Tractors and aircraft tugs, or mules, were vital equipment on airfields both today and in the past. Some aircraft, such as the Tiger Moth, can be easily moved by a few people, but larger aircraft, like the Harvard or twin engine planes such as the Crane or Anson, required a tractor or tug to move them around efficiently. Such machines were common on BCATP schools, farm and commercially available tractors were often used for this role. The museum has several of these types of vehicles, not only on display, but some are still fulfilling the role as aircraft tug today!
One of these tractors that the museum is very fortunate to have is one of the few special order tractors that the RCAF obtained specifically for the BCATP. This is our International Harvester I14 Industrial Tractor, which is one of only 300 built specifically for the BCATP. This tractor has an exceptionally quick top speed, which was designed to allow for quick transitions down runways to move aircraft that may have become disabled. Few of these tractors still exist, and we are fortunate to have one that functions and is on display. Our tractor served at #3 Bombing & Gunnery School at McDonald, Manitoba.
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial 