Last week, the KF Centre for Excellence welcomed aviation historians, researchers, authors, pilots, engineers, restorers, and enthusiasts from across Canada and around the world for the 2026 Canadian Aviation Historical Society (CAHS) National Convention and Aviation Cultures Mk. VIII Conference.
Held June 17–20, the four day event became a gathering place for those passionate about preserving, sharing, and exploring aviation history. Attendees travelled from coast to coast across Canada, as well as from the United States and Australia, to participate in a diverse program of presentations, panel discussions, networking opportunities, tours, and special events.
The conference featured more than a dozen sessions examining topics ranging from early aviation pioneers and military aviation history to museum interpretation, airline culture, aircraft restoration, and the evolving ways aviation stories are shared with future generations. The partnership with Aviation Cultures brought an international perspective to the program, encouraging thoughtful discussion about the cultural significance of aviation around the world.
A highlight of the week was the public engine run of the Centre’s de Havilland Mosquito. Visitors and conference attendees gathered to experience the distinctive sound of the aircraft’s twin Merlin engines coming to life, creating a memorable moment that connected guests directly to aviation history.
Conference participants also enjoyed guided tours of the KF Centre’s aircraft collection and exhibits, as well as behind-the-scenes visits to KF Aerospace facilities at Kelowna International Airport. These experiences provided visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the Centre’s mission and the important work being done to preserve Canada’s aviation heritage.
The event concluded with a special screening of Odyssey ’86 – 90 Years of the DC-3, the KF Centre’s recently released documentary celebrating the 40th anniversary of the historic round-the-world flight of the Douglas DC-3 Spirit of Vancouver. The film highlights the remarkable journey undertaken in 1986 to promote Expo 86 and shares the story of how the aircraft eventually found its way back to Kelowna through the efforts of KF Aerospace founder Barry Lapointe.
Hosting national and international conferences such as CAHS and Aviation Cultures supports the KF Centre for Excellence’s commitment to aviation education, heritage preservation, and community engagement. By bringing together experts, researchers, and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds, these events help foster new connections and ensure important aviation stories continue to be shared and preserved.
The KF Centre extends its sincere thanks to the Canadian Aviation Historical Society, Aviation Cultures, conference organizers, presenters, volunteers, and attendees for making this year’s event such a success.
We were honoured to welcome the aviation community to Kelowna and look forward to hosting future gatherings that celebrate the people, stories, and innovations that continue to shape aviation.
Photo Credit: Jim Bell / Canadian Aviation Historical Society
