FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, April 1, 2022

ABBOTSFORD, BC – A piece of Canadian aviation history is getting set to return to the skies! In partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Abbotsford International Airshow Society is excited to announce that the CF-101 Voodoo aircraft that currently sits at the entrance to the Abbotsford Airport will be restored to flying condition. The project is part of a national program to restore several retired aircraft in preparation for the RCAF’s 100th anniversary in 2024, but the Airshow hopes to have the Voodoo ready in time to fly at this year’s Airshow.

Cascade Aerospace, an RCAF maintenance and repair provider located in Abbotsford, has been tasked with bringing the Voodoo back to life. Stu McIntosh, Vice President of Programs at Cascade, suggests the entire project should be completed in just over 3 months with final testing and safety checks to be scheduled just prior to the 2022 Airshow. 

“The project presents unique challenges for us since we work predominantly with larger transport aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules,” says McIntosh. “We are also going to have to custom-fabricate a number of components as there is no active supply chain for the Voodoo anymore. But we have the full support of the RCAF and are confident in our people to get the job done in time.”

Jim Reith, Airshow President and former CF-101 pilot himself indicated that the aircraft needs a lot of work. “There are significant repairs required to the horizontal stabilizers and the entire electrical and hydraulic systems need to be replaced. It’s a big undertaking but I can’t wait to see it fly and I know our spectators will feel the same way. None of this would be possible without the support of the RCAF.” 

The Cold War era fighter-interceptor served in the RCAF between 1961 and 1987 and was a frequent performer at the Abbotsford Airshow. Following the Voodoo’s retirement from service, tail number 101035 was transferred to the Airshow Society in 1992. The aircraft was removed from its pedestal by crane on Wednesday and transported to the Cascade Aerospace facility to begin its restoration.

The Abbotsford International Airshow’s 60th Anniversary event is scheduled to take place August 5th to 7th, while April Fool’s Day is scheduled for today.