SUPPORT OUR F-86 SABRE RESTORATION!
2024 will mark the centennial of the RCAF and the
50th anniversary of the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada.
To commemorate these momentous occasions, our restoration team is working to restore our Canadair F-86 Sabre Mk. 6.
This aircraft launched Canada into the jet age and in homage to the Sabres flown by the RCAF, it will be painted
with the livery of No. 441 Squadron once restoration is complete. The aircraft will be on display at the
Royal Aviation Museum beginning in July 2024 in line with the museum’s 50th anniversary.
WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT
Restoration and a new livery for the Sabre is estimated at $50,000.
Donate $50 and receive a custom ‘Sabre Squadron’ iron-on patch*.
Donate $150 and receive a behind-the-scenes tour of our restoration facility* where you’ll meet the volunteers and see the restoration progress being made, plus a custom ‘Sabre Squadron’ patch.
Donate $250 or more and receive an invite to the VIP unveiling event next July, plus one of our ‘Sabre Squadron’ patches.
PLUS, all donors will have their names listed on our website and be entered to win the chance to be the first to sit in the cockpit once the Sabre arrives at the museum.
*Patches and tours of our restoration facility will be available in early 2024.
Join the Sabre Squadron and help preserve this important piece of Canadian aviation history.
You will be redirected to Canada Helps, our secure donation site.
Watch the Sabre’s new livery be revealed as our fundraiser progresses!
ABOUT THE F-86 SABRE
Built under license from North American, the Canadair Mk. 6 was the only Sabre variant made entirely in Canada.
The Mk. 6 had a two-stage, Canadian-made Orenda 14 engine with a 7,275 lb thrust rating—nearly 40% more than the original GE engine—and its wing leading slats gave it superb combat manoeuvring. With this combination of engine and aerodynamics, the Mk. 6 was widely regarded as the best “dog-fighter” of its era.
Sabre aircraft were a mainstay of the RCAF and NATO forces during the early years of the Cold War. They were also flown by air forces around the world, and during the 50s and early 60s were considered the top fighter jets in the world.
In 1959, the Golden Hawks aerobatic team was formed to mark the 35th anniversary of the RCAF and the 50th anniversary of flight in Canada. The Golden Hawks used Sabres painted in an eye-catching gold and yellow colour scheme and put on an electrifying show for spectators.
This particular aircraft, #1815, was the last Sabre ever produced by Canadair.
VIEW OUR PROGRESS HERE
You will be redirected to Canada Helps, our secure donation site.
