By Eric Dumigan | August 8, 2017 Estimated reading time 2 minutes, 57 seconds.
Billed as the largest classic wings and wheels event in Canada, Edenvale Aerodrome, near Wasaga Beach, Ont., is set to hold its annual gathering of aircraft, cars and motorcycles on Aug. 12.
For 11 years the Edenvale Classic Aircraft Foundation and Edenvale Aerodrome have held their annual Gathering of the Classics. It is the largest fly-in event in Canada and attracts hundreds of aircraft owners every summer.
The aircraft range from ultra lights, vintage, warbirds, modern aircraft and even ex-military jet trainers. Over 300 classic cars and motorcycles attend, so there is lots to see for any type of motor head. Food vendors and a beer tent will also be open for the day. Expected attendance is set at 4,000 to 5,000 visitors, based on previous years.
Flights in aircraft are very popular at the event and the Edenvale Classic Aircraft Foundation will have several historic aircraft available for flight experiences. Helicopters and other modern aircraft will also be giving rides on a first come, first served basis. With Blue Mountain in the distance, Wasaga Beach and the blue waters of Georgian Bay, the scenic flights are breathtaking.
Edenvale Aerodrome was created for the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan as No.1 Relief Field for Camp Borden during the Second World War, and the first recorded landing was on Aug. 8 1941.
After the war the field was used as a car racetrack. From 1962 to 1994 the Canadian Armed Forces used Edenvale as a remote radio communications station for Base Borden. In 2003, the airfield, was purchased by Milan Kroupa Sr. and has since been turned into one of Ontario’s finest small airports.
The Edenvale Classic Aircraft Foundation operates several historic aircraft that include a de Havilland DH-82A Tiger Moth complete with a tailskid, a Second World War Cornell trainer and a two-seat Piel Diamant. Also located on the field is the Acer Cold War Museum, which offers rides in its bright red Aero L-29 military jet trainer.
Visit classicaircraft.ca for more information. Pilots flying to the Gathering of the Classics should read the arrival procedures here.
