The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is a busy spot this afternoon as the 75th birthday celebrations are underway for the De Havilland Beaver.
Regarded as one of the country’s most iconic aircraft, the DHC-2 Beaver was first flown in 1947 and is famous for its short take off and landing capabilities.
To help celebrate the plane’s milestone, event organizers at the Bushplane have put together a Beaver Birthday Bash, inviting locals to enjoy live music, food, refreshments, and games.
Former Beaver pilots are providing visitors with their stories of flying the aircraft, and attendees can even try their hands at a DHC-2 Beaver simulator.
Rick Ross, a former Beaver pilot currently residing in Lindsay, Ontario, says today’s recognition of the aircraft’s huge milestone is incredibly nostalgic.
“It’s one of the best bush planes – far beyond dispute” he says. “There’s so much history behind it.”
Ross has logged hundreds of hours flying the DHC-2 Beaver, and he doesn’t see the historic aircraft slowing down anytime soon.
“It’ll go for a long time yet, they’re just that good,” he says. “It’s an iconic airplane. They’re like the Harley Davidson of motorcycles.”
The birthday bash will continue at the Bushplane until 7 p.m. this evening with admission being by donation.