-W. Roy Maxwell-
The oldest, continuously-flying, non-scheduled government air service in the world will be celebrated this summer in
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario!
The Ontario Provincial Air Service was launched on March 1, 1924. It and its successor, the Aviation, Forest Fires and Emergency Services in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, have provided a century of flying operations in support of resource management, emergency response, and consequently, advances in bushplane development.
To honour this significant milestone, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre (CBHC)
will be hosting a series of events and exhibits.
“It’s the bush flying pioneers, and the thousands of pilots, air engineers and support staff who have contributed to 100 years of resource management, emergency response, and technical innovation who we are honouring this summer.” – J. Hilsinger
The Curtiss HS-2L Flying Boat was the first aircraft utilized by the OPAS and a new 1/4 scale replica will be added to the Collection in June. The exhibit will be unveiled at an event on June 13, 2024. Long time volunteer and historian, Pierre Verhelst will deliver a short talk about the significance of the aircraft.
This innovative, self-directed exploration of the historic OPAS building, now home to CBHC, illuminates the achievements and individuals associated with OPAS, underscoring their enduring influence on the community. Presently accessible via smartphone app in English, the tour will expand to encompass five additional languages (French, Anishnaabemowin, Spanish, German, and Hindi) by July 1, 2024.
<< Click the image to download the app or scan the QR codes below
Apple | Google Play |
50 Pim Street Sault Ste. Marie, ON Canada P6A 3G4