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Vesta's Corner
 This weeks postcard from my collection - CHEMAINUS,B.C  Located on the East Coast of Vancouver Island 'The Little Town That Did' attracts thousands of visitors that enjoy its cozy picturesque storefronts and distinctively fine, hand painted murals. |
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Air Canada - our first 70 years
1992
George Brien has sent us this information - Hi Folks. Excerpts from "Bill Arrowsmith's Scrapbook" TRANS-CANADA AIR LINES in N.B. in the 1940's Saint John Telegraph Journal Feb 1 1952 Trans-Canada Air lines service was first established in the early days of the Airline in Nov 1 1939, when training flights were began between Montreal and Moncton. This service, carrying mail and express only, connected at Montreal with Toronto and Ottawa. The carriage of passengers on the Moncton route commenced on Feb 15 1940, and the first aircraft was the Lockheed 14's. To accommodate this equipment at Moncton, hanger construction commenced in the autumn of 1939 and was completed in July of 1940. On April 15, 1941, Canadian Airways cancelled its service between Moncton , Summerside and Charlottetown. On request of the Postmaster General , TCA temporary operated until Dec 8 when a contract between the post office and MCA became effective. At the same time TCA extended its service to Halifax and the first flight left the New Brunswick city on April 16th. Treaty arrangements were completed between the Government of Canada and the Newfoundland Government and service between Moncton Sydney and St. Johns was inaugurated in May 1942 . By November, two daily flights were operating on the route and the Montreal , Moncton, Halifax service had increased to three flights daily. At the request of Dept of Munitions and Supply, TCA began temporary service between Moncton and Goose Bay on Mar 26, 1943. On July 1, 1944 one Maritime round trip was routed through Blissville NB to bring mainline service closer to Saint John and Fredericton. Simultaneously, daily service was inaugurated between Halifax and Sydney. The year 1945 saw the TCA schedule multiplied on a scale unequalled since the company's early days. In Eastern Canada, flight between Montreal and Halifax were increased to 4 daily and flights from Halifax to Sydney were increased to 2 each day. With this increase in flight frequency came the decision to establish Moncton as a major aircraft maintenance base. In 1946, bigger Lockheed 18 equipment was introduced in the Atlantic Seaboard provinces. TCA expanded its network of very high frequency radio stations throughout the Maritimes to establish static free communications with aircraft in flight. DC-3 equipment was put on the Maritime routes in Feb of 1947 and to Nfld in May of the same year. In April, an international twice daily service was inaugurated between Halifax -Yarmouth-Boston. Blissville Airport was abandoned on April 15th, when operations were transferred to Pennfield Ridge. A Pennfield stop was then incorporated into the Boston service. 1948 saw the introduction of direct operations between Sydney Moncton and Saint John. In Sept, 1949, TCA began service to Stephenville Nfld on a daily schedule over the Montreal Moncton Sydney Gander St. Johns route. This was made possible by the recent Canadian-American Air agreement which provides for the use of Stephenville (USAF base at Harmon Field) , as a traffic stop in domestic operations. The Maritime Provinces have been closely associated with the tremendous growth of Transatlantic air travel which began its real development during the second world war. At first military aircraft, seen at many east coast bases, provided the bulk of trans ocean air transport. TCA commenced overseas operations with Lancaster equipment in July of 1943 at the request of the Canadian Government, to carry high priority passengers and mail for the forces. In 1947, TCA's 4 engine North Star's took their place beside the aircraft of international carriers seen in the Maritimes. Today they provide eastern Canadians with first class service to the United Kingdom through connecting domestic flights. George Brien |
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TCA/AC People Gallery
Musings from "Horizons" -Issue dated March 1992 In August 1991 the YUL Power Plant put together a task force to review JT9D engine performance. We have this picture.  In 1991 the UK Reservations group grossed $6.2 in ticket sales. Here is a photograph of the team.  Issue dated November 1992 L.A.X. celebrated a silver anniversary. We have this picture of the ticket counter staff at Terminal 2  Six Edmonton employees add up to 150 years service - here they are;  The APU staff at Dorval achieved a 100% spare engine availability, an Air Canada first. Here is a photo of the dedicated crew  |
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Star Alliance News
 BMI, London Heathrow's second largest airline, has launched an innovative new paperless boarding system, allowing customers checking in online for bmi flights to have their boarding pass delivered electronically to their mobile phone or PDA (personal digital assistant). BMI is the first British airline to introduce the new paper-free system, which will deliver a two-dimensional barcode boarding pass to mobile phones with picture messaging (MMS) capabilities.The service is part of BMIs commitment to reducing time spent at the airport and will assist in maintaining its position as one of the UK's most punctual airlines. |
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Where are they now?
 Airbus A340-312 C-FDRO c/n 48 now with Aerolineas Argentinas registered as LV-BMT. This picture shows the aircraft at Miami in 2008 |
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Bytes and Pieces
 Difficult AirportsBelow is another PowerPoint Slideshow that was sent to me by a friend. (Thanks Mr. Watson) If you click on the image below it will take you to a site that will allow you to view the slideshow. Make sure you click on the "Full" button after you are on the website in order to see the full screen mode of the presentation. To see some great photos of very short (and many scenic) landing strips, click on the image below. TTYL, Alan Difficult Airports (slideshow)  |
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Canadi>n/CPAir/PWA, Wardair, etc. Events & People
1998
Issue dated Mid-April 1985
Issue July 1997 Capt. Rosella Bjornson who, in 1990, became the first female Captain with Canadi>n, was inducted into the Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame. We have this photograph.  Issue dated February 1998 - 1989 - Oct 31 - First flight by Canadi>n North to Rankin Inlet by B737 equipment. Issue dated March 1998 - Pacific Airways - an ancestor - became operational in YVR in 1925 and was flying to the Orient in 1949. Language skills are good for business. We have this picture of the Flight Attendants who were screening new Flight Attendants.  Issue dated April 1988 - Empress lounges were a proud addition to the Canadi>n service. We have this picture.  Issue dated May 1998 - LHR was considered the Crossroads of the air traffic world. Here is a picture of the sales staff for London.  And the two guys pictured here help maintain the aircraft at LHR.  |
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Readers Feedback
 All our readers must be on vacation - as we did not hear from any of you! |
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Found on the Internet
A Boeing B747 dumped at Stockholm's Arlanda Airport since 2002 could soon offer travellers a new option to cheap airport accommodation.The plan is to rip out the 500 seats and install 80 beds in 25 rooms, all with en-suite facilities including TV. The cockpit would be made into a suite with the two control columns serving as reading lights. The upstairs cabin would become a spacious suite. Hopefully the rooms would be available later this year. (Knowing how cramped the seating is on a B747, one wonders what size the rooms would be - eds) |
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Terry's Travel Tips
 Your co-pilot recently stayed at the Hilton in Las Vegas. Strange, but probably the same at most of the hotels in Las Vegas. The guests are asked to conserve energy by indicating if one wishes to have their towels and bed linen changed daily. One is encouraged to place soiled towels in the bath if they are to be laundered and replaced, and a card placed on the pillow for the same treatment as the towels.And this in the "City of Lights" which never sleeps - and needs vast quantities of energy to supply the casinos, streets and buildings 24/7. Also, our flight to Las Vegas - Jazz - had a malfunction of the plumbing system, and no water was available. So, no tea, coffee or water. The bathrooms were supplied with Wet Naps. As there was no water, we can only assume this was a new fuel saving technique. |
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Smilie
 Tower: "Delta 351, you have traffic at 10 o'clock, 6 miles!"Delta 351: "Give us another hint! We have digital watches!" From the "Canadi>n Flyer" issued July 1997  |
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Vesta's Corner
Capt. Lynn Barton was the pilot of the first aircraft to arrive at Heathrow's Terminal 5 when it opened for business on March 27th. Lynn, who previously earned her place in British Airways history as their first women pilot was in charge of BA025 from Hong Kong. Lynn became the carrier's first female pilot in 1987 on joining the B747 fleet.. There are now 175 female pilots among its 3,200 pilots.
This weeks postcard from my collection - FIESTA EN ESPANA. |
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Air Canada - our first 70 years
We have received several pictures of aircraft from our readers - here's one of the North Star -  and a photograph of our first Viscount at the Vickers plant in Weybridge U.K.  The last RB211 engine overhauled by Air Canada, bringing to an end a long relationship with Rolls Royce which dates back to 1943 when our Lancaster's were equipped with Merlin engines. 1992 - Oct 25th - Launch of a strategic alliance with United Airlines. 1993
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TCA/AC People Gallery
Musings from "Horizons" -Issue dated December 1992 - Tech Ops tests skills on an when fin 211 took off from YUL, the pilot complained of a slight vibration. The main tire tread had failed and damaged the A320 wing flap. We have this picture of the group instrumental in completing the repair work on time.  Issue dated January 1993 - After 40 years service, Capt. Jim Lamb, retired. We have this picture of his well wishers.  Issue dated February 1998 -  Hank Fleming, Lead Cargo Service Agent at New York celebrates 30 years service with fellow co-workers. LaGuardia staff hold a farewell party for 30 year service celebrant Charlie Saladino.Issue dated March 1993 -  Here we have this picture of the Industry Travel staff located at Dorval. |
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Star Alliance News
 United Airlines, facing rising fuel costs and a weak US economy, announced a dramatic downsizing that will see its Ted service discontinued and include the retirement over the next 19 months of 100 aircraft with the aim of reducing mainline capacity by a cumulative 17%-18% for 2008-09. |
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Bytes and Pieces
Gimli Glider Discovery Channel "Mayday"A few months ago we were discussing aircraft 604 finally retiring to the desert. The Discovery Channel has a documentary covering the flight that made history and it very well done. I missed it when it was aired on TV and I figure many of you may have missed it as well. If you did, click on the image below to view the whole six part series in 10 minute segments. TTYL, Alan The Gimli Glider (video) Click on image below to visit the Discovery Channel site. Then click on full screen icon to see full screen video (see red circle below)  |
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Canadi>n/CPAir/PWA, Wardair, etc. Events & People
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Readers Feedback
In NetLetter nr 1023, we published a suggestion from Laura Markley regarding the most number of family members to work for TCA/Air Canada. We received this from Bryan BishopSubject: Family Members I had a sister who married a guy working in sales office in Winnipeg. They had 2 children who both worked for Air Canada. I of course worked for Air Canada as a CSA in YWG and met my wife there who was also a CSA in YWG. That's 5 so far. I have another nephew who works on the ramp at YWG and I also have a cousin who worked for AC. Some are retired and some are still working. The only one passed always is my brother-in-law. That makes a total of 7 family members with AC. Bryan Bishop And not to be outdone, Carol Vickers sends us this list - Subject: Number of family member with Air Canada Hi Vesta, Please first let me thank you, Terry and Alan for the fine job you do putting the NetLetter together. I keep my son informed and many of my air enthusiast family and friends entertained with stories. I cut and paste a lot! I am writing about the number of family members employed by Air Canada. My son is still an active employee in Maintenance in YYZ. All the following worked or are still working at Pearson. I am a retired Customer Sales and Service Agent. My ex-husband I met at the airport and he was a Station Attendant. My son-in-law worked for a good period of time until moving too far north to commute. My nephew worked as a Baggage Agent but is now retired. He met a Customer Sales and Service Agent, married and had two children. She is still an active employee. His cousin on his father's side is a retired Customer Sales and Service Agent. He is extended family and I don't know if that counts. That makes six and my nephew's cousin, or my brother-in-law's nephew makes seven. I wonder if this might bring a response. Keep up the good work. Kindest Regards, Carol Vickers From: Karin Fulcher Subject: Re. Family Members working for AC My father in law Victor Fulcher was one of the early employees of TCA - I believe originally based out of Montreal, but then back and forth across the country during his 25 year career. His son Robert (my late husband) was a "ramp rat" (his words, no disrespect to others working in that capacity!!) for Air Canada in Montreal while he learned to fly at Cartierville. Bob then went on to fly for Canadian Pacific, CPAir, Canadi>n Airlines International during his 34 year career before taking early retirement due to illness in 1996. His youngest brother Bill, and his wife Patricia are both former and current passenger service agents for AC out of Vancouver. My son Will interviewed for Air Canada about three years ago, but Skyservice Airlines called first!! The flying tradition continues. Karin Fulcher And on another subject - From: Jack Stephens Subject: My Viscount Years Hi Vesta, Terry and Alan: Jack Stephens here in Calgary. Enjoyed Ray Sarrinen's "The Viscount Years And The Winnipeg Spirit". My Dad was an Inspector too and worked with Ray. Dad was doing an acceptance check on a recently arrived Viscount from the UK. He shone his flashlight up inside the tail and found a wooden board wedged from side to side. I recall him wondering what would have happened if it had worked loose over the Atlantic and fell on the control cables. Then there was the day we all crowded the second storey shop windows and watched a Viscount crash land. The nose wheel would not come down.The fire crews spread a ribbon of foam down the centre of the runway. He came in slow and after the main wheels touched, the nose dropped nicely on the foam and the aircraft came to a gentle stop. The low props corkscrewed, but thankfully no fire. I often wonder about the guys I worked with in the Accessory Shop. Perhaps my story would trigger some fond memories. The Vickers Viscount was a fine aircraft and indeed there was a great Winnipeg spirit! Sincerely, Jack Stephens (Anyone interested in the Viscount can view a web site at www.vickersviscount.net) |
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Found on the Internet
Zimbabwe is understood to have visited Russia in February to sign a contract to purchase three llyushin ll-96 airliners for the state-controlled flag carrier Air Zimbabwe for delivery in 2009 and 2010. Although Russian lessor llyushin Finance Corporation (l FC) is reported to be providing most of the funds for the $223 million deal the Zimbabwean Government has put up the cash to covert the deposits around a third of the total purchase price. The total deal is valued at almost seven trillion Zimbabwe Dollars( Z$6,848,094,000,000) when based on the official conversion rate (USS1= Z$30,035) as at March '10, 2008. |
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Terry's Travel Tips
 No tips to give out this issue. |
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Smilie
 A man telephoned the United airline office at Denver International Airport and asked,"How long does it take to fly to Colorado Springs?" The clerk said, "Just a minute." "Thank you," the man said and hung up. |
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Vesta's Corner
Capt. Lynn Barton was the pilot of the first aircraft to arrive at Heathrow's Terminal 5 when it opened for business on March 27th. Lynn, who previously earned her place in British Airways history as their first women pilot was in charge of BA025 from Hong Kong. Lynn became the carrier's first female pilot in 1987 on joining the B747 fleet.. There are now 175 female pilots among its 3,200 pilots.
This weeks postcard from my collection - FIESTA EN ESPANA. |
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Air Canada - our first 70 years
We have received several pictures of aircraft from our readers - here's one of the North Star - and a photograph of our first Viscount at the Vickers plant in Weybridge U.K. The last RB211 engine overhauled by Air Canada, bringing to an end a long relationship with Rolls Royce which dates back to 1943 when our Lancaster's were equipped with Merlin engines. 1992 - Oct 25th - Launch of a strategic alliance with United Airlines. 1993
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TCA/AC People Gallery
Musings from "Horizons" -Issue dated December 1992 - Tech Ops tests skills on an when fin 211 took off from YUL, the pilot complained of a slight vibration. The main tire tread had failed and damaged the A320 wing flap. We have this picture of the group instrumental in completing the repair work on time. Issue dated January 1993 - After 40 years service, Capt. Jim Lamb, retired. We have this picture of his well wishers. Issue dated February 1998 - Hank Fleming, Lead Cargo Service Agent at New York celebrates 30 years service with fellow co-workers.LaGuardia staff hold a farewell party for 30 year service celebrant Charlie Saladino.Issue dated March 1993 - Here we have this picture of the Industry Travel staff located at Dorval. |
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Star Alliance News
United Airlines, facing rising fuel costs and a weak US economy, announced a dramatic downsizing that will see its Ted service discontinued and include the retirement over the next 19 months of 100 aircraft with the aim of reducing mainline capacity by a cumulative 17%-18% for 2008-09. |
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Bytes and Pieces
Gimli Glider Discovery Channel "Mayday"A few months ago we were discussing aircraft 604 finally retiring to the desert. The Discovery Channel has a documentary covering the flight that made history and it very well done. I missed it when it was aired on TV and I figure many of you may have missed it as well. If you did, click on the image below to view the whole six part series in 10 minute segments. TTYL, Alan The Gimli Glider (video) Click on image below to visit the Discovery Channel site. Then click on full screen icon to see full screen video (see red circle below) |
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Canadi>n/CPAir/PWA, Wardair, etc. Events & People
1990 - Dec - Service YVR-TPE-HKG DC-10 launched. 1992 Direct service YVR-TPE with DC-10 equipment, replaced by B747 in 1998.  Here is a picture of the Canadi>n staff in Taiwan.Musings from the "Canadia>n Flyer" Issue dated July 1998 -  Going to the Great Wall of China. A group of Canadia>n employees paid a visit, here is their picture. The whole staff at Sao Paulo celebrates their supervisors birthday.Unfortunately, there is no identification of the staff. From the issue dated August 1998, we relate the story of "The Arctic Fox", as written by Andrew Geider - corporate archivist - Northern exploits made MacInnis famous. Jerry Maclnnis was born on June 2, 1914, in Amherst, N.S. When he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 he was chosen for observer training, but a year later he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer. His first posting was to 117 Squadron on the East Coast on anti-submarine duties. Holding both an observer's and pilot's wings, he flew Cansos over the North Atlantic. In July 1944, Maclnnis was made Flight Lieutenant and was seconded to British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) as an Instrument Flight Instructor. BOAC was then operating Liberators across the Atlantic. Maclnnis instructed the British Crews until 1950 when he returned to Canada. He joined Maritime Central Airways (MCA) in 1951 to fly their war-surplus DC3s. With his experience on British and American multi-engine aircraft and his navigational skills, Maclnnis was chosen to land the site construction parties that would build the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line radar chain. When MCA got the contract in 1955, it was to provide transport for 17 of the larger radar stations. Flying out of Mont Joli, Que., Maclnnis used MCA s DC3s to take advance parties to all 17 locations. Equipped with skis as well as wheels, his strategy was to fly the DC3 low over the barren terrain to the coordinates given. Then he would circle until the engineers decided whether or not to establish a camp there. Maclnnis and his DC3 became well known for shuttling between the railhead and the sites in the worst weather, carrying survey teams and their equipment. He looked for safe landing places,fresh water sources, gravel for the runways- anything that would tacilitate construction for another DEW radar base. The initial landing was especially dangerous for Maclnnis, for he had not known how deep or compact the snow was. That Maclnnis would be given the nickname "The Arctic Fox" by the engineers he flew is a testament to his exceptional skill. Establishing a base camp meant Maclnnis would drop off three men on the initial trip with as much food and fuel as the aircraft would carry, returning later with more supplies. As there were no radios, the rnen left behind knew that their lives depended on Maclnnis finding them again and being able to land once more. The stories of Maclnnis' exploits among the construction crews grew with every month. Once when co-operating with a party of engineers looking for a landing site, he heard one remark: "I wish I knew the precise height of that peak." At that moment, Maclnnis dived onto the site, roared across the terrain and pointing to the altimeter said: "Take 50 feet off that!" The DEW Line completed, Maclnnis was transferred to Montreal as MCA began to expand into transatlantic charter flights In 1959, he became Senior Air Carrier Inspector for the Department of Transport and in 1974 was promoted to Chief of Flight Operations in Ottawa. In l973 he was inducted into Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame. Maclnnis passed away in 1991.  (This picture commentary states "DC3", but it looks like a DC4 to us - eds) |
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Readers Feedback
In NetLetter nr 1023, we published a suggestion from Laura Markley regarding the most number of family members to work for TCA/Air Canada. We received this from Bryan BishopSubject: Family Members I had a sister who married a guy working in sales office in Winnipeg. They had 2 children who both worked for Air Canada. I of course worked for Air Canada as a CSA in YWG and met my wife there who was also a CSA in YWG. That's 5 so far. I have another nephew who works on the ramp at YWG and I also have a cousin who worked for AC. Some are retired and some are still working. The only one passed always is my brother-in-law. That makes a total of 7 family members with AC. Bryan Bishop And not to be outdone, Carol Vickers sends us this list - Subject: Number of family member with Air Canada Hi Vesta, Please first let me thank you, Terry and Alan for the fine job you do putting the NetLetter together. I keep my son informed and many of my air enthusiast family and friends entertained with stories. I cut and paste a lot! I am writing about the number of family members employed by Air Canada. My son is still an active employee in Maintenance in YYZ. All the following worked or are still working at Pearson. I am a retired Customer Sales and Service Agent. My ex-husband I met at the airport and he was a Station Attendant. My son-in-law worked for a good period of time until moving too far north to commute. My nephew worked as a Baggage Agent but is now retired. He met a Customer Sales and Service Agent, married and had two children. She is still an active employee. His cousin on his father's side is a retired Customer Sales and Service Agent. He is extended family and I don't know if that counts. That makes six and my nephew's cousin, or my brother-in-law's nephew makes seven. I wonder if this might bring a response. Keep up the good work. Kindest Regards, Carol Vickers From: Karin Fulcher Subject: Re. Family Members working for AC My father in law Victor Fulcher was one of the early employees of TCA - I believe originally based out of Montreal, but then back and forth across the country during his 25 year career. His son Robert (my late husband) was a "ramp rat" (his words, no disrespect to others working in that capacity!!) for Air Canada in Montreal while he learned to fly at Cartierville. Bob then went on to fly for Canadian Pacific, CPAir, Canadi>n Airlines International during his 34 year career before taking early retirement due to illness in 1996. His youngest brother Bill, and his wife Patricia are both former and current passenger service agents for AC out of Vancouver. My son Will interviewed for Air Canada about three years ago, but Skyservice Airlines called first!! The flying tradition continues. Karin Fulcher And on another subject - From: Jack Stephens Subject: My Viscount Years Hi Vesta, Terry and Alan: Jack Stephens here in Calgary. Enjoyed Ray Sarrinen's "The Viscount Years And The Winnipeg Spirit". My Dad was an Inspector too and worked with Ray. Dad was doing an acceptance check on a recently arrived Viscount from the UK. He shone his flashlight up inside the tail and found a wooden board wedged from side to side. I recall him wondering what would have happened if it had worked loose over the Atlantic and fell on the control cables. Then there was the day we all crowded the second storey shop windows and watched a Viscount crash land. The nose wheel would not come down.The fire crews spread a ribbon of foam down the centre of the runway. He came in slow and after the main wheels touched, the nose dropped nicely on the foam and the aircraft came to a gentle stop. The low props corkscrewed, but thankfully no fire. I often wonder about the guys I worked with in the Accessory Shop. Perhaps my story would trigger some fond memories. The Vickers Viscount was a fine aircraft and indeed there was a great Winnipeg spirit! Sincerely, Jack Stephens (Anyone interested in the Viscount can view a web site at www.vickersviscount.net) |
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Found on the Internet
Zimbabwe is understood to have visited Russia in February to sign a contract to purchase three llyushin ll-96 airliners for the state-controlled flag carrier Air Zimbabwe for delivery in 2009 and 2010. Although Russian lessor llyushin Finance Corporation (l FC) is reported to be providing most of the funds for the $223 million deal the Zimbabwean Government has put up the cash to covert the deposits around a third of the total purchase price. The total deal is valued at almost seven trillion Zimbabwe Dollars( Z$6,848,094,000,000) when based on the official conversion rate (USS1= Z$30,035) as at March '10, 2008. |
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Terry's Travel Tips
No tips to give out this issue. |
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Smilie
A man telephoned the United airline office at Denver International Airport and asked,"How long does it take to fly to Colorado Springs?" The clerk said, "Just a minute." "Thank you," the man said and hung up. |
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Vesta's Corner
We have had two photographs of female flight crew sent to us. Barbara Swyers taken in 1988 and Diane Rothberg, but no date.I found this article on the internet and thought it would be of interest -  Florida Researcher Proposes Wingless Flight An engineer at the University of Florida has unveiled a design for a "flying saucer" that can take off vertically, however, and fly, and it has no wings or propeller - it doesn't have any moving parts at all. "This is a very novel concept, and if it's successful, it will be revolutionary," said Subrata Roy, the ship's inventor, who applied for a patent on it last week."If successful, we will have an aircraft, a saucer and a helicopter all in one embodiment. " The saucer is propelled by a force called magnetohydrodynamics, which is created when a current or a magnetic field is passed through a fluid. By interacting with the atmosphere, the force is able to create lift and momentum and provides stability against wind gusts. The ship's surface is partially hollow and continuously curved, like an electromagnetic flying bundt pan. Unfortunately, it seems the technique is likely to work better in space, where pesky things like gravity and drag are minimized. Roy, however, is hopeful that his creation can prove useful here on Earth. He calls it a "wingless electromagnetic air vehicle," or WEAV, and plans to build a six-inch-wide prototype powered by on-board batteries. |
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Air Canada - our first 70 years
1993 - Nov - Service between YYZ-LHR and New Delhi introduced. 1994
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TCA/AC People Gallery
Musings from "Horizons" Issue dated January 1994 In May 1993 a lease agreement was made with Polynesian Airlines to supply a B767 with 15 pilots and 2 maintenance engineers.  We have this picture of three lucky employees, Jean-Paul Lalonde, Alan MacLeod and Bob Brown. LHR celebrates New Delhi service.Issue dated March 1994  Houston staff celebrate six months of service. Winnipeg graduates new res agents.Issue dated June 1994  Flight Dispatchers gather at YYZ for a retirement party. The group represented 1,400 years service. Sadly no identificationsIssue dated July 1994  Stetsons and bagpipes for inaugural to Glasgow. Here is a picture of the crew |
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Star Alliance News
 Continental Airlines and United Airlines signed a "framework agreement to cooperate extensively, linking their networks and services worldwide," and CO revealed that it will leave SkyTeam to join Star Alliance with UA and CO planning to form joint venture operations with other Star carriers for transatlantic services as well as flights to Latin America and Asia.United Airlines said it will start requiring minimum stays for nearly all domestic flights beginning in October. It is also raising its cheapest fares by as much as US$90 one-way. The second-largest U.S. carrier said the moves are among a number of changes it is making to combat record high fuel prices. |
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Bytes and Pieces
Bytes take flight - I guess two of my favorite things in life (besides food) are computers and airplanes. So it's not often that I can combine both of them in a photo.In the photo below (click on it to enlarge) they are loading a computer part onto an aircraft and this is in 1956, yes 1956!!!  Can you identify the aircraft that they are loading this on? I don't have a clue myself, but I'm sure some of our sharp eyed readers can identify it. |
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Canadi>n/CPAir/PWA, Wardair, etc. Events & People
From the "Canadian Flyer" In September 2nd 1998 Air Canada pilots walked off their job for 13 days which increased the load factor for Canadi>n by 20 points to 95%. December 1998 - New fleet additions announced. A second B767 from Asiana Airlines due in mid December. an A320 due mid April 1999 and two B767-300 leased from GECAS due fall 1999. A book written by Peter Piggott on Canadian Airlines and titled "Wing Walkers" was released. From the December issue  North America's first female Flight Dispatcher Lori Howard.Oct 24th - The last B737 left Terrace and an F28 of Canadian Regional Airlines takes over at Prince George. We have these pictures.  From the January 1999 issue
 The B747 was fin #881 in Beijing China as this photo shows.
Some highlights for 1998
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Readers Feedback
"Let the NetLetter be your platform, your opportunity, to relive your history working for TCA, AC, CPAir, CAIL, PWA, AirBC etal. Why not share your experiences with us". In NetLetter nr 1023, we published a suggestion from Laura Markley regarding the most number of family members to work for TCA/Air Canada etal. We came across the following photograph in the "Canadi>n Flyer" issue March 1999 of the Randall family.  Not included was Bob jr's wife Eileen who was a 30 year veteran flight attendant and their daughter, 17 at the time, was in the air cadets presumably headed for a career in the majors.From: Fred Coyle Subject: The NetLetter #1025 What a wonderful story about Gerry MacInnis! I knew him well from my early days with MCA up north before I joined TCA in 1954. I can only think it was contributed by Gordon Girvan who was also with MCA back then, followed by a long and distinguished career with Nordair. Gerry was also affectionately known as "Speedbird" at MCA because of his service with BOAC. And by the way, that's not a DC-3 in the photo, but a DC-4. I'm sure many people will point that out. I love reading the Netletter. Keep up the great work Vesta, Terry and Alan. It's fun to enlarge the photos to see who I can recognize. I'd like to see more of earlier days, but I suppose you depend upon what is sent to you for that. Best wishes, Fred Coyle From: Gordon Girvan Subject: Netletter #1025 - Gerry MacInnis piece Looking through issue #1025 brought back a lot of memories for me. I worked with Gerry on both the Pinetree and Dewline operation. I recall a DC-3 trip from Goose Bay (YYR) to Saglek Bay and return with Gerry as the Captain in 1953. As best I can recall after 55 years it was a bit exciting as we approached Saglek as we were in a fjord of some kind and you had to look up to see the hills quite close on both sides of the aircraft. I also recall when we got over the bay itself we had to do a tight turn inside the hills to get back to the runway threshold. I was left with the impression that it would be better to go into Saglek during daylight hours rather than at night. On the way back to YYR Gerry let me sit in the Captain's seat and fly the DC-3 for about 1:30 and when I would wander off course or cause the a/c to 'porpoise' , he let me work my way out of it without taking the controls back. He was an excellent pilot and a really great guy in all respects. I found a small picture of him outside our office in YYR which I have attached. He is on the left (Out of uniform).  Gordon Girvan (Ex MCA & Nordair) From: Don Palmer Subject: Jerry MacInnis Many thanks for the article on Jerry MacInnis, The Arctic Fox in NetLetter #1025. In the 2 years I worked for Maritime Central, I flew a great deal with Jerry on DC3 on skiis in winter and Canso in summer. It was the best flying ever. He was, indeed, all that the article claimed, and contributed significantly to Canada's aviation history as did his contemporaries at MCA, Frank Henley, Rolly Langlois and Sheldon Luck, all with distinguished careers and a wealth of bush flying experience great boat pilots. Jerry and Frank were very competitive in MCA, but Rolly and Shel more laid back. An interesting incident in Jerry's career was when flying a Vickers Viking with BWIA he lost an engine somewhere over the Caribbean. When asked by Company radio if he had feathered the engine, he said he couldn't because the engine had fallen off the wing. The picture of the DC4 included was possibly taken at Mont Joli or even Moncton. No trees at northern radar sites. Cheers, & Best Regards Don Palmer l |
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Terry's Travel Tips
 Summer Sizzlers Begin With RumRabbitDon't let summer peak prices have you guard your wallet. Membership does indeed have its advantages to savings. Let the Rabbit hop in and help you plan a holiday
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Vesta's Corner
We have had two photographs of female flight crew sent to us.Barbara Swyers taken in 1988and Diane Rothberg, but no date.I found this article on the internet and thought it would be of interest - Florida Researcher Proposes Wingless Flight An engineer at the University of Florida has unveiled a design for a "flying saucer" that can take off vertically, however, and fly, and it has no wings or propeller - it doesn't have any moving parts at all. "This is a very novel concept, and if it's successful, it will be revolutionary," said Subrata Roy, the ship's inventor, who applied for a patent on it last week."If successful, we will have an aircraft, a saucer and a helicopter all in one embodiment. " The saucer is propelled by a force called magnetohydrodynamics, which is created when a current or a magnetic field is passed through a fluid. By interacting with the atmosphere, the force is able to create lift and momentum and provides stability against wind gusts. The ship's surface is partially hollow and continuously curved, like an electromagnetic flying bundt pan. Unfortunately, it seems the technique is likely to work better in space, where pesky things like gravity and drag are minimized. Roy, however, is hopeful that his creation can prove useful here on Earth. He calls it a "wingless electromagnetic air vehicle," or WEAV, and plans to build a six-inch-wide prototype powered by on-board batteries. |
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Air Canada - our first 70 years
1993 - Nov - Service between YYZ-LHR and New Delhi introduced. 1994
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Star Alliance News
Continental Airlines and United Airlines signed a "framework agreement to cooperate extensively, linking their networks and services worldwide," and CO revealed that it will leave SkyTeam to join Star Alliance with UA and CO planning to form joint venture operations with other Star carriers for transatlantic services as well as flights to Latin America and Asia.United Airlines said it will start requiring minimum stays for nearly all domestic flights beginning in October. It is also raising its cheapest fares by as much as US$90 one-way. The second-largest U.S. carrier said the moves are among a number of changes it is making to combat record high fuel prices. |
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Bytes and Pieces
Bytes take flight - I guess two of my favorite things in life (besides food) are computers and airplanes. So it's not often that I can combine both of them in a photo.In the photo below (click on it to enlarge) they are loading a computer part onto an aircraft and this is in 1956, yes 1956!!! Can you identify the aircraft that they are loading this on? I don't have a clue myself, but I'm sure some of our sharp eyed readers can identify it. |
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Canadi>n/CPAir/PWA, Wardair, etc. Events & People
From the "Canadian Flyer" In September 2nd 1998 Air Canada pilots walked off their job for 13 days which increased the load factor for Canadi>n by 20 points to 95%. December 1998 - New fleet additions announced. A second B767 from Asiana Airlines due in mid December. an A320 due mid April 1999 and two B767-300 leased from GECAS due fall 1999. A book written by Peter Piggott on Canadian Airlines and titled "Wing Walkers" was released. From the December issue North America's first female Flight Dispatcher Lori Howard.Oct 24th - The last B737 left Terrace and an F28 of Canadian Regional Airlines takes over at Prince George. We have these pictures. From the January 1999 issue
The B747 was fin #881 in Beijing China as this photo shows.
Some highlights for 1998
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Readers Feedback
"Let the NetLetter be your platform, your opportunity, to relive your history working for TCA, AC, CPAir, CAIL, PWA, AirBC etal. Why not share your experiences with us". In NetLetter nr 1023, we published a suggestion from Laura Markley regarding the most number of family members to work for TCA/Air Canada etal. We came across the following photograph in the "Canadi>n Flyer" issue March 1999 of the Randall family. Not included was Bob jr's wife Eileen who was a 30 year veteran flight attendant and their daughter, 17 at the time, was in the air cadets presumably headed for a career in the majors.From: Fred Coyle Subject: The NetLetter #1025 What a wonderful story about Gerry MacInnis! I knew him well from my early days with MCA up north before I joined TCA in 1954. I can only think it was contributed by Gordon Girvan who was also with MCA back then, followed by a long and distinguished career with Nordair. Gerry was also affectionately known as "Speedbird" at MCA because of his service with BOAC. And by the way, that's not a DC-3 in the photo, but a DC-4. I'm sure many people will point that out. I love reading the Netletter. Keep up the great work Vesta, Terry and Alan. It's fun to enlarge the photos to see who I can recognize. I'd like to see more of earlier days, but I suppose you depend upon what is sent to you for that. Best wishes, Fred Coyle From: Gordon Girvan Subject: Netletter #1025 - Gerry MacInnis piece Looking through issue #1025 brought back a lot of memories for me. I worked with Gerry on both the Pinetree and Dewline operation. I recall a DC-3 trip from Goose Bay (YYR) to Saglek Bay and return with Gerry as the Captain in 1953. As best I can recall after 55 years it was a bit exciting as we approached Saglek as we were in a fjord of some kind and you had to look up to see the hills quite close on both sides of the aircraft. I also recall when we got over the bay itself we had to do a tight turn inside the hills to get back to the runway threshold. I was left with the impression that it would be better to go into Saglek during daylight hours rather than at night. On the way back to YYR Gerry let me sit in the Captain's seat and fly the DC-3 for about 1:30 and when I would wander off course or cause the a/c to 'porpoise' , he let me work my way out of it without taking the controls back. He was an excellent pilot and a really great guy in all respects. I found a small picture of him outside our office in YYR which I have attached. He is on the left (Out of uniform). Gordon Girvan (Ex MCA & Nordair) From: Don Palmer Subject: Jerry MacInnis Many thanks for the article on Jerry MacInnis, The Arctic Fox in NetLetter #1025. In the 2 years I worked for Maritime Central, I flew a great deal with Jerry on DC3 on skiis in winter and Canso in summer. It was the best flying ever. He was, indeed, all that the article claimed, and contributed significantly to Canada's aviation history as did his contemporaries at MCA, Frank Henley, Rolly Langlois and Sheldon Luck, all with distinguished careers and a wealth of bush flying experience great boat pilots. Jerry and Frank were very competitive in MCA, but Rolly and Shel more laid back. An interesting incident in Jerry's career was when flying a Vickers Viking with BWIA he lost an engine somewhere over the Caribbean. When asked by Company radio if he had feathered the engine, he said he couldn't because the engine had fallen off the wing. The picture of the DC4 included was possibly taken at Mont Joli or even Moncton. No trees at northern radar sites. Cheers, & Best Regards Don Palmer l |
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Terry's Travel Tips
Summer Sizzlers Begin With RumRabbitDon't let summer peak prices have you guard your wallet. Membership does indeed have its advantages to savings. Let the Rabbit hop in and help you plan a holiday
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