November 23, 2023
We’ve just launched a fundraising campaign for the restoration of our Canadair F-86 Sabre fighter jet. We’re on our way to our goal of $50,000 and want YOU to be a part of this historic aircraft’s transformation!
Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada and the 100th anniversary of the RCAF. To commemorate these milestones, our fully restored Sabre Mk. 6 will be unveiled at an anniversary celebration in July of 2024.
About the Sabre
When Canada joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949, it agreed to provide a European air contingent. The best aircraft then was the North American Sabre, the F-86. Rather than buying Sabres from the Americans, Canada obtained a license to have them produced by Canadair in Montreal. This aircraft launched Canada into the jet age.
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.
Built under license from North American, the Canadair Mk. 6 was the only Sabre variant made entirely in Canada. Our aircraft, #1815, was the last one ever produced.
Be part of the Sabre’s transformation!
Though Sabre #1815 never flew for the RCAF, in homage to all those that did, it will be painted with the livery of No. 441 Squadron once restoration is complete. All this work is estimated to cost $50,000.
Help us preserve this important piece of Canadian aviation history—donate and become part of the Sabre Squadron.
All donors will have their names listed on our website and one lucky donor will be the first to sit in the Sabre’s cockpit once it arrives at the museum next summer.
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.
Track our progress here and stay tuned for details on our 50th anniversary celebration next summer.
Join the Squad—donate today!
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