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Air Canada News
Our first 70 years
As this is Air Canada's 70 year anniversary, we continue to celebrate the achievements and innovations and events of our heritage.
1940
1941
1942
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Remember When - 40 years ago
 The first non stop flight for T.C.A.First the correspondence with Capt, Cartwright from TCA in 1957 - Dear Captain Cartwright: You are probably aware that Flight 5/June 1st,(1957) which we understand you will be taking to Vancouver, will be launched with considerable ceremony from Toronto and we thought it best "to give you some of the details beforehand. As this is an important flight, being the first non-stop in TCA history, both headquarters and we here would like to get as much publicity, as possible by 'Way of the press, TV, etc. We have arranged for a giveaway to the passengers in the form of an hourglass appropriately inscribed, and these will be placed on board to be given to all passengers and crew members enroute. We are also asking the attendants on board to pass around a form, see attached, and would appreciate if you or the First Officer would cooperate by, announcing the official take-off time in order to help the passengers determine the E.T.A. in Vancouver. We do not wish to involve you too much in this contest except to ensure that you will be the final judge on arrival in Vancouver, as indicated in the instructions. There will be photographers and CBC representatives meeting your flight at Vancouver and to obtain the maximum publicity I would like to suggest that the presentation of the watch be made after the passengers disembark from the aircraft. We are also presenting a gold wristwatch, appropriately inscribed on the back, to Mayor Fred Hume of Vancouver, as well as a cigarette lighter, gift of the City of Toronto to Mayor Hume. We would appreciate if you would, after landing at Vancouver, contact Al Carlson, Regional Public Relations Officer, who will arrange to present these to Mayor Hume. By copy of this letter to Mr. Carlson I am asking him to make the necessary arrangements. D .. F .. Barclay Regional Public Relations Officer cc: Reg. Public Relations Officer - Vancouver Captain Roy Cartwright - c/o Crew Routing, Dorval TRANS-CANADA AIR LINES E.D.T. INAUGURAL FLIGHT - JUNE 1, 1957 PACIFIC MERCURY NON-STOP SERVICE TORONTO - VANCOUVER SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 10.15 a.m. - Georgetown Girls Pipe Band - arrival and parade on ramp. 10.30 a.m. - Passengers check in for Pacific Mercury Flight 5 - TCA check-in counter. 10.35 a.m. - Arrival Flight 5 from Montreal. (A red carpet and decorated passenger stand will be rolled up to the aircraft for send-off ceremonies) 10.45 a.m. - God Save The Queen Acting Mayor, Mrs. Jean Newman, accompanied by Mr. Frank Young, TCA Central Region Operations manager, will be escorted to platform where inaugural ceremonies are to take place. Mr. Young was co-pilot of the first trans-continental flight on April 1st, 1939. D. F. Barclay, Reg. PRO, will introduce Mr. Young and Mrs. Newman. - Following her address Mrs. Newman will autograph, on behalf of the City of Toronto, a message to the City of Vancouver. This reads; GREETINGS FROM TORONTO TO VANCOUVER FIRST NON-STOP FLIGHT - 8 HOURS (President, Toronto City Council) 10.50 a.m. - A cigarette lighter, gift of the City to Mayor Fred Hume of Vancouver, will be presented to Captain Roy Cartwright of Flt. 5 for delivery in Vancouver. TCA stewardess will present flowers to Mrs. Newman. 10.55 a.m. 11.05 a.m. 11.45 a.m. Passengers board flight. TCA stewardesses and band form "Guard of Honour". (Prior to departure individual pictures of passengers and crew will be taken) Departure of Flight 5 for Vancouver. ******* Guests proceed to Toronto Flying Club for refreshments and luncheon. |
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Nice to know
New Additional Taxes for International Departures from Barbados. Barbados Passenger Service Charge is BBD 55.00 and Barbados Security Fee is BBD 5.00.
Pass travelers with a departure out of the UK will be charged the new British Air Passenger Duty of GBP 40.00 per passenger. |
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Found on the Internet
Maisa Hazeem is the first Bahraini woman to quality as a first officer with Gulf Air when she emerged from the cockpit of the Airbus A320 having successfully completed her final check. and our chief pilot Vesta sends this - Circumnavigation Flight At Halfway Point Barrington Irving, the 23-year-old Miami pilot who's trying to become the youngest pilot ever to circumnavigate the world, was, at this writing, in Calcutta and about half way through the trip. He left Miami on March 26 and had hoped to be back by now but weather and maintenance checks on his Columbia 400 have combined to slow the schedule somewhat. He's now hoping to get back to Miami by the end of this month and, after flying through sandstorms and being stalled by a tropical depression over India, he's facing what might be his biggest challenge on the trip -- his longest leg, a 1,530-nm trip from Japan to Alaska. Irving will hopscotch through Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan before launching from Asahikawa for the 12-hour trip over the North Pacific to Shemya, in the Aleutians. The aircraft has extra tanks and an estimated range of 1,900 nm. From Shemya it's on to Anchorage, Seattle, Denver and Houston before the final leg to Miami. Irving, who was born in Jamaica but grew up in the inner city of Miami, said he's making the flight to try to inspire other minority and inner-city kids. |
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Star Alliance News
OAG, the global travel and transport company is providing a fully hosted flight status alert service to the Star Alliance network. This is available through the recently relaunched Star Alliance web site and provides passengers with a service that alerts them to changes to the scheduled departure and arrival of a flight. Flights on any member can be tracked irrespective of where they are based.
The traditional water cannon salute given by airport fire crews to aircraft on their first or retiring crew members went badly wrong recently at Washington Dulles Airport. The honour was being extended to the captain of a United Airlines B777-200 prior to his retirement, but the emergency crews inadvertently used fire retardant foam instead of water. |
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Reader Feedback
 We are posting this to obtain a Navigation part which was used on the DC-8 Aircraft as well as many others and not only Air Canada.
These two parts are: Periscopic Sextant and an Astro Dome. You can assist Phil Pawsey by contacting him via E-Mail at the following address, |
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Where are they now?
Dash8-102 c/n 119 fin 167 C-GTCO Canadian Regional fin nr 856 now with North Cariboo Flying Service of Fort St. Johns, Canada
A340-300 C-FYKX c/n 190 fin 901 returned to Maple Leaf Finance of Switzerland now with Swiss International. |
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Terry's Travel Tips
Our chief pilot Vesta sends this information - Wi-Fi at airports is handy. You can surf the Web or check e-mail while awaiting your flight. Here at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Wi-Fi is free. Unfortunately, not all airports are so generous.
If you're planning a trip, see the Airport Wireless Internet Access Guide (U.S. airports only) at TravelPost. It tells you if Wi-Fi is available at a particular airport. It also tells you where to go to connect. TravelPost lists pricing, if you have to pay. |
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Smilies
 More on why an aircraft is better than a woman or a man -- Aircraft come with manuals - Aircraft have strict weight and balance limits. - Aircraft don't whine unless something is really wrong. - Aircraft don't really mind how many other aircraft you have flown. - Aircraft don't care if you are late. - It's always OK to use tie downs on your aircraft. and our chief pilot Vesta came up with this one - A Hollywood director reportedly was detained by the TSA at LAX after he said the reason for his visit was to "shoot a pilot," short for filming a pilot TV show. |
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Nice to know
AVIS Rent A Car
This special offer is for all active and retired ACE family employees. Full details for retirees are available on the Air Canada Employee Portal under My Retirement: Travel: Employee Discounts There you will find the AVIS Worldwide Discount Numbers (AWD #), which you will need in order to benefit most from the program. For information and reservations, call 1 800-TRY-AVIS (1 800-879-2847) (French speaking customers can dial 1 800-321-3652) or visit AVIS online through the links provided on the Portal. Until December 31, 2007, Aeroplan partner, Park 'N Fly, is offering all active and retired ACE family employees an opportunity to save 25 per cent when parking at all Park 'N Fly airport facilities across Canada. For a list of airport parking facilities, consult www.parknfly.ca. To take advantage of this discount, present your Air Canada identification card, business card or letter confirming employment and quote the following coupon codes by date:
31735 - Apr 1/07 to Jun 30/07 31736 - Jul 1/07 to Sep 30/07 31737 - Oct 1/07 to Dec 31/07 Shopping?
Our chief pilot Vesta suggests this - Here's a little something to buy because it's Canadian!!! Murphy Aircraft of British Columbia, Canada, will be showing its new four-seat Murphy Yukon kit aircraft to the public for the first time this July at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wis. The Yukon is the original concept design behind two of the company's high-wing taildraggers -- the Super Rebel and the Moose. "We started this aircraft 10 years ago," said Darryl Murphy. "This is an aircraft that will allow families and friends to leave for weekend fishing or camping expeditions -- an 'SUV of the skies.'" The all-metal Yukon is similar in size to the four-seat Moose, but by replacing the Moose's radial engine with a standard 180-hp Lycoming O-360 or equivalent it will burn about half the fuel. It will also be available with either tricycle or tailwheel gear. The aircraft weighs in at 2,550 pounds gross and can carry a payload of 1,150 pounds. |
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Air Canada News
New non-stop seasonal service between Montreal and Rome launched.
Departure of flight AC 892 on June 1st., marks the launch of non-stop seasonal summer service between Montreal and Rome. We will operate daily non-stop flights linking Montreal with the Italian capital. We offer connecting flights via Rome to popular destinations in Italy operated by Air One, a Lufthansa partner airline. "The reintroduction of non-stop Air Canada flights between Montreal and Rome is great news for Montrealers and consumers in eastern Canada who will benefit from substantial time savings during the peak travel season to Italy This additional non-stop service to Europe from Montreal, which complements our year-round Toronto-Rome non-stop flights. Rome is our fifth European destination with non-stop service from Montreal, joining London, Paris, Frankfurt and Munich ." New non-stop service between Ottawa and Las Vegas.
The expansion of our service to Las Vegas by adding year-round, non-stop twice-weekly flights from Ottawa starting September 6, 2007 Air Canada Jazz began flying between Calgary and both Prince George BC and Seattle on June 1st. The Calgary-Prince George route will have one flight per day and the Calgary-Seattle route will be operated twice daily.
Our first 70 years
Trans-Canada Air Lines began service from St. Hubert, Quebec in 1938 using the 10 passenger Lockheed L10 (Electra) until 1941, when the service was moved to Montreal's Dorval airport on September 1st 1941.
Lockheed Aircraft
 Mary Charbonneau - 1946
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First Flight to Burmuda feedback
In NetLetter nr 970 we printed an appeal by Tom Singfield for information regarding a survey flight by a North Star to Bermuda. We reprint some of the readers responses -Gentlemen Thank you all for your input in this matter. I have amalgamated all the comments and notes that you have sent, but at this stage, I am still unable to confirm that the September 1946 flight actually happened. Here is what I know at the moment; The original notice of this flight that I found appears on the excellent Bermuda-online website compiled by Keith Forbes. See http://bermuda-online.org/aviation.htm In this he says that a 5-hour survey flight was flown by a North Star from Montreal to Bermuda in September 1946. Keith also reports to me that he visited the Air Canada archives and found the reference himself.
I don't have the copies but I was told that according to books about TCA/Air Canada, "It Seems Like Only Yesterday"-(1986 by Philip Smith isbn 0-7710-8211-8), "The Adolescence Of An Airline"-(1970 by G.R. McGregor-Pres,1948-1968, nil isbn) , and "Wings Across Time"-(1978 by David H.Collins isbn 0-88760-090-5); ONE REFERENCE was found to a Bermuda proving Flight in Sept 1946 . It would appear that no aircraft type was mentioned. According to various sources including Larry Milberry's book on the North Star, the prototype North Star CF-TEN-X first flew on 15th July 1946. The second aircraft, (when was its first flight?) CF-TEK, was borrowed from the RCAF and delivered straight to TCA from 19th November 1946. It may have been used for proving flights but it could not have been used in September. This therefore leaves CF-TEN-X as the only North Star flying in September 1946. One proving flight by the North Star on record in Sept 1946 was on the 14th when the prototype CF-TEN-X flew from Montreal to California - the first time it had left its home base at Cartieville. Captained by the Canadair chief test pilot. This flight stopped at Toronto, Fort William, Winnipeg, Lethbridge then into Vancouver. Later it flew to Santa Monica to be shown to Douglas Aircraft. Another email told me that "Philip Smith's publication (It seems like only yesterday) said that a proving flt was made to the Caribbean and South America in 1946 in a Lockheed 18-08. (with G R McGregor and a number of VIP 's- before McGregor became Pres.), It listed all the stops, but Bermuda was not included" Could the Bermuda proving flight have been carried out with a different aircraft type, say a Lockheed 18? The first direct air service from Canada by TCA North Stars from Montreal and Toronto to Bermuda was on 1May 1948. (CF-TFF had visited BDA the previous month) I am hoping that further research by the retired TCA/Air Canada gents can get to the bottom of this story. If such a flight did happen, then various questions need answering. What type of aircraft was used? Did the aircraft land in Bermuda? (no mention of a TCA flight found in Bermuda US Base records for 1946) and what was the actual date of the flight? I am told that my request for information has been forwarded to the NP News and I look forward to further correspondence on this subject. Over to you. Tom Singfield Horsham UK and from Ross Smyth - I was a flight despatcher in the Transatlantic Region and kept diaries for most years from 1936 to the present, but unfortunately missed years 1946-1948. My 1949 diary shows me making my annual flight route familiarization flight March 12-13/49 to Bermuda and return Montreal with Captain Gil McLaren and crew. I shall list names of people still living that John Rodger of Pionairs or Air Canada might be able to locate. The uncatalogued records at the Canada Aviation Museum in Ottawa should have this info. Stu Leslie in BC and George Bowes in ON were early transat dispatchers. My good friend Al Blackwood was a pioneer radio officer. Stu Leslie also has an older sister who was stewardess on very early flights. Ron Peel in BC was chief navigator. These early pioneers should be contacted soon as we may not be around too long. Ross Smyth, Montreal (514) 388-7445 PS Air Canada/TCA never flew a Lockheed 18 to Bermuda. From Kip Powick I have it from my sources that the first flight to Bermuda, (route checking) was done in one of the borrowed, unpressurized aircraft. Regards, Kip retired RCAF/WD/CP/AC (We think this subject has now run its course - thank you to our readers - eds) |
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Found on the Internet
A Chinese airline has calculated that it takes a litre of fuel to flush the toilet at 30,000 feet and in attempt to reduce the weight of the aircraft is urging its passengers to use the bathroom before boarding their flight. The energy used for one flush is sufficient for an economical car to run at least 6 miles. GLACIER GIRL TO FINISH MISSION, 65 YEARS LATE A P-38 Lightning that was supposed to be in England in the summer of 1942 will finally get there in a few weeks. The P-38, now known as Glacier Girl, will launch from Teterboro Airport on June 22 on a multi-legged flight to Duxford, England, where it will take part in the Flying Legends Air Show on July 7 and 8. Glacier Girl was among six P-38s and two B-17s that had to land on an ice field in Greenland because of bad weather during a mission called Operation Bolero. All the crews were rescued, but the aircraft were abandoned and slowly melted into the ice. Glacier Girl was recovered from 268 feet of ice and restored to flying condition four years ago and is the only surviving airframe of the so-called Lost Squadron. Ed Shipley, who will be flying a P-51 accompanying Steve Hinton in the P-38 that finishing the mission, dubbed Operation Bolero II, has great symbolic significance. |
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Star Alliance News
Austrian Airlines will implement a new five-zone baggage system that will be tied to destination, not ticket price, on June 1. Austrian says the new system should help passengers more easily calculate the excess baggage charges before embarking on their trip.
The system ranges from Zone 1, which carries a GBP5 (C$7.20) charge per kilogram of excess baggage within Austria to a GBP40 (C$57.67) charge per kilogram for Zone 5, mainly Asia and parts of the Middle East. The airline will also change its sports baggage charges, which will be calculated by size and weight, and no longer by type of sports equipment. Passengers will not be charged for the first pair of skis or snow boards but will have to pay a flat rate of GBP20 (C$28.84) GBP40 (C$57.67) or GBP80 (C$115.34) on continental routes for additional small, medium or large equipment, and GBP40 (C$57.67), GBP80 (C$115.34) or GBP160 (C$230.67) on intercontinental routes. Other charges could apply on partner airlines, and special charges will apply on charter flights. Source: Aviation Daily |
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Terry's Travel Tips
When next visiting Melbourne for leisure, pleasure, or business, experience the sensational newly refurbished Commerce Rooms at the Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne. A symphony of contemporary styling, they feature a queen or king size bed, LCD screen, designer bathroom and a work space with broadband internet access. |
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Smilies
 Our chief pilot - Vesta - supplies this one -AIRLINE ADS DEPICT CORPORATE JETS AS FREELOADERS Cartoon airliners have to wait on the runway while corporate jets zip ahead of them and clog up the airways, causing delays for travelers, according to ads produced by the Air Transport Association |
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Nice to know
The national press advises -
If renewing your Canadian passport, there is no need to have a guarantor, and if applying for a new passport, any Canadian citizen who knows you for a specific length of time and with a valid passport can be a guarantor. Check www.ppt.gov.ca |
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Air Canada News
The forthcoming flight YVR to Sydney on Air Canada, is a whopping 12,484 km.
Jazz plans to begin seasonal service Vancouver to Yellowknife effective December 1st using CRJ200 equipment. |
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TCA - Shearwater - YAW
 George Brien has sent us this information - TCA Shearwater -YAW - People and History -1941-1960 Although Moncton ( YQM ) enjoyed TCA service since 15Feb 1940, it wasn't until a new airport at Shearwater, built for the RCAF and completed in 1940, that TCA were able to begin flying into the largest city in the Maritimes. The first flight on 1 Apr 1941, was an extension of the YUL/YQM flight.
One of the early employees was Station Attendant Walt Hines who began his Career in 1943. He advises that the first TCA Airport Manager at YAW would have been Wally Rowans and then followed by Ken Barbour until Austie McMahon took over likely in the early 50's and at his death in the late 50's, "Hec" MacKenzie became the last manager at Shearwater.
Walt's job when hired on would be loading and offloading the one daily flight, a Lockheed14, sometimes with the help of the Station mechanic. Another long time employee at YAW would have been Seldon Drake. By Jul 1944 a flight was added from YHZ to YQY and YHZ/Blissville NB/YUL with Lockheed 14 equipment  Perhaps with CF TCO - purchased in 1939, and with over 17,000 hours on it before being sold in 1947!April 1947, with the new DC3's coming into service, a new trans-border
Route was commenced serving YHZ/YQI/YSJ/BOS, using the Pennfield Airport to serve YSJ  A look at the 1949 timetable indicates up to 8 departures per day Including 4 to YUL via YQM or YSJ, 2 on the Boston route and 3 eastbound.My first view of YAW was in the fall of 1952. I had just returned from a short trip to sea as a Radio Officer, and as it was my first job, I decided to return to Home in YSJ in style. Well, the OW ticket plus transportation to the Airport left me with change from $10.00. The ticket office and Reservations were both located at the Nova Scotian Hotel. Joan Morrison and Lily Wardrophe would have been selling tickets while across the hall in the small Res. office, Art Russell and his staff, including "Mitch" Mitchell would be busy looking at their "stopsale" charts and making bookings. The Airport taxi would also be stopping at the "Lord Nelson" Hotel, which was the TCA Crew hotel, and then down to the harbour for the short ride across to Dartmouth in the small Car ferry. From there it was a short ride out to Eastern Passage and the Airport. If you were flight crew. You would be waiting for Doug Hamilton to pick you up in his big black crew cab. You would also be familiar with the "Victory Lounge" at the Hotel!! Check in Agents may have included Dave Murdock, Bob Brown or Ralph Wilcox  I had never been at an airport before and had never seen an aircraft up close but sure it would have been a DC3 like this.At that time I didn't think that by the spring of 1954, I would again be back at YAW but this time as a TCA employee. Meanwhile, back in 1954, the Station would be handling many more flights including North Star service to LHR and YUL/YYZ. Austie McMahon was the Station Manager with Melba Osbourne as his secretary. By this time Walt Hines was Ramp Controller and Ramp Agents and Station Attendants would include Tommy Dunn, George Roberts, Bob Currie, Vince Campbell, Bud Soward, Jerry Lilley and others. Radio operators at the time were Cec Mannette, Gerry McGloin, Fritz Collicutt and Wally Walters. Mechanics included Ernie Hunter and Archie Driscoll. In Apr 1954. myself along with Don MacLennan and Art Rogers arrived in YHZ where we would spend a month on upgrade training before reporting to RCAF Greenwood to be part of the staff handling YAW diversions We would stay at the Belmont Hotel in Dartmouth, and would take the "Bluebell" bus for the 15-minute ride out to Shearwater. The bus did not go on to the base so we would have to make the 1/4 mile walk up the hill to the terminal. We would spend the time learning the duties of Load agent and also Passenger Agent check-in procedures from the friendly group of employees there. I remember the Stn Mgr Austie McMahon as a "portly" chap who always had a cigar in his mouth and a great sense of humour. The airport, being less than a mile from the Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean was usually plagued by morning and evening fog during spring and summer. So much so that our small staff of 3 Operations Agents. 3 Station Attendants and a Manager, that were assigned to RCAF Greenwood , soon found out we were working 16 hour days handling diverted flights. The upside was that on sunny days, Flight Dx would clear us for 24 hours at a time to enjoy time off. What other company could you work for that gave you every sunny day off!! Transport Canada, TCA and Halifax realized that Shearwater was not the best choice for a reliable, fog free airline service, and a new site at Kelly Lake, recommended by TCA, was selected. Construction began in 1955 and by Jun 1, 1960 it was completed. Peter Piggott"s "National Treasure, The history of TCA" tells the final story of TCA at YAW. "On July 31,1960 as TCA Viscount flight 426 departed on schedule at 2345 for YQY, Station Manager 'Hec' MacKenzie and crew of 52 men began moving out to the new airport 30 miles away. Ramp equipment, vehicles and office furnishing all had to be in place by the next morning when flight 400 from YYZ touched down to disgorge its passengers." John Cavill, Public Relations, YHZ recalls getting a call from an Officer at YAW in the early 80's. They had discovered some old cabinets containing passenger check- in material i.e. boarding passes, baggage tags etc. with the TCA logo. John was quick to forward these items along to AC archives in YUL for safe keeping.  Thanks to NS Pionair Director Garland Snelgrove for the use of his email list, and especially Doug Gallupe, Greg Corbett and Jerry Lilley, for helping me remember staff names from over 50 years ago.
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Reader Feedback
Further to NetLetter nr 972 and the article regarding Air Maritimes, Jim Griffith sends this - It looks like I got a good discussion going about, MCA, Maritime Central Airways or was it Maritime Central Airlines and Air Maritimes as part of the lineage of CAI through EPA. Does anybody know if Parsons, and Artic Wings morphed into Transair thence PWA and thus became part of CAI? Many historians have documented the mainline history of TCA and CAI, up to the big "MERGE" but the history of the regionals which eventually became part of Air Canada are less well known. White River Air Services and Great Lakes (Great Shakes) became Air Ontario I think and so on. What about Quebec Air, Nordair and Northwest Territorial? How about the wet coast (pun intended) and the beginnings of Air B.C.? Surely there must be those among us who at one point or another worked for these interesting companies and have stories to tell? How about it Gals and Guys? Jim Griffith Karin Fulcher sends us this information -
I mentioned to you last year about a trip I had taken to the Boeing Assembly plant in Everett - I have been back since then and the first 787 will be rolled out in about 6 weeks if all goes well - it is lovely! However, I recently went on another road trip to McMinnville Oregon - about 30 miles SW of Portland, to the Evergreen Aviation Museum. The highlight of their collection is the Spruce Goose which is almost as big I believe as a 747 - huge!! and to think it is made entirely of wood!! There is also an SR71-Blackbird there, and many other vintage aircraft, all in magnificent condition. Karin Fulcher Help wanted From: Rod Brown Greetings from the UK, Pionairs.
Whilst searching for some information I happened across your account of the B707 crash at Vancouver and the involvement of a Chipmunk aircraft. I am currently writing the definitive history of the Chipmunk following fifty years of research and so this accident report has helped to complete my file on CF-CXQ. May I firstly thank you and the other guys who posted such a full report on the AC website [Photo Galleries] and to secondly enquire whether you might be able to supply me with a shot of the wrecked Chipmunk for inclusion in my histories, this has got to be the most bizarre write-off of a Chipmunk in all of my histories and research. Appreciate your help in my research Best Note: Picture and comments regarding the 707 crash can be found in the ACFamily Photo Gallery at: http://www.acfamily.net/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=22&ppuser=5072
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ACRA Golf
 Rosemary Farrell sends this information -ACRA/Aer Lingus Tournament - Dublin - 22nd September 2007 I am an AC retiree, based in London, England, and am actively involved in our ACRA Badminton and would like a mention in your newsletter about our event taking place on the 22nd September. I am sure there are lots of people, retirees or not, who used to work with AC and would like to take part in our event, plus come to the wonderful city of Dublin and enjoy the Irish hospitality.  Our website is at www.acrabadminton.org. We have a wonderful hotel selected right near the airport in easy reach of the playing facilities. There is also very easy access to downtown Dublin.Rosemary Farrell
ACRA Badminton Secretary |
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Terry's Travel Tips
However, whilst the luggage remains unlocked, the threat of theft is increased.
There is on the market a lock which is quite inexpensive and for which the TSA authorities have a master key, allowing for the unlock and re locking of these locks. They are identified with "TSA" on the bottom of each lock. With these locks in place, there will be no need for authorities to suggest you leave your luggage unlocked. Your copilot has this memory -
After retiring from Air Canada in 1984, I received employment with a local company operating a fleet of executive jets. Together with several other AC retirees we developed software for inventory and maintenance systems. These systems were for sale to other interested organizations that operated their own executive jets. One day our company hosted a seminar in a local hotel at Dorval demonstrating our products to a group from several interested organizations in North America. The presentation was given to a background of hammering and banging due to renovations being carried out in another conference room. At the conclusion of the presentation, the author asked the audience if there were any questions. I immediately jumped up and made apologies for the noise, and revealed that our company had recently sold several packages to interested parties in deepest Africa, and that we were testing out the communications systems. |
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Smilies
 Our chief pilot - Vesta - supplies this one -AIRLINE ADS DEPICT CORPORATE JETS AS FREELOADERS Cartoon airliners have to wait on the runway while corporate jets zip ahead of them and clog up the airways, causing delays for travelers, according to ads produced by the Air Transport Association |
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Personal Memories
I found this picture of me taken at Toronto Island airport and just noticed that I'm standing in front of an "Central Airways' Cessna and this must be way back in 1950-2 era and I started working for T.C.A.in 1953. this of course is for the NetLetter bio of Central airways.if we ever do one.
It was my brother in law, (RAF Squadron leader in WWII) who may have been one of their pilots, I don't remember, that took me for a flight over downtown Toronto for my very first flight in the air.  |
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Air Canada News
New daily non-stop service announced between Vancouver and Sacramento.
The departure on Friday June 15th., of Air Canada flight AC8404 marked the launch of the only daily, non-stop service between Vancouver and Sacramento. Air Canada Jazz now operates double daily flights to California's capital city with 50-seat Bombardier aircraft |
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Our 70 Years
Nov 4th 1946, T.C.A. carried their first one millionth passenger. Mrs L.D.Nelles of Vancouver bound for her home boarded at Toronto and was considered the lucky person.
Mrs Nelles was presented with a wrist watch, suitably inscribed, by Reg Campbell, Traffic Manager of the Central Region, together with stewardess Anita Germaine. At a stop over in Winnipeg, she was photographed with the crew of the aircraft, Capt. Moe Griffiths, F/O D.F.McCabe and stewardess Gloria Hercus.. In October 1946, Joe Sky, Station Manager at Regina invited all amateur Radio Operatos to form a club More happenings in 1946 extracted from "Between Ourselves January 1947 -
Alan MacLeod sends us this - at Moncton during March, 1949. The aircraft is a Lockheed 1808, CF-TCO. TCA didn't normally fly the Ice Patrol during the Spring break up in the Gulf (Maritime Central Airways normally contracted this work), however this particular trip was flown by TCA. Possibly due to MCA having a mechanical or other problem.
Click for larger image
From Left to right
. A Mr. Brown. He was from D.O.T. Marine Division and along to track and chart the ice. First Officer was Peter Hamilton. Peter was the Capt. on the DC8 accident in Toronto years ago. Stewardess is Maxine Bredt, who later married Capt. Bill Bredt. She is living in Hudson, Quebec. Capt was Joe White. Joe recently passed away in May. The flight lasted four to five hours and covered the Gulf of St Lawrence. Maxine reports it was a beautiful sunny day. Phil Pawsey was the flight dispatcher that day based in MonctonA bit of history from 1949. Regards Alan MacLeod |
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Interesting!
Slots at airports are very valuable commodities. At LHR, should an airline have not used their allotted slot for 80% of the time the slot will be forfeited. The estimated value of a slot is anywhere between gpb10 million and gbp20 million each. British Airways, to protect one of their slots not being utilized for a regular flight to Kashtent, uses the slot for a "ghost" flight operated by a daily Airbus A320 to Cardiff and does not carry any passengers. Although the cost of the flight is gbp2,500 plus crew salaries, handling charges, taxes and maintenance, it is considered to be cost effective.than losing the slot. Lat Charter, a Baltic company, has aquired a mix of aircraft from Air Canada for lease placement with thiid parties. (2) Airbis B320-200's placed with Israir of Tel Aviv and (2) Boeing B767-300ER which will be operated on behalf of Virgin Nigeria later this year. Those of you who have travelled to LHR are no doubt aware of the model Concorde situated outside the tunnel entrance to the terminals. This model has now been removed, as the aircraft it depicts has ceased flying, and moved to Brooklands Museum at Weybridge, Surrey. Emirates Airline has now purchased the site, and is expected to fill it with a model of the Airbus A380 in their colours. |
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Terry's Travel Tips
Jack Morath at LHR sends this -
Great rates for accommodation in the U.K. can be found at Travel Lodge, depending on location and day, rates range from gbp26.00 or gbp26 or gbp46 per night per room. Check the web site at www.travelodge.co.uk for details. Welcome to winter by the seaside...where else but at The Sebel Manly Beach! Experience this wonderful location with this great travel industry special: $149.00 per Superior View Room per night $199.00 per Ocean View Studio per night Valid until 31st August 2007 Email for reservations: Terrific position on the shores of Manly Beach. Enjoy contemporary-styled guest rooms and suites, plus 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Relax in our beachfront restaurant and bar overlooking beautiful Manly Beach. The hotel is surrounded by shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars. Retreat to our refurbished rooms, offering LCD TV's, lounge area, in-room movies, in room safe, working desk with broadband Internet connections and a furnished balcony or enjoy our recreation facilities which include a heated swimming pool, spa and sauna. Nearby attractions include whale watching tours, Manly Ocean World, kayaking, roller blading, biking, wonderful winter walks along the esplanade and fantastic dining options. The Sebel Manly Beach 8-13 South Steyne Manly NSW 2095 Australia Phone: +61 2 9977 8866 Fax: +61 2 9977 8209 Send Email: View Web Site: www.mirvachotels.com Rate is valid to 31st August 2007, is per room per night and includes GST. Rate is strictly subject to availability, is exclusive to Travel Industry personnel only and conditions may apply. The Sebel Manly Beach reserves the right to request proof of identity on check in. |
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Smilies
 Our Pionair organization -Contrary to rumours, the aircraft pictured below has NOT been purchased for use by our Pionairs executive.
Pionairs Executive Aircraft (not)
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Vesta's Corner
As many of you know, I collect postcards received from our readers sent during their travels.
Here is one -
 Here's what was is written on the back of a card from one of our traveling NetLetter readers;May 6,2007 - Hi Vesta, This is such a lovely country, especially in the north province of Friesland. Also went to visit Delft, very quaint town.
Regards, Sheila (Muscoe) (click on card for larger image)
 Jannet Tricarico, a NetLetter reader, AC retiree and the District Director for Pionairs in Vancouver had her travel article published in the July issue of Horizons. Her trip was in January and you can read all about it Online by visiting the Aeronet at: https://acaeronet.aircanada.ca logging in, and selecting "My News/Horizons/Issue 972 July" Her article is on page 11. |
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Air Canada News
ACE Aviation Holdings, parent of Air Canada, agreed to sell a 70% interest in its wholly owned maintenance, repair and overhaul subsidiary ACTS to an investment consortium that includes Sageview Capital and KKR Private Equity Investors in a transaction valuing ACTS at approximately C$975 million ($912.2 million). The departure of Air Canada flight AC8404 on June 15th., 2007 marks the launch of the only daily, non-stop service between Vancouver and Sacramento. Air Canada Jazz now operates double daily flights to California's capital city with 50-seat, made-in-Canada Bombardier aircraft. Air Canada's newest transborder flights depart Vancouver at 13:55 and 19:50, arriving in Sacramento at 15:52 and 21:47. Flights from Sacramento depart at 07:40 and 16:30, arriving in Vancouver at 09:40 and 18:30. Flights have been timed for convenient connections to and from Air Canada's extensive network of domestic and trans-Pacific Asia flights at Vancouver.  Boeing's first 787 hasn't had a formal rollout yet, but an aviation enthusiast acting on a tip from a blogger caught sight of the airplane as it was moved to a paint hangar just after midnight on Tuesday morning June 26th., 2007 |
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Star Alliance
 LUFTHANSA successfully integrated SWISS into its network, and says synergies from merger totaled 200m pounds in 2006. It plans to acquire remaining shares in SWISS on July 1 and will then own 100% of equity through AIRTRUST. |
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Our 70 Years
From "Between Ourselves" February 1947 -
 A trans-Atlantic radio-teletype circuit between Moncton and Prestwick, in Scotland, is being installed for the communication use of all international airlines that may require it. Operation of the Canadian terminal will be in the hands of T.C.A.1949 - Oct 1st., headquarters relocated from Winnipeg to Montreal.
Dec 2nd - Barbados added to the network. 1950 - Avro C102 JetLiner. President Gordon McGregor was on a flight from Malton to Idlewild(JFK) on the 18th., April. Flight took 59 minutes, greatly impressing the U.S.authorities. The JetLiner was developed with T.C.A. Engineering Planning for R.R. AJ65 engines for civil use. T.C.A. decided the aircraft would not be economical for their use. (source CAHS Journal Summer 2007)
1951 - Apr 1st - Paris France added to the network via LHR. |
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Readers Feedback
Jim Griffiths sends us this response -  Re: NetLetter # 975 and the introduction of Lockheed L 14 H a/c. I came across these photos in my father's photo collection of L14-H2, CF-TCK in an unflattering repose at Kenora Ontario in the summer of 1942. The notes say," the a/c crashed after suffering an engine failure and overran the runway". I don't know if the a/c was enroute when it lost the engine or whether it had landed in Kenora for fuel and overran the landing or a subsequent take off. I don't think Kenora was a scheduled stop but perhaps one of our readers might remember the incident and enlighten us.  The notes go on to say that TCK was a Lockheed L14H-2 with P&W Hornet R-1630-SIE2-G engines. It was re-engined with more powerful engines in November of 1942 to modify it to a L14-08 model and re-registered as CF-TCD. In December of 1946 it went to Photographic Survey Ltd. Toronto, then in August of 1949 to Kenting Aviation Toronto and finally in March of 1950 it swung on take off at Palisades Airport in Jamaica ! and presumably into oblivion. There seems to be a discrepancy in the dates of the last two entries.Our co-pilot replied with this -
Hello Jim, Regarding the CF-TCK fin 33 c/n 14125 , I have a record of it being delivered Sept 2/38 modified to L14-08 on Nov 12/42 and sold to Photographic Survey on Nov 26/46. I have no record of it being re-registered as CF-TCD. BUT I do have a record of CF-TCD model L14H2 fin 26 c/n 14010 manufactured May 10/38 modified Oct 29/42 to L14-08 sold to Montreal Air Services May 31/47 The final movements are interesting, but which aircraft I wonder? regards Terry and Jim sent his version -
Yes I guess I was up too early Here is what I have: 7/9/38 delivered to TCA
11/42 re-engined as CF-TCD 16/12/46 Photographic Survey Ltd. Toronto 25/8/49 Kenting Aviation Toronto This is where I'm confused 22/3/49 Swung on Take off at Palisades Jamaica. So I don't know if it was written off or not. Anyway that is where my trail ends. Incidentally the photos were taken by C. Hollingsworth who was a pilot for Western Canadian Airlines I believe and was the brother of a TCA pilot and he might be an old pilot who I had the pleasure of sharing the odd beer with at the Norman Hotel in Keewatin Ontario in the summers of 1977-85. He certainly had some very interesting bush pilot stories to tell and unfortunately I didn't think to make notes or tape recordings.
Jim G. Re: NetLetter # 978 and YAW. I flew into YAW as an F/O on North Stars and worked at Kelly Lake in 1961 for a while as an assistant flight dispatcher during the pilot layoff. I recall one night the DOT weather observer asked me to go down to weather office which was just down the hall from DX, every hour, on the hour to transmit the hourly weather observation for CYHZ. As a former teletype specialist Vesta, you'll enjoy this. The weather, that warm summer evening was perfect with virtually no ongoing changes. The weather observer, who shall remain nameless to protect the innocent, had prepared the teletype slip with it's brail like dots, for me to insert into the machine at the assigned time for the transmission of the report. For three hours that evening I sent out the same unchanged hourly report over and over; no one was ever the wiser while the weather observer was keeping an important appointment with the nearby airport boot legger. Jim Griffith Our chief pilot - Vesta - replied -
Hi Jim; thanks for your dispatch, how well I remember those tape loops that we used to set up for testing. One of the last ones I did was to test transmissions from ground to aircraft in flight. Do you remember the pictures that were exchanged between relay centres using teletype tape, we used to preserve them from year to year. I think they were designed by operators on the DEW line. That was before computers and digital cameras. |
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Found on the Internet
Canada's Porter Airlines, whose launch from Toronto City Centre Airport last October caused some consternation at Air Canada Jazz, this week won official clearance from the US Dept. of Transportation to expand its regional service south of the border Flights to and from Milan's Linate Airport were suspended for three hours on Sunday June 17th while staff and volunteers tried to capture hares and rabbits, which have been overrunning the runways. If Boeing has been rocked by this week's stack of new plane deals announced by rival Airbus, it certainly isn't showing it. Airbus unveiled deals involving over 700 planes including more than 300 firm orders, edging ahead of the US company which entered this week's Paris air show well ahead. |
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For our ex CPAirer's
John Waddington sends these pictures -
It was taken after their CP Air course graduation. Not sure about the others but Doug Moore is still a pilot for Air Canada and close to retirement, he is the one that emailed me the photo. |
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AC People Gallery
 Remember who?Here is another photo of staff in Calgary 1954 supplied by Pat McGillan |
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Where are they now!
 - A319-112 fin 288 c/n 1630 returned to lessor and now with Mexicana Mar 14/07- A319-112 fin 290 c/n 1673 returned to lessor and now with Mexicana Mar 22/07 - A320-211 fin 227 c/n 0333 returned to Latcharter now with Israir YL-LCA Jan 17/07 - A320-211 fin 233 c/n 0384 returned to Latcharter now with Israir YL-LCB Jan 10/07 - A320-211 fin 234 c/n 0426 returned to Greenwich Kahala with Air Comet EC-KBM |
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Terry's Travel Tips
Airway Vacations announces
Hawaii 4 Night Getaway with Confirmed Air $435* Hawaii deals this summer have been hard to find until now!
Travel any day of the week from August 22 through September 19 and get a 4 night package with air to sunny and warm Honolulu for $435 per person from the SFO (add $40 from LAX) This deal is great for long weekends and includes Labor Day weekend! You get: Roundtrip confirmed air to HNL on United Airlines from SFO, depart any day between August 22 and Sept. 19, 2007, 4 nights accommodations in Waikiki, fresh flower lei greeting.
You must book by July 11. Longer vacations and additional upgrade options have also been discounted.
These deals move quickly CALL TODAY!
1 800 422 3727 From: "Lyla Mobberley" < Subject: RE: The NetLetter #978 Regarding the CHECKED BAGGAGE LOCK bought the new special marked locks about $13. each and the very first time I used them traveling into the States, they were cut off!
Lyla
Locate yourself in the heart of The Rocks, at the doorstep to Circular Quay, and Sydney's major business and shopping precincts and experience Sydney in the lap of luxury with 5 star services and all-suite comfort! From AUD$219 in a One Bedroom City View Suite per night
From AUD$229 in a One Bedroom City Deluxe Suite per night From AUD$329 in a One Bedroom Harbour View Suite per night Including 2 complimentary drinks in the Harrington Bar.
Valid for stays until 31 July 2007. 2 night minimum stay applies over Saturday night.
To book send an email directly to the hotel on:
All-suite accommodation with views over Sydney Harbour or the city skyline.
Recreation deck on level 24 features roman bath style heated pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium and spectacular views over Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. Located at the doorstep to Sydney Harbour only a short stroll from Circular Quay and public transport. Quay West Suites Sydney
98 Gloucester Street The Rocks, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia Phone: +61 2 9240 6000 Fax: +61 2 9240 6060 Send Email: View Web Site: www.mirvachotels.com Photos and information can also be viewed on the TIDD web site by clicking the following link:
Rates are valid for stays between 18 June - 31 July 2007, are per suite per night and include GST. Rates are strictly subject to availability and conditions may apply. Please note 2 night minimum stay applies over Saturday night. Rates are exclusive to Travel Industry personnel only. We reserve the right to request proof of identity on check in.
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