Restoration of Avro Lancaster Bomber, FM104
This historic aircraft was built by Torontonians at Victory Aircraft in Malton. Help us to save one for Toronto.
Stripping paint near the cockpit (Former Lancaster pilot & author, Philip Grey)
Background:
Thousands of Canadians flew in the famous Lancaster Bomber during World War II. Hundreds did not return. This aircraft is a symbol of that sacrifice and the freedom it bought. Lancaster Serial No. FM104 was built in Toronto by Victory Aircraft (later AVRO) in April 1945. It went overseas but was too late to see service as a bomber.
After the war, Lancaster FM104 was converted for ASR, Air-Sea-Rescue, and served in this role at: Greenwood, Nova Scotia: Argentia, Newfoundland and finally, Torbay, Newfoundland.
After many search and rescue missions, and a part in the Cuban Missile crisis, FM104s last flight was to RCAF Station Downsview to take part in the official retirement of Lancasters from RCAF service on April 9, 1964.
In 1965 this aircraft was painted in camouflage colours and mounted on the pylon at the waterfront, across from the east entrance to the C.N.E. grounds. Since that time, corrosion, metal fatigue and vandals have taken their toll and this once-proud aircraft is in danger of being lost forever.