter. Many of our Chapters remain very active on Zoom with presentations every bit as good as they would be if we did not have pandemic restrictions to deal with! |
|
|
Special Thanks To Our Supporters |
|
|
In addition to its members, contributors, and newsletter subscribers, the CAHS is thankful for the ongoing support of its Corporate Members, Museum Members, and Partner Organizations, as well as the many individuals and organizations whose financial donations are so generously given. If you would like to become a Corporate Member or Museum Member - or if you know an organization that might like to join - we are always happy to receive new applications. Please use the hyperlinks above to learn more about our corporate members and partner organizations. Corporate Members: |
|
|
Follow us on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) |
|
|
If you have changed your mailing or e-mail address, please get in touch to keep us up to date. Contact the Membership Administrator here. To enquire about membership payment records, contact the Treasurer here. Click here to renew immediately online, or to join as a new member. If you would like to register or renew by mail, printable forms are also available in the bottom area of this page on our site. If you have any aviation history-related news or events to share, please contact our newsletter editor here. Please feel free to forward to friends and family members, or encourage them to sign up on our website to receive the newsletter directly for FREE. We hope that you enjoy receiving this monthly newsletter and find the contents informative and enjoyable. If you no longer wish to receive it for any reason, please use the unsubscribe option below to have your email address removed immediately from the mailing list. |
|
|
The Canadian Aviation Historical Society (CAHS) P.O. Box 2700 • Station D • Ottawa • Ontario • K1P 5W7 visit us at www.cahs.com The CAHS is incorporated as a Canadian Registered Charity under a Federal Charter with the business registration number 118829589 RR001 |
|
|
|
|
