More than 600 guests gathered in Ottawa on September 17 for Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame’s 2026 Induction Ceremony—an evening that brought the country’s aviation past, present and future together under one roof.
An Evening of National Recognition
The ceremony was held at the Porter Airlines Maintenance Facility. Porter Airlines served as sponsor and host, while respected Canadian journalist Peter Mansbridge guided the evening as Master of Ceremonies.
For more than 50 years, the Hall has honoured the people and organizations whose leadership, innovation and dedication have shaped aviation and aerospace in Canada. The 2026 class reflects that mission through achievements in aviation medicine, airline leadership, heritage preservation and public engagement.
The 2026 Inductees
Robert Banks, CMR RMC 1974
Robert Banks was honoured for pioneering contributions to human-factors research in aviation. Over decades of work, he advanced flight-surgeon training and the study of physiological stress in flight, helping deepen the aviation community’s understanding of how the human body performs in demanding airborne environments. His induction is also a point of pride for the military-college community.
Donald J. Carty
Donald J. Carty was recognized for transformative leadership and vision in the airline industry. He guided major carriers through periods of change, promoted open-skies policies between Canada and the United States, and helped strengthen cross-border cooperation in aviation.
Ken Molson
Ken Molson was celebrated for his foundational role in preserving Canada’s aviation heritage as the first curator of the National Aviation Museum. He established restoration and archival standards that became models of excellence, helped build one of the world’s leading aviation collections, and produced research that continues to inform the understanding of Canadian aviation history.
Michael Potter, CMR RMC 1966
Michael Potter was acknowledged for his passion and dedication in showcasing aviation excellence. He founded the Vintage Wings of Canada Foundation, created VinTech Aero Inc. to restore and repair historic warbird aircraft, and opened opportunities for Canadians to connect directly with the aircraft and stories of the country’s aviation past. His induction holds particular significance for fellow military-college alumni.
A Familiar Voice Guides the Celebration
Peter Mansbridge brought nearly five decades of broadcasting experience to his role as Master of Ceremonies. Best known for his years as CBC News Chief Correspondent and anchor of The National, he provided a fitting voice for an evening devoted to Canadian achievement, history and service.
Honouring Excellence Across Canadian Aviation
The Hall also presented the Belt of Orion Award for Excellence to the Air Transport Association of Canada, recognizing its enduring role as a national voice for commercial aviation. The Canadian Space Agency’s Artemis II Team received Canada’s Aviation Distinction Award, with Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen RMC 1999 in attendance.
For one memorable evening, history filled the hangar and the future stood beside it. The 2026 ceremony not only celebrated four remarkable careers, but also reminded guests that Canada’s aviation and aerospace story continues to be written by those who preserve its legacy, advance its science and inspire the next generation.
A copy of Robert Bank’s Speech can be found here.
