de Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth
A Legacy in Flight
First flown in the United Kingdom in 1931, the de Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth became one of the most successful primary flight trainers in aviation history. Powered by a de Havilland Gipsy III four-cylinder, air-cooled engine, it served with the Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force and many other military organizations worldwide.
To better withstand Canada’s climate, the Canadian-built DH.82C featured an enclosed cockpit and cabin heater, making it ideal for year-round flight training. Even today, approximately 300 Tiger Moths remain airworthy around the world, with about 40 still flying in Canada.
This Aircraft's Journey
The Tiger Moth on display has its own remarkable story. Restored by retired U.S. Navy test pilot Bob Laidlaw, a Canadian living in Nevada, the aircraft was donated to the Canadian Air and Space Museum in Downsview. Bob personally flew it across western Canada, stopping at former Tiger Moth training bases along the way.
After experiencing an engine problem in Brandon, Manitoba, the aircraft was transported by rail to Oshawa, where it was fitted with a replacement engine before completing its final flight to Downsview. Today, it continues to preserve the legacy of one of aviation’s most beloved training aircraft.
FAST FACTS
- Manufacturer: de Havilland
- First Flight: October 1931 (United Kingdom)
- First Canadian Flight: March 1940, Downsview Airport
- Service Years: 1932–1959
- Engine: One de Havilland Gipsy III four-cylinder air-cooled engine
- Primary Role: Flight Trainer
- Operators: Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force and many others
- Still Flying Today: Approximately 300 worldwide (around 40 in Canada)
A BIG Thank you to our volunteers and staff for your hard work and passion!
We appreciate you!
To our patrons, An Avro Arrow Size Thank YOU for your continued support!
