A retired Avro Lancaster bomber, a legendary aircraft from the Second World War, has embarked on a new chapter. The National Air Force Museum of Canada (NAFMC) recently transported the Lancaster KB 882 from Trenton, Ontario, to a temporary hangar at Base 31 in Picton, Ontario.
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Dennis Jarvis from Halifax, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This journey marks the beginning of a well-deserved restoration for KB 882. Following its service during WWII, the bomber transitioned to a unique role – aerial reconnaissance in the unforgiving Arctic. After decades of dedicated service, the aircraft was placed on display near the Quebec-New Brunswick border for public viewing. However, time and weather took their toll, necessitating its relocation back to Trenton in 2017.
Base 31 offers a fascinating new home for KB 882. This former Royal Canadian Air Force training base now boasts a vibrant artistic community with studios, galleries, and even a concert venue. However, its military roots are about to be rekindled with the establishment of a new museum dedicated to Canadian military artifacts. The Lancaster KB 882 will be a centerpiece of this museum, serving as a powerful symbol of Canada’s aviation history.
The restoration process is expected to continue until the Base 31 museum’s official opening in 2025. Aviation enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the rebirth of this iconic aircraft, a testament to Canada’s wartime and Cold War aviation history. The Lancaster KB 882’s new home at Base 31 promises to be a unique blend of artistic expression and historical commemoration. KB 882 eventually will be relocated back to the National Air Force Museum as a permanent exhibit once the renovation there is completed.
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