The Lancaster returns to Goderich after 60 years 

02 May The Lancaster returns to Goderich after 60 years 

By Kathleen Smith

Sixty years ago, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) flew the retired Lancaster FM213 to Goderich on June 14, 1964. 

The local branch 109 of the Royal Canadian Legion displayed it as a war memorial for 13 years, until the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton acquired the plane in 1977.

On June 14, 2024 – 60 years to the date since its first arrival – the Lancaster will make a celebratory one-day return to visit the Goderich Regional Airport. 

“We are thrilled to welcome back the Lancaster to Goderich on this significant anniversary,” said Randy Carroll, Legion President.

While in Hamilton, the aircraft was painstakingly restored until its triumphant return to the air in 1988. Since then, the aircraft has continued to fly, and remains one of only two airworthy examples in the world. 

This aircraft holds a special place in the hearts of local aviation enthusiasts, and history buffs. 

The return of the Lancaster will be celebrated with a series of events and activities, providing a unique opportunity for residents, and visitors, to witness this legendary aircraft. 

Spectators are invited to witness this historic event and experience the thrill of seeing the Lancaster touch down on the runway.

Following the arrival, a series of activities and exhibits are available for those in attendance. 

On June 15, the Lancaster will once again bid farewell to Goderich. Spectators will be able to witness the aircraft’s majesty in flight.

“This iconic aircraft holds a special place in the hearts of our community, and we are honoured to have the opportunity to celebrate its history and pay tribute to the brave individuals who served during the Second World War,” added Carroll.

“We invite everyone to join us in this momentous occasion and experience the magic of the Lancaster firsthand.”

The aircraft will arrive on June 14 at approximately at 10 a.m. and depart on June 15 at approximately at 2 p.m. 

This historic event provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the aircraft’s remarkable engineering, its historical significance, and the heroic stories that surround it. 

Goderich Legion is seeking 50 volunteers for this historic event to assist with parking, traffic, and general assistance on site. 

Admission by donation.

On Friday, June 14 Lancaster arrival at approximately 10 a.m. followed by a BBQ hosted by COPA.

From 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. inside tours of the Lancaster will be available, admission by donation.

On Saturday, June 15 there will be a local flight of the Lancaster at approximately 11 a.m. followed by a BBQ lunch hosted by the Goderich Lions Club.

The Lancaster departs at 2 p.m. to head back to Hamilton. 

NOTE: Aircraft appearances are subject to change due to weather, serviceability, and operational commitments. 

For more information visit goderichlegion.ca or warplane.com or email info@goderichlegion.ca