Top Places to Visit for Canadian Aviation Enthusiasts

Did you know that the world’s first international airmail delivery took place between Vancouver's Coal Harbour and Seattle, Washington? Or that the first successful all-Canadian aircraft engine was constructed in 1910 by William Wallace “Birdman” Gibson? There’s no doubt that the country boasts a rich and diverse aviation history just waiting to be discovered.

If you’re an aviation enthusiast who regularly embraces private jet charter or travels frequently on commercial planes and you’re living in or travelling through Canada, you might be wondering where to go to explore this awe-inspiring aviation history. Here’s a round-up of a few of the top aviation hot spots in Canada to add to your bucket list of local must-sees.

The Montreal Aviation Museum

This treasured museum, focused on preserving Canadian aviation and aeronautical heritage, has been around since the late 1990s. Here, aviation enthusiasts can explore an array of enthralling artifacts, memorabilia, and “retired” aircraft, many of which played a significant role in shaping the industry.

There’s also an aviation-inspired art gallery onsite, a library filled to the brim with books written about the subject of aviation, and a documentation centre for academics. Those who are keen to get a bit more hands-on regarding their exploration will enjoy signing up to take part in the museum’s public workshops, where they’ll learn more about the art of aircraft restoration and construction.

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

This sought-after museum in Ottawa is housed on a plot that used to serve as a military airbase. It’s dedicated to showcasing civil and military aircraft and artifacts dating from 1909 to the present day. Aviation fans will get an up-close look at authentic propellers, engines, and much more. The best part is that no visit to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum is ever the same. The curators are constantly revolving their exhibitions and bringing new highlights to the fore.

Having said that, there are a few permanent exhibitions to look forward to too, such as “Eyes on the Skies: Managing Air Traffic in Canada”, which explores the people, systems, and technologies that work together to keep Canadian skies safe, and “Engines: The Power to Fly”, which educates viewers about the various aircraft engines and how they keep their planes in flight.

Vancouver International Airport

There’s a reason to head to Vancouver International Airport even if you haven’t booked a private flight. The bustling airport is home to a well-known public observation area, situated just above the food court in the domestic terminal on level four.

The popular viewing area has been designed with massive windows that stretch from the floor to the ceiling to allow for uninterrupted views across the airfield. For those hoping to get an even better look at the aircraft as they take off, there’s also access to telescopes and a variety of information panels about the planes that frequent Vancouver’s skies.  

Larry Berg Flight Path Park

While you’re in Vancouver, why not bring the whole family along to explore the wonders of the aviation world? Larry Berg Flight Path Park in Richmond is a fantastic, family-friendly destination ideal for plane-spotting, providing the perfect view of the aircraft taking off from the airport’s bustling south runway.

Grab your binoculars, bicycle (there are mini, authentically marked runways throughout the park for your kids’ riding pleasure), and your picnic basket and make a day of it. After all, the experience isn’t just about catching a glimpse of the planes as they hurtle into the sky – there’s also easy access to graphic information panels, strategically placed to allow plane-spotters to identify and learn more about the many aircraft overhead. Don’t forget to embrace the Instagram-worthy photo opportunity that is standing in front of (or on top of) the park’s famed globe.

Flight City

No need to travel to special museums, viewing areas, or parks to marvel at Canada’s aviation industry’s finest. Simply plan a trip to Flight City, a go-to store for hobbyists in Richmond. It’s a mesmerizing paradise for aviation fans with plenty of incredible must-haves to explore.

The store is packed with model aircraft, aviation-focused books and magazines, aviation-themed apparel, and much more. There’s even a dedicated kiddies section where young flying fans of all ages (toddlers included) will find a host of exciting toys, models, and playsets. Better yet, the hobby store is located just a stone’s throw away from Larry Berg Flight Path Park, so you can combine both experiences into one.

The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

The Western Canada Aviation Museum first opened its doors in the mid-1970s and received its “Royal” designation in 2014 when it changed its name to the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada. It has been closed for re-location since 2018, with its big reveal set for 2022. Now’s the time to get excited about what’s to come, because if sources are to be believed, the brand-new museum is going to be incredible.

Aviation enthusiasts can look forward to thrilling exhibits, with most dedicated to bush planes, military aircraft, passenger aircraft (including both private planes and commercial jets), and experimental aircraft. There are also going to be thousands of aviation artifacts to explore and appreciate. Watch this space.

Private jet travel with Air Charter Service

When it comes to private jet charter, Air Charter Service (ACS) leads the way. Not only do we make it effortless to book private flights whenever required, but we also offer our clients access to a diverse fleet of aircraft – a fleet that we are always expanding. Along with plane rental, we specialize in helicopter charter, group charter, cargo charter, and much more. Contact us to book a private jet or to request a quote, and be sure to browse our handy aircraft guide for a better idea of what’s available.

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