In what can only be described as some of the best days of the summer, Hawk One was a featured attraction at the last AIRFEST that will be held at the City Centre Airport in the heart of Edmonton. Hawk One arrived from Cold Lake with Dan Dempsey at the controls just after noon on June 26^th. A large group of enthusiastic aviation fans were on hand to welcome the jet back to the Alberta Aviation Museum where it last appeared in 2009.

Media attention during Hawk One’s visit was extensive with the Edmonton Journal devoting three full pages to the visit in the days leading up to the event thanks to local writer Karl Wilberg (Click here to download). At least two local TV stations were also on hand to record the return of the Golden Hawk.

As reported in an earlier blog, the presentation by astronaut Chris Hadfield on Canada Day was very well attended with Edmonton Centre MP, the Honourable Laurie Hawn, and City Councillor Kim Krushell bringing greetings from the federal government and City of Edmonton respectively. Also on hand were the president of the Alberta Aviation Museum, Marvin Kowalchuk, executive director Tom Hinderks and president of the Edmonton Aviation Heritage Society, Professor Rod Macleod.

Following Chris’ flypast salute to the city and surrounding area, Dan flew a full aerobatic routine at the Edmonton Garrison (formerly CFB Namao) later that afternoon. Narrator Jeff Hill dedicated the show to the Garrison’s lost soldiers and returning veterans from Afghanistan. A reported 57,000 people had passed through the gates of the base by late afternoon. Local TV stations were on hand again the next day as the classic fighter made its final salute to the city as it departed for Calgary.

Dan Dempsey addressed a large goup of enthusiastic spectators upon arriving at the Alberta Aviation Museum. Photo by Jerry Vernon.

Dan Dempsey explains the Sabre cockpit to former Starfighter pilot Dan Graham. Photo by Denny May.

Chris poses with museum volunteer and author Denny May, son of one of Canada's great pioneers, Wop May. Photo by Dan Dempsey

Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail, national president of the Canadian Aviation Historical Society, took the opportunity to say hello to the Hawk One team while attending the CAHS annual convention in Edmonton.

Jeff, Danielle and Chris