The National Air Force Museum of Canada (NAFMC) has welcomed a new aircraft to the RCAF Memorial Airpark.
The CC-150 Polaris 15001, best known for its high-profile role transporting the Prime Minister, Governor General, members of the Royal Family, and other dignitaries arrived on Monday.
From June 1993 until its retirement in 2025, the aircraft, operated by 437 (T) Squadron at 8 Wing / CFB Trenton also flew in support of UN, Red Cross, and NATO missions worldwide, including contributing to Canadian Operations in Afghanistan.
With a wingspan of nearly 44-metres, the aircraft is now the largest in the Museum’s collection of 44 historic military aircraft.
Over its service life, the aircraft underwent numerous modifications to meet the needs of successive governments.
Early upgrades included an eight-seat dining room, entertainment area, fold-out beds, and a shower.
In 2013, the aircraft received the distinctive, white paint job we see today, which replaced the RCAF’s military grey that was used when the aircraft was more heavily tasked with troop transport.
For the Museum, this is an exciting new addition to their growing collection. “Polaris 15001 has a long service history, but what is most unique about the aircraft is its airframe,” explained Curator, Laura Imrie. “The aircraft underwent a number of modifications before entering service with the RCAF, and while in service. It’s a great example of how aircraft can be modified to serve a variety of roles.”
The CC-150 Polaris highlights the flexibility of the RCAF fleet. While 15001 served in a VIP role, other Polaris aircraft that joined the RCAF’s fleet carried out strategic airlift and air-to-air refueling, demonstrating how aircraft can be adapted and reconfigured to meet evolving operational requirements.
The Museum will spend time cataloguing and preparing the interior of the aircraft. Beginning in Summer 2026, the NAFMC hopes to open Polaris 15001 for interior tours on a rotating schedule as part of its popular “Flight Deck Friday” programming, offered every summer.
Kevin Windsor, Executive Director of the NAFMC, underscored the importance of the new acquisition: “The arrival of Polaris 15001 marks an important milestone for the Museum and for our mission to preserve and share Canada’s air force heritage. Representing more than three decades of service, its unique history adds significant depth to our collection. We look forward to welcoming visitors to step inside and experience firsthand one of the most
recognizable aircraft to have served with the RCAF.”
Visitors can already view the newest addition to the Airpark – weather permitting.
