The Home for the Heavies is an exciting hangar expansion project designed to propel the Bomber Command Museum of Canada into a new era of historical preservation and visitor experience. As an internationally recognized WWII memorial, the museum has earned acclaim for restoring historic aircraft to runnable and taxiable status. Among its treasures is one of only four operational Lancaster bombers in the world, with all four engines fully runnable. These rare and thrilling experiences draw visitors from around the globe but are currently limited by a constrained taxiway and viewing areas.
To address these limitations and honor the legacy of those who served, the museum is preparing to construct a 25,000-square-foot hangar immediately west of the existing facility. This expansion will feature access to green space, allowing aircraft to be taxied and displayed year-round. The state-of-the-art facility will include a kitchen, additional restrooms, a workshop, and storage areas. A mezzanine, accessible by elevators and stairs, will offer elevated viewing platforms, enhancing the visitor experience.
The expansion is not just about infrastructure; it’s about preserving and growing a living memorial. The museum is actively acquiring and restoring additional aircraft, including the final stages of assembling a running RAF Halifax bomber. This monumental restoration is led by the Halifax 57 Rescue organization, which has already achieved incredible feats, such as recovering Halifax NA337 from underwater in Norway and an RCAF Halifax from a swamp in Belgium. The resurrection of the Halifax bomber will honor the 10,659 RCAF airmen killed in action during combat missions.
These planes are more than machines; they are living memorials to the volunteers who bravely served and the thousands who made the ultimate sacrifice. Sir Arthur Harris, Marshal of the Royal Air Force and commander of Bomber Command, wrote a tribute recognizing their extraordinary courage. The museum expansion will bring that tribute to life, offering a place of reflection and respect for the 55,000 men—10,600 of them Canadians—who were killed during Bomber Command’s nearly 2,000 days of operations and 400,000 missions.
EXPANSION
Expansion is based on 3 priorities.
History in Motion
We believe the unique opportunity to experience WWII planes ‘in motion’ deepens our collective respect for freedom and those who protected it with their lives. Bomber planes were the tools of those heroes. To experience the planes is to understand the resolve of the people behind the planes.
Sharing the Stories of People & Planes
Connecting with history ignites learning, creativity and insight for a better future. We will continue to inspire every visitor through thoughtful expressions of those who served for our freedom.
Building Community
Building community is at the heart of everything we do! From ensuring that every visitor around the world can visit the museum by way of a donation that meets their ability. We will celebrate everyone who served in Bomber Command including women, indigenous Canadians and share their stories with respect and dignity.
PHASE
01
Project Planning & Consultation
(2017-2023)
The concept and construction planning has been completed and consultation with local government and community was secured years ago. A world pandemic and construction cost inflation have been barriers for success. In 2023, a new campaign committee was developed and they have been working to create new timelines, budgets and strategies to see the ‘Home for the Heavies’ come to life.
TIMELINE
PHASE
02
Fund Development & Community Engagement
(2024-2026)
Conversations and presentations with all levels of government, tourism partners, foundations, funding partners, construction partners and supporters who want to see the new hangar and taxi-way come to life. There is an urgency to open before the Halifax bomber arrives to it’s new home for final construction. Our goal is to attain enough financial support to complete fundraising in 12-18 months.
PHASE
03
Construction & Opening
(2026-2027)
The construction phase is an estimated 9-12 months, depending on seasonal construction challenges. While a volunteer construction committee and the project manager focus on the new construction, a priority will also be placed on the design of new museum displays, furnishings and equipment as well as the planning for a public opening with dignitaries and visitors from around the World. Sharing this special moment with our project partners will be a dream come true!
