Thanks to The Hangar Flight Museum for sponsoring this post
The Hangar Flight Museum kicks of their summer season with their Father’s Day weekend Wings and Wheels event. At this fun event, you can go inside several of their vintage aircraft and see a car show!
Now Boarding: Open Aircraft Days
But the fun doesn’t stop there. All summer long, on Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays, The Hangar Flight Museum has airplanes open for visitors. Not only that, but they have knowledgeable staff and volunteers that are able to answer your questions.
We were able to tour many of the Now Boarding airplanes during The Hangar’s Wings and Wheels Father’s Day event. My kids absolutely loved being able to go inside the aircraft. I really enjoyed hearing the stories and information by The Hangar’s staff and volunteers.
Tips for The Hangar’s Now Boarding Open Aircraft Days
- Closed toe shoes are required to enter the aircraft
- Helmets and gloves may be required (these will be provided)
- Check the Now Boarding schedule to see which aircraft will be open
- Save on repeat visits by buying a membership – a family membership breaks even on your third visit
Now Boarding Airplanes and Dates
Twin Otter days:
- Saturday June 22
- Sunday July 7
- Saturday August 3
- Sunday August 18
- Saturday August 31
The de Havilland Canada Twin Otter (DHC-6) was designed as a bush plane and has also been used as small commuter airliner. This may have been my daughter’s favourite as it has one of the cutest sounding airplane names.
Avro Anson days
- Sunday June 23
- Saturday July 13
- Saturday August 27
- Sunday August 11
The Avro 652 Anson MK. II was originally used as a six passenger commercial aircraft but was later modified by the Royal Air Force for reconnaissance, transport and training. Many ended up on farms used as chicken coops or striped for parts.
This particular aircraft was constructed from incomplete air frames found in Southern Alberta. One of the wings has been left unskinned so you can see the construction.
Avro Lancaster days
- Saturday June 29
- Saturday July 6
- Sunday August 4
- Saturday August 17
- Sunday September 4
The Avro Lancaster MK X was a heavy bomber first used in the Second World War. Of the thousands built, only 17 Lancaster’s remain. This particular aircraft was never issued to an active squadron during the War and served as a maritime patrol plane after the War. It is one of the most impressive aircraft that you can tour at The Hangar.
Gloves are required and helmets are required for adults. They are both provided.
Douglas DC-3 days
- Sunday June 30
- Sunday July 21
- Saturday August 10
- Monday September 2
The Douglas DC-3 was developed in 1935 as a commercial aircraft able to carry 24 passengers or tons of cargo. Hundreds are still flying throughout the world. The interior of this DC-3 has been restored to a vintage passenger cabin and it was interesting to see the similarities and differences compared to modern airplanes.
Beechcraft 18 days
- Monday July 1
- Sunday July 14
- Sunday July 28
- Saturday August 24
The Beechcraft Expeditor was designed as a commercial aircraft and used in the Second World War and beyond as a military transport and trainer. It was surprisingly comfortable on the inside.
Fighter jets (F-86 Sabre and de Havilland Vampire) days
- Saturday July 20
- Monday August 5
- Sunday August 25
Production of the F-86 Sabre began just after the Second World War. Sabres were manufactured in Canada by Canadair of Montreal and were used as a fast and nimble fighter aircraft for NATO as part of the European air defence force. My oldest (10) loved the feeling of sitting in a real fighter jet.
The de Havilland Vampire was the first jet fighter to enter service with the Royal Air Force just after the Second World War. The kids loved the unique shape of the Vampire.
Our whole family had a great time at the Hangar. Whether your family is huge aviation fans or just have a casual interest in airplanes, I highly recommend taking advantage of these rare opportunities to get up close and personal with these historic aircraft.
Visit The Hangar’s website for the most up to current list of airplanes and dates for Now Boarding: Open Aircraft Days.