Just Listed: The flight stuff

For aviation fans, these Canadian destinations are perfect places to wing it. Canada has a long, rich history of flight, from the development of bush planes to the establishment of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, which helped train 130,000 airmen during the Second World War. Buckle up and put your seat in the upright position … it’s going to be an exciting flight.

1 Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Hamilton

This 40-year-old museum is packed with examples of aircraft — 36 military jets, prop planes and helicopters. Of special note is the Avro Lancaster, one of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world. Kids love this place because they can touch and sit in planes. Visit: warplane.com

2 Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Sault Ste. Marie

Located downtown, this roomy museum really tells the story about how important bushplanes are to Canada and the evolution of the craft. There’s a Children’s Flight Centre, which means you won’t have to yell “Don’t touch!� every two seconds. Visit: bushplane.com

3 Aero Space Museum of Calgary

Its collection is mighty, housed in a hangar built in 1941, part of the founding of the British Commonwealth Air Training Program in the city. The Douglas DC-3 still looks as if it’s ready for takeoff and jet fighters like the DH100 Vampire look as tough as ever. asmac.ab.ca

4 Canadian Aviation and Space Museum, Ottawa

This facility ranks among the world’s best with an extensive collection of more than 130 aircraft. Looking for somewhere to park the kids for the evening? The Night Flight package entertains children with a guided tour of the museum by flashlight, demos and workshops, before they bed down for a sleepover. aviation.technomuses.ca

5 Flight Adventures, Vancouver

If you’d rather fly a plane than look at one, here’s your chance. Using a simulator modelled after the Boeing 737 NG, you can virtually fly into any airport in the world. A professional pilot coaches you throughout to ensure a smooth flight. flightadventures.ca

6 Winnipeg Gliding Club

Take to the sky in a motorless plane and glide over the prairie landscape for just $99. You don’t need to take lessons or study anything. You’ll be with a qualified pilot who will do all the work. wgc.mb.ca

Open all references in tabs: [1 – 6]