A high-profile CC-150 Polaris with quite the backstory now has a permanent home at the National Air Force Museum of Canada in Trenton. / NAFMC website photo
The National Air Force Museum of Canada (NAFMC) in Trenton has a high-profile new addition.
Earlier this week, the museum rolled out “a temporary runway” to welcome a CC-150 Polaris 15001 to its new, permanent home at RCAF Memorial Airpark.
“With a wingspan of nearly 44-metres, the aircraft is now the largest in the museum’s collection of 44 historic military aircraft,” said officials.
But that’s not all the aircraft is known for.
While its best known for its high-profile role transporting Canada’s prime ministers, governor generals and other dignitaries – and even members of the Royal Family – it’s also served as troop transport and been used in operations around the world before official retirement this year.
The Polaris was originally an addition to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in June 1993.
According to NAFMC, the aircraft, operated by 8 Wing/CFB Trenton’s 437 (T) Squadron, flew in support of United Nations, Red Cross and NATO missions around the globe, as well as contributed to Canadian operations in Afghanistan.
For the museum, which will now permanently house the Polaris, the addition is an exciting one.
“Polaris 15001 has a long service history, but what is most unique about the aircraft is its airframe,” explained curator Laura Imrie. “The aircraft underwent a number of modifications before entering service with the RCAF and while in service.
“It’s a great example of how aircraft can be modified to serve a variety of roles.”
Officials have noted that early upgrades to the aircraft included an eight-seat dining room, entertainment area, fold-out beds, and a shower. Meanwhile, in 2013, the aircraft changed with a distinctive white paint job, replacing the RCAF’s former military grey known for when the Polaris was more heavily tasked with troop transport.
Museum officials said they plan to spend the next little bit cataloguing and preparing the interior of the aircraft, and as of summer, the hope is to open the Polaris 15001 for interior tours on a rotating schedule as part of the popular “Flight Deck Friday” programming offered in July and August.
All aircraft tours resume in summer, but visitors can already get an outside look at the newest addition at the Airpark (weather permitting.)
“The arrival of Polaris 15001 marks an important milestone for the museum and for our mission to preserve and share Canada’s air force heritage,” added Kevin Windsor, NAFMC’s executive director. “Representing more than three decades of service, its unique history adds significant depth to our collection.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors to step inside and experience firsthand one of the most recognizable aircraft to have served with the RCAF.”
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
