Celebrating Aviation, Protecting Our Future
Sustainability at the KF Centre for Excellence
At the KF Centre for Excellence, aviation connects us to the world — but it also challenges us to think about how we care for the planet we share. From preserving rare aircraft to inspiring the next generation, we believe that sustainability is not a trend, but a responsibility. Our commitment to sustainability is woven into the way we operate, the experiences we offer, and the partnerships we build. We’re proud to play a role in shaping a future where aviation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
How We Lead by Example
A Living Legacy of Aviation
Preserving historic aircraft isn’t just about showcasing the past – it’s about sustainability, too. By restoring and maintaining these planes, we extend their life, honour the craftsmanship that built them, and ensure future generations can learn from aviation’s legacy without the need for new resources.
Energy-Smart Spaces
Our award-winning building is more than an architectural landmark – it’s designed with efficiency at its core featuring LED lighting, climate control systems that balance energy use with the preservation needs of rare aircraft. Many of our exhibits and building are also motion-activated, turning on only when visitors enter a space – a smart approach that conserves energy while still delivering a dynamic, hands-on aviation experience.
Protecting Biodiversity
We believe that innovation in aviation must go hand in hand with respect for the land. The KF Centre for Excellence property is maintained with care for the local Okanagan environment. We actively avoid the introduction of invasive species and integrate native plants into our landscaping to support pollinators, birds, and the region’s natural ecosystem.
Education for a Greener Future
The next generation of aviators, engineers and innovators will inherit both the skies, and the environment challenges we face. That’s why sustainability is built into our education programs, from school tours and summer camps to hands-on workshops and speaker events. Students and visitors are introduced not only to the history of flight but also to conversations around green aviation technologies and responsible travel practices.
Our Achievements So Far
Biosphere Certified
We are proud to be recognized as Biosphere Certified. This global program, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, validates our commitment to responsible tourism and continuous improvement.
In October 2025, we will serve as the official host venue for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Sustainability Summit, brining together leaders in tourism, business, and aviation to share best practices for a greener future.
Regional Leadership in Sustainability
Award-Winning, Sustainable Design
The KF Centre for Excellence building has been celebrated with multiple awards, including recognition from the Wood Design & Building Awards and the Thompson Okanagan Commercial Building Awards. With mass timber construction, energy-efficient lighting, and innovative structural design, the Centre stands as both as architectural landmark and a model for environmentally conscious development – thanks to the partnerships with world-class firms like StructureCraft, Sawchuk, Meiklejohn Architects, and local contractors.
The KF Centre for Excellence is directly connected to the community – we’re located on the bus route and accessible by the Okanagan Rail Trail, making it easy for visitors to arrive by public transit, bike or foot. For events, we partner with local suppliers and vendors, and collaborate with partners to provide shuttle services, reducing our carbon footprint while strengthening our regional economy.
Supporting Local & Reducing Emissions
Engaging Visitors in Sustainability
Interactive signage across the Centre connects visitors to our sustainability initiatives and opening the conversation to the future of sustainable aviation, making environmental responsibility apart of their journey.
Join Us on the Journey
Every visit to the KF Centre for Excellence is part of something bigger: celebrating aviation, honouring history, and shaping a more sustainable future for our community and the world.
Together, we can discover the wonder of aviation while protecting our planet for generations to come.
