Hangar Flight Museum Calgary
Explore Calgary's aviation legacy with iconic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Hangar Flight Museum Calgary
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Calgary's aviation legacy with iconic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences.
"An amazing experience if you are into any kind of military or aviation history!"
🎯 Go early to avoid crowds
Arrive right at opening on Saturdays for a less crowded experience. Weekdays are also good!
🛬 Climb aboard!
Many planes let you sit in the cockpit. Check for 'Open Aircraft Days' for more access!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Avro Lancaster Bomber
Main Hangar
A perfectly restored WWII icon. Step back in time and marvel at this legendary aircraft.
Cockpit Access
Various Aircraft
Climb aboard and imagine yourself as a pilot! Many aircraft offer open cockpit access.
Flight Simulators
Interactive Zone
Experience the thrill of flying! These simulators are a huge hit with kids and adults alike.
Canadian Aviation History
Exhibition Halls
Explore the rich history of flight in Western Canada, from military to civilian aviation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Interactive Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go early to avoid crowds
Arrive right at opening on Saturdays for a less crowded experience. Weekdays are also good!
🛬 Climb aboard!
Many planes let you sit in the cockpit. Check for 'Open Aircraft Days' for more access!
✈️ Kid-friendly fun
Flight simulators and interactive displays will keep the little ones entertained.
🎖️ Military history buffs
Discover Canada's military aviation past with impressive aircraft and exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go early to avoid crowds
Arrive right at opening on Saturdays for a less crowded experience. Weekdays are also good!
🛬 Climb aboard!
Many planes let you sit in the cockpit. Check for 'Open Aircraft Days' for more access!
✈️ Kid-friendly fun
Flight simulators and interactive displays will keep the little ones entertained.
🎖️ Military history buffs
Discover Canada's military aviation past with impressive aircraft and exhibits.
🛍️ Souvenir shopping
A small gift shop offers aviation-themed merchandise and toys.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Hangar Flight Museum for its impressive collection of well-restored Canadian aircraft, particularly the Avro Lancaster bomber. The interactive elements, like cockpit access and flight simulators, are a hit with families. While generally a positive experience, some note that it can get busy on weekend mornings.
"A nice collection of Canadian aviation history. The Lancaster is very impressive. A wonderful little gift shop when you first enter with an assortment of clothing and toys to commemorate your visit. I visited on Saturday morning and it was not busy but was getting busy when I left at lunchtime. Go when it first opens if you want to avoid crowds. Discount for veterans."
David Reeves
"This was a pleasant surprise. Lots of different planes, including access to look into the cockpit of most of them. Displays of different engines and other parts of old war planes on display. Small gift shop with merchandise and toys as well.
My son absolutely loved it, and I found it quite fascinating. They even included information on some pilots, including female pilots."
Melanie Ramundo
"We saw some fantastic planes, engines, and other memorabilia there. For my husband it was a step back a little in time to his RCAF days as well.
There were many old warplanes, including a Lancaster! I learned a lot reading the info boards dotted around."
Nuala Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hangar Flight Museum is located near Calgary International Airport. Driving is the most common way to get there, with ample parking available. Public transit options might involve multiple bus routes, so checking Calgary Transit schedules is recommended.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum. It's generally not an issue, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
While the museum is near the airport, it's a separate facility. You can watch planes take off and land from specific viewing areas near the airport, but the museum focuses on historical aircraft.
Public transport is available, but it may require transfers. It's best to check the Calgary Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to plan your journey.
For international visitors, renting a car or using ride-sharing services from the airport or your accommodation is often the most convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary for adults, seniors, and children. Discounts are often available for veterans. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events like 'Open Aircraft Days' or candlelight concerts, is recommended to secure your spot. 
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Always check the museum's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, discounts are typically offered for veterans. Check the museum's website or inquire at the ticket counter for any other available promotions or group rates.
Reciprocal membership benefits are not commonly advertised. It's best to confirm directly with The Hangar Flight Museum if they have any reciprocal agreements with other institutions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the perfectly restored Avro Lancaster bomber, a WWII icon. Many aircraft offer cockpit access, and the interactive displays on Canadian aviation history are fascinating.
Absolutely! Kids love the flight simulators, the opportunity to sit in cockpits, and the engaging exhibits that make learning about aviation fun.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or professional shoots. Some visitors have participated in photoshoots there.
While not always explicitly advertised, knowledgeable staff are often on hand to answer questions and share insights about the aircraft. Inquire at the front desk about any available informal tours or talks.
The museum features a diverse collection including military jets, vintage civilian planes, and iconic aircraft like the CF-101 Voodoo and the Avro Lancaster bomber.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a small gift shop that may offer some snacks or drinks, but it's not a full-service restaurant. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted for consumption in designated areas, but it's always best to confirm their specific policy upon arrival.
Since the museum is located near the Calgary International Airport, you'll find various dining options in the surrounding area, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
The gift shop usually stocks aviation-themed souvenirs and toys, and may have a limited selection of pre-packaged snacks and beverages.
The museum might offer event spaces for parties or gatherings. It's recommended to contact them directly to inquire about availability and packages.
📸 📸 Photography
The aircraft themselves, especially the Lancaster bomber, offer fantastic photo opportunities. The open cockpit access also provides unique angles.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods. It's advisable to check the museum's photography policy or ask staff upon arrival.
Yes, the museum has hosted photoshoots, including themed ones like pin-up photography. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements of such events.
The lighting can vary depending on the aircraft's location within the hangar. Natural light from windows and overhead hangar lights are the primary sources.
With open cockpit days and the spacious hangar, you can often get a variety of angles. Some aircraft are displayed in a way that allows for good side and front views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The interactive displays make learning about aviation engaging and fun, ensuring even the youngest visitors stay entertained. Arriving early on a Saturday or visiting on a weekday morning is recommended to avoid peak crowds and give children ample space to explore. Consider checking for 'Open Aircraft Days' for even more hands-on opportunities. The museum's layout is spacious, making it easy to navigate with strollers. While there isn't a full restaurant, bringing snacks is usually permitted, and there are gift shop items that can serve as fun souvenirs.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Take your time to read the information boards and appreciate the engineering and historical context of each exhibit. The knowledgeable staff are often happy to share their expertise, enriching your understanding. Consider attending special events like 'Open Aircraft Days' for an even deeper dive into the collection.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The open cockpit access allows for interesting perspectives. While personal photography is generally permitted, it's wise to check the museum's policy on tripods and professional shoots, as these may have restrictions. Keep an eye out for special events like themed photoshoots, which can offer even more creative opportunities. The hangar's lighting can be atmospheric, so experiment with different settings to capture the best shots of these magnificent machines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Canadian Aviation Heritage
Visitors can expect to see a diverse collection of aircraft, including iconic military planes like the CF-101 Voodoo and the legendary Avro Lancaster bomber. Beyond the large aircraft, the museum features detailed exhibits on engines, aviation technology, and the impact of aviation on Canadian society and its role in global events.
This focus on Canadian heritage makes The Hangar Flight Museum a unique destination. It's not just about the planes themselves, but the stories they tell about innovation, courage, and the nation's contribution to aviation. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, the exhibits offer an enriching and educational experience.
+1Interactive Experiences for All Ages
For those seeking a more dynamic thrill, the museum features flight simulators that provide a realistic flying experience. These simulators are particularly popular with children, turning a museum visit into an adventure.
These interactive features are crucial to the museum's appeal, transforming it from a passive viewing experience into an active exploration. They ensure that younger visitors remain engaged while adults can appreciate the technical aspects and historical context in a more dynamic way.
Special Events and Unique Experiences
+1These events provide a novel way to experience the museum, blending culture and history. They attract a different audience and offer a memorable evening out. The unique backdrop of historic aircraft adds a special ambiance to these gatherings, making them stand out from typical concert venues.
Additionally, the museum sometimes holds 'Open Aircraft Days', which significantly enhance the hands-on aspect of the visit. During these days, more aircraft might be accessible for closer inspection or even entry, providing an even more immersive experience for aviation enthusiasts.
Keeping an eye on the museum's schedule for these special events can lead to a truly unforgettable visit. 
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