Spotlight on the Vermilion River Flying Club
Featuring Alberta AAC Member: Vermilion Flying Club
Story Credit: Lorna Hamilton, The Vermilion Voice
On the evening of April 9, aviation enthusiasts gathered for an informative event hosted by the Vermilion River Flying Club. The featured speaker for the evening was Brian Andrus, Director of Operations for the Alberta Aviation and Aerospace Council, who shared his extensive experience in aviation and the Council’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Alberta’s aviation community.
Club President Jim Bristow opened the evening by welcoming attendees and introducing Andrus, thanking him for making the trip to Vermilion. Six aircraft and pilots from neighbouring clubs—Holden, Tofield, Flagstaff, Killam, and Lougheed—flew in to attend the event, adding to the sense of excitement and camaraderie.
The main focus of Andrus’ presentation was the Alberta Aviation Council—its history, current initiatives, and the benefits of membership. He explained that the Alberta AAC was formed in 1969 by seven aviation enthusiasts, including Spitfire pilot and McBain Camera founder Ross McBain.
“In 1992, the Council had government funding,” Andrus noted. “But then Premier Ralph Klein made cuts across the board, and one of the casualties was funding for the Alberta Aviation Council. At that time, we had an executive director.”
Today, the Council offers events focused on industry development and publishes an updated Air Facilities Map every six years. It provides scholarships to support students and air cadets pursuing aviation careers, and delivers educational and training programs, including a Grade 6 aviation curriculum developed in collaboration with Alberta Education.
The Alberta AAC also hosts human resource development sessions at its conferences, addressing the needs of a diverse workforce. It plays an active role in government relations, with three directors currently serving on the province’s Strategic Aviation Advisory Committee. In addition, the Council supports aviation heritage by donating funds to aviation museums across Alberta.
Andrus highlighted several benefits of AAC membership, including:
Reduced rates for conferences, workshops, and advertising opportunities
Access to a wide network within the aviation, aerospace, and airport sectors
Direct connections with NAV Canada, Transport Canada, the Government of Alberta’s Aerospace Sector Team, and national and international industry groups
Complimentary air facility maps and booklets
Discounted hotel rates through Sawridge Hotels, d3h.ca, and Choice Hotels