History

Canada as a country is singularly indebted to aviation, which opened up our North and remains an essential lifeline to many areas of this vast dominion.

From the moment Canadian airmen first flew with the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service, the Royal Canadian Air Force has continuously evolved to meet current and future challenges, resulting in a rich heritage and history.

In the History Newsroom you will find accounts of historic events – and modern activities commemorating those events – that have contributed to our pride in our “light blue” heritage.

Read recently published articles about our history and heritage.

Historian Hugh Halliday has compiled an extensive list of more than 8,000 Canadian award recipients (available in language of origin only).

• First World War: Canadians in British Flying Services
• The Second World War: RCAF personnel
• Second World War: Canadians in Allied flying services
• Second World War: Foreign personnel in RCAF units overseas
• Second World War: Commonwealth personnel serving in Canada
• Post Second World War

If you have not been able to find the information you are looking for, please contact the Air Force Historian.