February 23, Canada's National Aviation Day

Since 2009, Canadians have celebrated the Canadian Centennial of Flight by designating February 23 as National Aviation Day.

National Aviation Day celebrates the successes of aviation pioneers and of the aviation industry in Canada by shining a spotlight on the first heavier-than-air, powered flight in Canada, which took place on Bras d'Or Lake near Baddeck, Nova Scotia, on 23 February 1909. The pilot, John A. Douglas McCurdy, a member of the Aerial Experiment Association, flew the Silver Dart for just under one kilometre over the frozen lake.

We encourage everyone to take a few moments on February 23 to reflect on Canada's aviation heritage!