Even before hostilities began at the start of the WW II, it was
recognized that one of Canada's major roles would be as a training
ground where flying instruction could be carried out away from the
actual battle zone.
On December 17, 1939, an agreement was reached between the Government
of Canada headed by Prime Minister MacKenzie King, The United Kingdom,
Australia, and New Zealand to put the BCATP into operation. The RCAF
(The Royal Canadian Air Force) was to play an important role in the
skies by participating in the greatest air training scheme ever in
existence: The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
The Plan did the job beyond all expectations. In the years that
followed, the BCATP transformed Canada into what U.S. President
Roosevelt called "The Aerodrome Of Democracy". Through this scheme,
Britain was to be provided with the aircrews it so desperately needed.
Canada was seen as a natural training ground for airmen. It had
manpower, natural resources, plenty of space, suitable climate, and
immunity from enemy interference. Even though Canada's climate is one
of extremes, none of our conditions is comparable to the adverse flying
weather experienced in England and flying here can be continued with
few interruptions throughout the year. Climatically, Britain found
herself frequently encased in fog or rain which tended to restrict the
number of flying days.
During the 59 months (May 1940 to March 1945) that the Plan was in
operation, approximately 360 schools and ancillary units had been established at 231 sites across Canada.
