George’s aviation journey began in Wisconsin, continued with rebuilding his Aeronca Bluebird, and led to creating CTQ2, a 2,600-foot grass strip in Stanstead, QC. Now 85, he still hosts annual fly-ins, celebrates cross-border aviation friendships, and pursues new ideas like Project CANUSA and an innovative eVTOL design.
Community, COPA eNews, Travel & Lifestyle
86-year-old floatplane, last of its kind known to still be flying, takes to the skies in Vanderhoof, B.C.
An airplane with origins in the days when bush pilots transported people, cargo and even horses across northern Canada is taking flight once again in central B.C. A 1938 Bellanca Aircruiser, made from various materials including wood and fabric, is spending the summer in Vanderhoof, B.C., about 100 kilometres west of Prince George. On loan from the Erickson Aircraft Collection in Oregon, it’s being piloted by Glenn Pearce, a retired Air Canada pilot with over 55 years of experience.
Aviation insurance rates have possibly hit their lowest point — but change is in the air. COPA member and ACIP broker Caleb Winterburn had the opportunity to be interviewed about this trend for Insurance Business Canada Magazine. As someone who lives and breathes aviation insurance, Caleb believes it’s never been more important stay informed on shifting trends in aviation insurance.
Tony Swain, a long-time COPA member, past Director for the BC and Yukon region, and frequent contributor to ‘COPA Flight’ passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 90. COPA celebrates Tony’s legacy as one of community, cooperation, and kindness. He leaves behind hundreds of friends, colleagues, and fellow aviators whose lives he touched through his example of service and his unwavering enthusiasm for life.