By Mike Davenport, EAA 89102, Langley, British Columbia
VOL-UN-TEER — one who freely gives their time and efforts to a task without expectation of compensation.
Saturday, September 17, saw a large group of volunteer aviation enthusiasts show up at the Canadian Museum of Flight in Langley, British Columbia.
Led by ultimate volunteer, former Young Eagle, and now airline pilot David McIntosh, the group undertook a massive cleanup of displays both inside and outside. Located on the south side of the airport just off 216th Street, the museum occupies a hangar full of aircraft and artifacts in addition to a yard with aircraft ranging from a single-seat 18-hp Quickie to a supersonic CF-104 jet.
While Mondays are the normal volunteer workday, many who would want to help are unable during the week due to work or school pressures, but they could be available on a Saturday. David has taken the lead on this and is planning to hold an all-day work party on the third Saturday of each month followed by a pizza dinner and movie night.
In a museum of this size, there is always work that needs to be done. Bare aluminum aircraft such as the T-33, CF-100, and others need constant care due to weathering. Paint needs to be touched up or redone due to UV fading, and aircraft that must be left outside tend to grow moss due to our mild but wet climate.
Other chores planned for this day are the washing of the Harvard and an engine run just to keep things lubricated. Longer-term plans for the Harvard include a propeller overhaul and a paint job, both expensive projects for another day that require some fundraising.
Other aircraft need annuals and maintenance to continue as part of the CMF’s flying display. Included in this lot are the 1937 Cabin Waco AQC-6, a 1941 Fleet 16B Finch, Fleet Canuck, the rare 1930 Waco INF, and the SE5a and Sopwith Pup replicas.
Four new pilots were introduced. All are commercial pilots with extensive tailwheel time, a must for flying the museum aircraft.
Do check out their website at www.canadianflight.org.