The Patrician, September & October 2023

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Spooky Tales of Canadian Aviation H

alloween is a spook-tacular time of year where we can all indulge in the macabre and horrific in fun ways, but it's not something you would normally associate with aviation. However, look a bit deeper and you'll find an intriguing connection between Halloween and Canadian aviation! In this article, we will delve into the spooky and fascinating history of how these seemingly unrelated topics intersect.

THE GHOSTLY AVIATORS OF WORLD WAR II:

During World War II, a group of Canadian aviators became known as the "Ghost Squadron." These aviators were part of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and were known for their fearless night bombing missions over enemy territory. The term "Ghost Squadron" came from the dark, eerie skies they navigated while delivering payloads of destruction. On Halloween night in 1944, the Ghost Squadron executed a daring bombing run that would go down in history. Their bravery and the spookiness of their mission make for an intriguing connection between Halloween and Canadian aviation.

HAUNTED HANGARS

Many airports and aviation facilities in

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Canada have stories of hauntings and ghostly encounters. One such place is the abandoned airfield at the former RCAF Station Foymount in Ontario. During World War II, this airfield was a hub of activity, and it is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who served there. Ghostly apparitions, eerie noises, and unexplained occurrences have been reported by visitors and paranormal enthusiasts. These stories turn these hangars into spooky landmarks tied to Canadian aviation history.

THE MYSTERY OF FLIGHT 21

Canadian aviation history is marked by several mysterious and unexplained incidents. One such incident is the case of Flight 21. On Halloween night in 1953, Trans-Canada Air Lines Flight 21 crashed near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, killing all 11 people on board. The cause of the

VFC | Aviation Excellence Since 1946


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