It all started with stories told at family gatherings, about airplanes and Canada's golden age of aviation. Little did Trevor McTavish realize that for two decades his grandparents were front and centre in shaping the development of aviation in Alberta and even more importantly how Albertans accepted and used the airplane.



At the centre of these stories was Franz McTavish who, 75 years ago, escaped virtual slavery on the farm and replaced it with the freedom of flight. Despite years of financial hardship and fierce competition, Franz would see that his customers were offered the best in service and aircraft. It was a policy that would ultimately lead to the company's end. Yet, for 20 years, it was Chinook Flying Service Ltd. that shaped how Albertans would use general aviation; as pleasure craft or as tools in business.



Come inside and discover how this one seemingly simple flying company pioneered the many applications that general aviation aircraft are still being used for today.