Hawker Hurricane 5389 is one of 1,451 aircraft manufactured in Canada by the Canadian Car and Foundry Company during the 1940s for World War II. It played a vital part in pilot training and protecting Western Canada from submarine and Fugo balloon threats.
- Pilot Training: Initially, it familiarized pilots with the Hurricane at No. 133 Squadron in Lethbridge, Alberta.
- Aerial Missions: Later, it undertook aerial reconnaissance and coastal drills off the coast of Boundary Bay, British Columbia.
- Fugo Balloon Defense: It was transferred to Saskatchewan to locate and neutralize enemy Fugo balloons aimed at setting fire to North American forests.
The aircraft had a few different pilots during its service, including Flying Officer Donald Laubman, Flying Officer Fred Sproule, and Flying Officer Gordon Hill. Flying Officer Gordon Hill was in attendance for the unveiling of the restored Hurricane in 2019, adding a personal touch to the momentous occasion and honoring the legacy of this remarkable aircraft.
After the war, Hurricane 5389 was sold to a farmer in Saskatchewan, where it remained in pieces until it was discovered. The Air Museum of Canada took ownership of it as one of its first aircrafts, but it was disbanded in 1971. The City of Calgary then assumed ownership and kept it until the Aero Space Museum of Canada became its steward and awarded the restoration to the Calgary Mosquito Society.
Beginning in 2012, restoring this rare aircraft was a monumental task, involving many dedicated people and companies. Argus played a crucial role in this project by recreating the wing pins that secure the wings to the fuselage. Using a provided sample, we reverse-engineered and manufactured four complete sets of wing pins, nuts, and washers. Our team's expertise ensured that these components met the highest standards of precision and quality, contributing to the successful restoration of this historic aircraft.
The project was completed in 2019, and Hurricane 5389 now resides at the Calgary Hangar Museum. With over 25,000 work hours invested, Hurricane 5389 stands as a tangible piece of history now preserved for future generations to enjoy. Argus is honored to be a part of this incredible journey in bringing this iconic aircraft back to life!
Leave A Comment