A message from David G. Rohrer CD, Chairman of the Board, Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum:
As we enter 2023, we are excited to have the Lancaster return to the skies with three freshly overhauled Merlin engines at a total cost of $600,000. Although we help fund our museum by hosting special events, educational programs, special exhibits, Retail Operations, Flight Operations, our museum membership program, accepting in kind gifts and donations, and admissions revenues, we continue to face financial challenges. Despite these important efforts, the increasing costs associated with preserving our invaluable collection of vintage military aircraft in an airworthy and flying condition at “Canada’s Flying Museum” is a reality we always face.
Ever since the loss of our Hawker Hurricane in a tragic hangar fire in February 1993, we have wanted to acquire another famous fighter aircraft from the World War II era. Until recently, this seemed to always be a bridge too far. However, with the kind support of Ingenium Canada, we were recently gifted with a Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk. XVIe fighter. We are extremely grateful and indebted to Ingenium Canada for their kindness.
As we celebrate our 51st year of operations, we will continue to fly our vintage military aircraft in honour of the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force, and the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. We will also continue ongoing restoration work on the Tracker, Tiger Moth, Harvard, and Bolingbroke, as well as commence the restoration of our newly acquired Spitfire to flying condition. This will be a multi-year project that will cost approximately $2.5M.
These are just some of the reasons we really need and appreciate your support. As a donor, your investment in the Canadian Warplane Heritage is an investment in a real Canadian success story. We have a great deal yet to accomplish and you are an important part of this worthy endeavour. Your donation is tax deductible and we will be sure to send you a charitable donation receipt with a letter of our appreciation.
I know I can count on you to join us in this important task as we continue to take visitors of all ages on a journey of learning that includes some of the finest stories from Canada’s rich military aviation heritage.
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