Pitt Meadows, BC – November 4, 2024 –Pitt Meadows Airport Society (PMAS) and Canadian Museum of Flight (CMF) are excited to announce a significant partnership that will see PMAS making a site available at the Pitt Meadows Regional Airport (YPK) for a new museum building. This commitment marks a pivotal step forward, enabling CMF to fundraise, design, and construct a modern facility to house its impressive collection.
Canadian Museum of Flight, currently located at Langley Regional Airport, has greatly benefited from the support of Airport Management and the Township of Langley. However, the existing location and building have become physically inadequate to showcase the museum’s valuable collection, which has often been left exposed or stored away, inaccessible to the public. The new site at Pitt Meadows Regional Airport will provide the necessary space to accommodate the museum’s extensive exhibits. Pitt Meadows Airport Society President, Mark Roberts, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Canadian Museum of Flight on this exciting new chapter for both our organizations. This initiative not only provides a state-of-the-art home for an extraordinary collection of history, but also strengthens our community by inspiring future generations. Together, we are committed to enhancing the educational and cultural fabric of our region.”
For over 45 years, CMF has relied on a dedicated group of community volunteers to assemble and maintain a remarkable collection of aircraft, artifacts, and documents. The museum’s exhibits reflect over a century of aviation history in Canada, highlighting the crucial role of aviation in transportation, communications, health, public safety, and the nation’s contributions to global freedom. CMF’s narrative is inclusive, celebrating the achievements of individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups.
The museum features unique aircraft, including several flying exhibits. Notably, CMF’s replica World War I biplanes participated in the anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in France in 2017 and regularly perform flyovers during local Remembrance Day events.
As an “aviation discovery centre,” CMF serves as a vital amenity for the lower mainland, attracting visitors from Canada and around the world. It is particularly focused on inspiring young people through education in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The museum fosters partnerships with organizations such as The Royal Canadian Air Cadets, high school science clubs, Air Scouts, and veteran’s organizations. Jim Sloat, President of Canadian Museum of Flight said, “The museum is excited by this opportunity which will benefit both the Airport and Museum and is looking forward to working with the Airport on the planning and development of the new facility that will do justice to its valuable collection.”
The new museum will occupy an approximate 10,120 sq metre site at YPK, with fundraising, planning, and design activities set to commence immediately. This collaboration promises to enhance the cultural and educational landscape of the region while providing a home for the museum’s exceptional collection. City of Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald said, “This partnership between Pitt Meadows Airport Society and Canadian Museum of Flight is a remarkable opportunity for our community. We are proud to support the development of a new museum that will celebrate our rich aviation history and inspire learning and exploration. This project aligns perfectly with our vision for a vibrant and engaged community, and we look forward to the seeing the positive impact it will have for residents and visitors alike.”
About Pitt Meadows Regional Airport
Pitt Meadows Regional Airport is owned and operated by the Pitt Meadows Airport Society, a registered not-for-profit organization. The Society is governed by a Board of Directors, appointed by each of its two Members – City of Maple Ridge and City of Pitt Meadows. Pitt Meadows Regional Airport is one of the leading community airports in Canada and has made significant investment into the rehabilitation and upgrade of current infrastructure. The airport is an emerging centre of aviation excellence within the provincial landscape. It is a major contributor to the growing strength and diversification of the aviation and aerospace industry in British Columbia, providing significant economic benefits and employment opportunities to the community at large.
For more information, contact:
Jim Sloat, President of the Canadian Museum of Flight Association