Vedette (Canadian: 44 )
Canadian Vickers Vedette
Source: Harold A Skaarup Web Page (RCAF Photo courtesy of the Canadian Aviation Preservation Association)
Canadian Vickers Vedette I, RCAF Reg. No. G-CYFS
Canadian Vickers Vedette I, RCAF Reg. No. G-CYFS
The Canadian Vickers Vedette was the first aircraft designed and built in Canada to meet a specification for Canadian conditions. It was a single-engine biplane flying boat purchased to meet a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) demand for a smaller aircraft than the Vickers Viking with a much greater rate of climb, to be suitable for forestry survey and fire protection work. The type went on to have a long and distinguished career in civil operations in Canada. Most of the topographical maps in use in Canada today are based on photos taken from these aircraft.
Based on a preliminary design in early 1924 for a "flying boat" by R.K.Pierson of the British company Vickers, the Canadian Vickers Vedette was a two/three-seat single-engine pusher aircraft. The design was passed over to the subsidiary Canadian Vickers Limited of Longueuil, Quebec (formed in 1911) where Wilfrid Thomas Reid served as Chief Engineer. The prototype Vedette I was first flown on 4 November 1924, powered by a 200 hp (150 kW) Rolls-Royce Falcon III. It was subsequently fitted with 210 hp (160 kW) Wolseley Viper, 200 hp (150 kW) Wright J-4 and 215 hp (160 kW) Armstrong Siddeley Lynx engines for testing. Several versions of the Vedette were produced, including two amphibious versions and one with an enclosed cabin on an all-metal hull. With the exception of these major changes, most of the remaining differences between versions were relatively minor and not externally visible. Each version was produced with a range of optional engine types.
The first production example was provided to Fairchild Aerial Surveys (c/n 31 G-CAFF) before they started designing their own survey aircraft. The majority of the production run was purchased by the RCAF where the aircraft proved popular and versatile, if somewhat temperamental due to leaky hulls that required constant maintenance (a problem afflicting all wooden hulled flying boats). The Vedette undertook photographic and forestry patrols satisfactorily and provided a backbone for RCAF flying operations through the lean peacetime years. Vedettes started a coast-to-coast photographic survey that was needed to map out the large areas of the country still unmapped. These missions lasted until the outbreak of the Second World War, and would be completed after the war with newer types. Vedettes stationed on both coasts were also used for fishing and smuggling patrols, both with the RCAF and with Western Canada Airways. Wikipedia
A hull of one of the Saskatchewan-owned aircraft, along with a replica built by volunteers, are on display at the Western Development Museum, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
Wikipedia Canadian Vickers Vedette
YouTube The Vickers Vedette - A Uniquely Canadian Aircraft
Vickers Vedette at Western Development Museum
Vedette 11
s/n
11c/n
CV52c/r
G‑CYZK, CF‑SAA
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Montreal QC
II
Known Squadron Assignments:
Planned to have enclosed cockpit, specification changed before aircraft was built. Taken on strength on 17 September 1927. Later renumbered as RCAF 11. Reported at Camp Borden. Struck off strength on 21 June 1933 and sold. To civil register as CF-SAA, registered to Saskatchewan Government on 1 June 1933. Withdrawn from use on 23 May 1935.last update: 2025-February-03
1927-September-17 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1928-June-30 Serial Change Renumbered 2019-08-20
1933-June-21 Struck off Strength Struck off, sold. 2020-09-21
Vedette 108
s/n
108c/n
CV100c/r
G‑CAUW
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Previous registration was G-CAUW, issued in 1928, probably for company tests. Taken on strength on 17 January 1929. In use at the Seaplane School at Vancouver, BC in June 1931. Struck off strength on 7 August 1935.last update: 2025-February-03
1929-January-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1935-August-07 Struck off Strength 2020-09-21
Vedette 109
s/n
109c/n
CV101c/r
G‑CAUX
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Previous registration was G-CAUX, issued in 1928, probably for company tests. Taken on strength on 5 January 1929. Category B damage at Vancouver on 5 March 1931. Struck off strength on 14 June 1933.last update: 2025-February-03
1929-January-05 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1931-March-05 Accident Category B Vancouver BC CA 109 2025-02-04
1933-June-14 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 110
s/n
110c/n
CV118c/r
G‑CAUZ
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Previous registration was G-CAUZ, issued in 1928, probably for company tests. Taken on strength on 10 January 1929. Category B damage at Vancouver on 23 August 1929. Struck off strength on 17 September 1934.last update: 2025-February-03
1929-January-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1929-August-23 Accident Category B Vancouver BC CA 110 2025-02-04
1934-September-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 115
s/n
115c/n
CV152
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Montreal QC
VA
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 20 January 1930 as an amphibian. Category B crash somewhere in British Columbia on 17 June 1930. Struck off strength soon afterwards on 26 August 1930.last update: 2025-February-03
1930-January-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1930-June-17 Accident Category B BC CA 115 2025-02-04
1930-August-26 Struck off Strength 2025-02-04
Vedette 123
s/n
123c/n
CV153
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Montreal QC
VA
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 31 January 1930 as an amphibian. Category B damage on 6 February 1931, at Vancouver BC. Stuck off strength on 23 July 1935.last update: 2025-February-03
1930-January-31 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1931-February-06 Accident Category B Vancouver BC CA 123 2025-02-04
1935-July-23 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 124
s/n
124c/n
CV154
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Montreal QC
VA
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 4 February 1930 as an amphibian. Category A crash at Vancouver on 2 March 1931. Struck off strength on 16 June 1931.last update: 2025-February-03
1930-February-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1931-March-02 Accident Category A Vancouver BC CA 124 2025-02-04
1931-June-16 Struck off Strength 2025-02-04
Vedette 803
s/n
803as/n
116c/n
CV130
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IVA
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IVA
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength at Vancouver on 29 July 1929. Category A accident at Vancouver, on 4 November 1930. Probably with Seaplane School at time of accident. Log books lost in a fire at Camp Borden. Used at RCAF Station Jericho Beach, BC, for pilot training. Category D damage on 12 August 1935, when the aircraft was run onto a sandy beach. Category A crash at Point Grey on 4 November 1935, while with 4 (Bomber Reconnaissance) Squadron. Crew was performing an Aldis lamp signalling training flight when the pilot was struck in the face by a bird at a height of about 200 feet. Knocked unconscious, he slumped forward, and the aircraft dove into the water. Pilot seriously injured, observer slightly injured. Both were quickly rescued by the fishing boat "Billy W.". The owner of the boat received $12.00 to cover damage to a mattress and pillows onboard the vessel. Another $25.00 was spent to hire a commercial recovery vessel, the "Port Edward No. 1", to bring in the wreckage. Instruments were salvaged along with some other components before the remaining parts were scrapped. The engine was placed in storage. The aircraft was officially struck off strength on 20 January 1936.last update: 2025-February-03
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1929-July-29 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1930-November-04 Accident Category A Vancouver BC CA 116 2025-02-04
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1935-August-12 Accident Category D 803 Run aground. 2025-02-04
1935-November-04 Accident Category A Vancouver BC CA 803 Bird strike. 2025-02-04
1936-January-20 Struck off Strength 2025-02-04
Vedette 805
s/n
805c/n
CV128c/r
G‑CYZA
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IV / Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IV / Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Delivery to RCAF delayed first by a fire on 17 June 1929 and then by a storm on 7 July 1929. Aircraft repaired and finally delivered to the RCAF in Winnipeg on 27 August 1929, when it was taken on strength as G-CYZA. This registration was also reserved for Armstrong Whitworth Atlas, which became RCAF 17 almost immediately after delivery in December 1927. Assigned to Lac du Bonnet station on 22 May 1930. Went from there to Norway House on 11 August 1930, and then to Cormorant Lake on 13 October 1930. At Ladder Lake on 1 June 1931 and then to Waskesieu Lake on 4 May 1932. Complete overhaul done at Cormorant Lake on 31 May 1933. Back at Lac du Bonnet by 26 September 1933. Assigned to 4 Forestry Detachment on 16 May 1935. Starboard wings burnt in a fire on 20 August 1935. Aircraft repaired and returned to service by 10 October 1935 at Lac du Bonnet. At Trenton by 20 September 1936. In storage at the Airplane Navigation and Seaplane Training School by 4 December 1936, with 636 hours in the log book. Routed to station stores at Trenton on 26 November 1939. Aircraft reduced to spares and produce and struck off strength by 15 January 1940. Mainplanes, tailplanes and rudders shipped to the Technical Training Centre in St. Thomas as training aids.Renumbered from G-CYZA to 805 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1929-August-27 Taken on Strength 2020-09-19
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1940-January-15 Struck off Strength 2020-09-27
Vedette 806
s/n
806c/n
CV124c/r
G‑CYZB
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IV / Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IV / Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength in Winnipeg on 12 July 1929 as G-CYZB. This registration was also reserved for Armstrong Whitworth Atlas, which became RCAF 16 almost immediately after delivery in December 1927. Assigned to 3 Photo Detachment on 22 July 1929. Based at Ladder Lake for a time. At Lac du Bonnet by 5 November 1929. At Berens(?) River by 27 May 1930 and then back at Lac du Bonnet by 18 October 1930. Overhaul completed there on 9 July 1931. Modifications embodied at Lac du Bonnet on 1 November 1933.Arrived at Trenton on 20 September 1936. From 24 September 1936 onwards, used by 6 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron for training at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario, when this unit first formed. Sunk by tornado at Trenton on 29 October 1936. Aircraft was lifted clear of the water and turned over by the tornado, while remaining attached to its moorings. Continuing winds battered the airframe further before it could be recovered the next day. Total airframe hours at the time of the tornado were 557:05. Aircraft struck off strength on 18 January 1937. Instruments, engine, and propeller salvaged and returned to depot as spares.Renumbered from G-CYZB to 806 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1929-July-12 Taken on Strength 2025-02-03
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1936-October-29 Accident Category A 6 (TB) Sqn Trenton ON CA 806 Struck by tornado in moorings. 2025-02-03
1937-January-18 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 807
s/n
807c/n
CV126c/r
G‑CYZE
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx / Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments: 8
Taken on strength at Ottawa Air Station on 19 June 1929 as G-CYZE. This registration also reserved for Armstrong Whitworth Sisken, which became RCAF 21 almost immediately after delivery in December 1927. Sent to Winnipeg on 9 July 1929, and soon afterwards assigned to 5 Photo Detachment on 22 July 1929. Back at Ottawa on 6 November 1929. Returned to 5 Photo Detachment on 5 April 1930 and back at Winnipeg on 14 May 1930. At Norway House on 26 May 1930 and then Lac du Bonnet on 10 June 1930. Returned to Winnipeg on 17 July 1930. Complete overhaul done there and aircraft sent to Lac du Bonnet upon completion on 6 June 1931. Complete overhaul done there on 26 May 1934. With 5 Forestry Detachment at Lac du Bonnet by 29 May 1935. Modifications done at Lac du Bonnet in April 1936. Part of 4 Forestry Detachment by 15 May 1936. Returned to Lac du Bonnet by 13 October 1936.With 8 (General Purpose) Squadron on 23 October 1936. Overhaul done by this squadron in early 1937. Sent to Trenton on 11 June 1937 and then assigned to the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane Training School on 17 June 1937. Sent to station stores at Trenton on 26 November 1939. Reduced to produce and spares by 15 January 1940. Mainplanes, tailplanes, and rudders shipped to the Technical Training Centre at St. Thomas as training aids.
Renumbered from G-CYZE to 807 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1929-June-19 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1940-January-15 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 808
s/n
808c/n
CV162c/r
G‑CYWJ
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on Strength on 5 May 1930 at Ottawa Air Station. Assigned to Winnipeg on 19 May 1930. With 3 Photo Detachment by 25 May 1930. Sent to Lac du Bonnet on 14 October 1930. Back with 3 Photo Detachment on 14 May 1931. At Buffalo Park Sub-Station in August 1931. Semi-overhaul completed on 28 August 1931. Returned to Lac du Bonnet on 9 November 1931. Complete overhaul completed at Lac du Bonnet on 18 February 1933. Modifications completed at Lac du Bonnet on 26 May 1934. At Ottawa Air Station by 25 August 1934. Assigned to Trenton on 27 October 1936. Sent to Storage at the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane Training School in Trenton on 4 December 1936. Routed to Station Stores at Trenton on 26 November 1939. Reduced to spares and produce and Struck off Strength by 15 January 1940. The mainplane, tailplane, and rudder were shipped to the Technical Training Centre in St. Thomas to aid with training.Renumbered from G-CYWJ to 808 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-05 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1940-January-15 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 809
s/n
809c/n
CV160c/r
G‑CYWL
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments: 4; 13
Taken on Strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Later based at Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. Still registered as G-CYWL when it struck a deadhead while landing at Golden Lake, Ontario in May 1930. Repaired on site, flown back to Lac du Bonnet the next day. Later blew a cylinder on same detachment, damaging propellor and holing hull. Again, local repairs allowed a flight back to Lac du Bonnet. Complete overhaul done at Lac du Bonnet on 26 May 1934. Complete overhaul done at Trenton on 22 July 1938.With 4 (Bomber Reconnaissance) Squadron, RCAF Station Jericho Beach, BC, 1936 to 1939. In Stored Reserve on 9 September 1939. Assigned to Seaplane School in Vancouver on 4 March 1940. Sent to Western Air Command on 1 April 1940, as part of 13 (Operational Training) Squadron, RCAF Stations Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, 1940 to 1941. One of last four operational Vedettes, in 1940. Reduced to produce and spares and Struck off Strength on 29 January 1941. The wooden hull was assessed to have no instructional value.
Renumbered from G-CYWL to 809 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1941-January-29 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 810
s/n
810c/n
CV159c/r
G‑CYWM
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Assigned to Winnipeg on 19 May 1930, and became part of 4 Photo Detachment on 29 May 1930. At Lac du Bonnet by 14 October 1930. Partial overhaul completed at Lac du Bonnet on 22 April 1931. Complete overhaul completed at Lac du Bonnet on 18 February 1933. Partial overhaul and modifications completed at Lac du Bonnet on 26 May 1934. At Trenton on 20 September 1936. Sent to storage at the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane Training School in Trenton on 4 December 1936. Routed to shops in Trenton on 5 April 1938, and then to the equipment section on 27 December 1939. Struck off strength and reduced to produce and spares on 15 January 1940. The mainplane, tailplane, and rudder shipped to the Technical Training Centre in St. Thomas as training aids.Renumbered from G-CYWM to 810 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1940-January-15 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 811
s/n
811c/n
CV158c/r
G‑CYWN
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments: 8
Taken on Strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Sent to Winnipeg on 14 May 1930 to become part of 5 Photo Detachment. At Lac du Bonnet by 14 October 1930. Partial overhaul completed at Lac du Bonnet on 14 May 1931, after which it was assigned to 5 Photo Detachment. Back at Lac du Bonnet again on 9 November 1931. Served with 8 (General Purpose) Squadron, RCAF Station Rockcliffe, starting 23 October 1936. Modifications completed by 8 (General Purpose) Squadron on 11 June 1937, after which it was sent to Trenton to fly for the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane Training School. Category A crash at Trenton on 4 August 1937. Flying Officer J.L. Hanning killed, Cpl. M. Collins seriously injured. Stalled while attempting a forced landing in the Bay of Quinte following an engine failure. Had 383:35 airframe time when struck off on 17 November 1937.Renumbered from G-CYWN to 811 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1937-August-04 Accident Category A ANSTS Trenton ON CA 811 Crashed after engine failure. 2025-02-03
1937-November-17 Struck off Strength 2025-02-03
Vedette 812
s/n
812c/n
CV157c/r
G‑CYWO
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments: 13
Taken on strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Based at Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. Partial overhaul completed there on 22 April 1931. Complete overhaul completed there on 26 May 1934. Assigned to Trenton and minor repairs completed there in September 1937. A complete overhaul was done by Canadian Vickers on 10 June 1939. With the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane School in Trenton on 9 September 1939. Assigned to the Seaplane School in Vancouver on 4 March 1940, and then to Western Air Command on 1 April 1940 to be part of 13 (Operational Training) Squadron, RCAF Stations Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, 1940 to 1941. One of last four operational Vedettes, in 1940. Free Issue to a Technical School in Vancouver on 11 January 1941, with 715:50 hours in the log book.Renumbered from G-CYWO to 812 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1941-January-11 Struck off Strength 2020-09-19
Vedette 813
s/n
813inst
A 24c/n
CV156c/r
G‑CYWP
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVA/IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVA/IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Assigned to Winnipeg on 19 May 1930, and sent from there to Cormorant Lake on 29 May 1930. Modifications completed at Cormorant Lake on 18 February 1932. Back at Winnipeg on 13 July 1933, and assigned to Vancouver on 31 July 1933. Modifications completed at Vancouver on 23 March 1936. With 4 (Bomber Reconnaissance) Squadron, RCAF Station Jericho Beach, BC, 1936 to 1939 for pilot training. Modifications completed by 4 Squadron on 5 June 1937 in Vancouver. Sent to station stores in Vancouver on 26 June 1939. Converted to Instructional Airframe A 24 on 24 November 1939. Sent to 3 Repair Depot on 4 December 1939 and then reduced to spares and produce and struck off on 3 April 1940 in Vancouver.Renumbered from G-CYWP to 813 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2020-08-17
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1939-November-24 Classified Instructional A 24 2020-06-09
1940-April-03 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 814
s/n
814c/n
CV155c/r
G‑CYWQ
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVA/IVB
Montreal QC
VA
Lynx IVA/IVB
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength at Ottawa Air Station on 8 May 1930. Assigned to Winnipeg on 19 May 1930, and then to Ladder Lake on 29 May 1930. Sent to Cormorant Lake on 31 October 1930. Partial overhaul at Cormorant Lake on 30 December 1931. Complete overhaul done at Cormorant Lake on 18 February 1933. Assigned to Lac du Bonnet station on 15 July 1933. Partial overhaul done at Lac du Bonnet on 26 May 1934. Returned to Ottawa Air Station on 1 October 1934. Sent to Trenton to operate as a trainer on 5 November 1936. Minor repairs completed at Trenton on 20 April 1937.Renumbered from G-CYWQ to 814 in 1932.
Crashed while attempting a forced landing into Cranberry Swamp, between Brighton and Trenton, Ontario on 23 September 1937. Was being operated by the Air Navigation and Seaplane School on a Air Navigation exercise #2. Engine cut due to engine-driven fuel pump drive shaft failure, and aircraft was unable to glide to open water before crashing, although the planned course should have made this possible. Aircraft overshot intended touchdown point and struck trees. All 3 occupants uninjured. Wreckage was left in place, after salvaging engine and instruments, due to difficulty in moving in the swamp. Aircraft officially struck off strength on 17 November 1937.
Hull fragments salvaged in 1977 and now with the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Rockcliffe. Fragments were slung out under a CH135 Twin Huey from 424 (Transport & Rescue) Squadron.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum Collection
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2025-02-02
1937-September-23 Accident Category A ANSTS Cranberry Swamp ON CA 814 Crashed after engine failure. 2025-02-03
1937-November-17 Struck off Strength as RCAF 814 2025-02-03
Vedette 816
s/n
816c/n
CV123/CV170c/r
G‑CYZD
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V / VAM
Lynx IVB
Montreal QC
V / VAM
Lynx IVB
Known Squadron Assignments: 4; 13
Taken on strength on 14 June 1929 at 1 Depot in Ottawa. Aircraft returned to Canadian Vickers on 26 November 1930 to be rebuilt as a VAM, with the metal fuselage of CV170. Conversion completed by 11 May 1931. Minor modifications made at 1 Depot in Ottawa on 19 June 1931. Received slight damage on 22 August 1931 at Hutchinson's Wharf on Fairy Lake, near Huntsvile, Ontario. Was being operated by the Civil Aviation branch, by a civilian pilot. Small fire on the lower starboard wing, as aircraft was approaching the dock, possibly started by hot carbon particles from engine exhaust. Fire extinguished by dock workers, using new "fire gas" type extinguishers. No injuries. From witness reports the aircraft may have still had "ZD" markings in place. Partial overhaul and modifications completed at Ottawa in May 1938. Complete overhaul done by Canadian Vickers by 18 June 1939.With the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane Training School in Trenton on 9 September 1939. Sent to Vancouver by 17 January 1940 and assigned to 4 (Bomber Reconnaissance) Squadron, RCAF Station Jericho Beach BC on 19 January 1940. Assigned to Western Air Command, with 13 (Operational Training) Squadron, RCAF Stations Sea Island or Patricia Bay BC, on 1 April 1940. One of last four operational Vedettes, in 1940. Noted as beyond economical repair at Patricia Bay and struck off strength on 26 May 1941, with 1062:20 total flying time.
Renumbered from G-CYZD to 816 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-02
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1929-June-12 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1931-May-11 Conversion Canadian Vickers G-CYZD from V to VAM, with a metal hull. 2025-02-03
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1941-May-26 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette 817
s/n
817c/n
CV163c/r
G‑CYWI
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VI
Wright J-6D
Montreal QC
VI
Wright J-6D
Known Squadron Assignments: 13
Taken on strength 13 May 1930 at Ottawa Air Station as a Vedette VI.with enclosed cockpit and lengthened metal hull. Enclosure probably removed shortly after delivery to RCAF. Based at Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba for a time. Overhaul and modifications completed at 1 Depot in Ottawa on 12 June 1933. Damaged in a heavy landing at Ottawa on 1 August 1934.Complete rebuild done at Canadian Vickers on 27 May 1935. Waterlooped in a glassy water landing at Ottawa on 25 September 1935, minor damage. Had 475:30 logged time on that date. Reconditioning done at Canadian Vickers on 2 June 1938.Category C damage at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario on 19 July 1938. Pilot ducked to avoid being hit by a duck at low altitude, lost control and aircraft landed heavily. Floats and lower wing damaged. Wing and floats replaced, thus Category C damage.Assigned to the Aircraft Navigation and Seaplane School in Trenton on 9 September 1939. Complete overhaul at Canadian Vickers in May 1940. Assigned back to the Navigation and Seaplane School on 20 April 1940, this time in Vancouver. With 13 (Operational Training) Squadron, RCAF Stations Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, 1940 to 1941. Damaged at Patricia Bay on 9 December 1940, pilot attempted to take off with trim set incorrectly, aircraft landed heavily immediately after first lift off. Reported then as last Vedette in service. Aircraft struck off strength as Free Issue to a Youth Training School in Edmonton on 11 January 1941.
Renumbered from G-CYWI to 817 in 1932.
last update: 2025-February-01
RCAF Aircraft Record Card1930-May-08 First Flight 2020-08-17
1930-May-13 Taken on Strength 2020-09-23
1932-January-01 Serial Change renumbered 2019-08-20
1935-September-25 Accident Category C Ottawa ON CA 817 Waterlooped on landing. 2025-02-03
1938-July-19 Accident Category C Trenton ON CA 817 Loss of control during landing. 2025-02-03
1941-November-11 Struck off Strength 2020-09-23
Vedette GCYFS
s/n
GCYFSc/n
CV9c/r
G‑CYFS
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
I
Wright J-4
Montreal QC
I
Wright J-4
Known Squadron Assignments: 3
First Vedette prototype. First flight 4 November 1924, without military or civil registration, by Flying Officer W. N. Plenderlieth, RAF. Originally had RR Falcon engine. Wolsley Viper engine installed by 22 November 1924. First flight with Wright J-4 engine 9 May 1925, also first flight by RCAF pilot. By this time marked as "FS". Taken on strength by RCAF on 17 July 1925 as a trial for the Vedette design. Used by 3 (Operations) Squadron at Rockcliffe and Shirleys Bay Ontario, 17 July 1925 to 1927. Successful tests here led to large orders for additional Vedettes. Based at Shirleys Bay, Ontario by summer of 1926. Operated from Larder Lake, Ontario that fall, for survey work over Rouyn. Photo surveys over Muskoka are of Ontario in summer of 1927. Crewman injured by propellor while checking wind driven generator. Pilot attempted emergency landing, overshot lake and landed in grass field without further injuries. Aircraft struck off strength on 25 November 1927.last update: 2025-February-05
1925-July-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1927-November-25 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash landing at Torrance, Ont. In July (or August?) 1927, see comments 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYGA
s/n
GCYGAc/n
CV53c/r
G‑CYGA, CF‑SAE, G‑CAGA
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Wright J-4B
Montreal QC
II
Wright J-4B
Known Squadron Assignments:
Re-used registration, from HS-2L. Formerly G-CAGA, first registered on 17 May 1927 to Canadian Vickers, was purchased second hand from the estate of Dalzell McKee. Aircraft was built to McKee's order, apparently never delivered to him before his death.Taken on strength by RCAF on 2 Aug 1927. With 5 Photo Detachment at Rockcliffe, Ontario in 1929. Left Rockcliffe on 6 June that year for detachment to Kashabowie, Ontario. The flight took 14 hours flying time, over 8 days. Struck off strength on 27 September 1934.
To civil register as CF-SAE, registered to Saskatchewan Government on 29 September 1934. Destroyed when pilot bailed out after aircraft became inverted in turbulence near Stony Lake, Saskatchewan on 27 May 1936.
A replica of CF-SAE is on display at the Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw, along with the remains of an original Vedette that is likely CF-SAE.
last update: 2025-February-05
1927-August-02 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1934-September-27 Struck off Strength and sold. Became CF-SAE. 2025-02-01
Vedette GCYGW
s/n
GCYGWc/n
CV32c/r
G‑CYGW
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments: 3
First production Vedette for the RCAF, taken on strength on 20 August 1926. Operated throughout Western Canada by 1 (Operations) Wing out of Winnipeg, Man. One of first two Vedettes at this base, started survey work over eastern Manitoba and north-west Ontario in fall of 1926. Seen at Norway House, Manitoba. Used by 3 (Operations) Squadron at Rockcliffe and Shirleys Bay, Ont., dates unknown. Struck off strength date unknown, but likely no later than 1936.last update: 2025-February-05
1926-August-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYGX
s/n
GCYGXc/n
CV33c/r
G‑CYGX
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 10 September 1926. One of first two Vedettes at Winnipeg, Manitoba, started survey work over eastern Manitoba and north-west Ontario in fall of 1926. Category A accident at Ladder Lake Saskatchewan in the summer of 1927 while attempting to land on glassy water. No injuries. Aircraft struck off strength on 20 July 1927.last update: 2025-February-05
1926-September-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1927-July-20 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYGY
s/n
GCYGYc/n
CV34c/r
G‑CYGY, CF‑SAD
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength by the RCAF on 20 August 1926. Seen at Lac du Bonnet. Struck off strength on 6 May 1936. To civil register as CF-SAD, registered to Saskatchewan Government. Withdrawn from use on 5 May 1937.last update: 2025-February-05
1926-August-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1936-May-06 Struck off Strength and sold 2025-02-01
Vedette GCYGZ
s/n
GCYGZc/n
CV35c/r
G‑CYGZ
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Wright J4
Montreal QC
II
Wright J4
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 3 August 1926. Based at Shirleys Bay, Ontario by summer of 1926. Operated from Larder Lake, Ontario that fall, for survey work over Rouyn. Used for photo surveys from Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. Struck off strength date unknown, but likely no later than 1936.last update: 2025-February-05
1926-August-03 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYVP
s/n
GCYVPc/n
CV146c/r
CF‑AIR, G‑CYVP
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Wright J-6
Montreal QC
V
Wright J-6
Known Squadron Assignments:
Civil registration CF-AIR issued on 7 August 1929 for company tests, not clear if ever marked. Delivered to the RCAF as an amphibian and taken on strength on 4 February 1930 as a replacement for G-CYWR, which crashed during the initial test flights. Used for ski trials. Badly damaged when ski fitting failed during takeoff at St. Hubert, Quebec on 6 March 1930. Probably only Vedette fitted with skiis. Aircraft struck off strength on 29 December 1930.Nose section used as training aide for many years and now at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Rockcliffe.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum Collection
last update: 2025-February-05
1930-February-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1930-March-06 Accident Category A St. Hubert QC CA G-CYVP Ski fitting failed during takeoff. 2025-02-03
1930-December-29 Struck off Strength 2025-02-03
Vedette GCYWK
s/n
GCYWKc/n
CV161c/r
G‑CYWK
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
VA
Montreal QC
VA
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on Strength on 1 May 1930. Category A crash at Lac du Bonnet on 18 May 1933. Struck off Strength on 8 August 1933.last update: 2025-February-05
1930-May-01 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1933-May-18 Accident Category A Lac du Bonnet MB CA G-CYWK 2025-02-03
1933-August-08 Struck off Strength 2025-02-03
Vedette GCYWR
s/n
GCYWRc/n
CV151c/r
CF‑AIV, G‑CYWR
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Wright J6
Montreal QC
V
Wright J6
Known Squadron Assignments:
Civil registration CF-AIV issued for initial company tests on 7 August 1929, but not clear if ever marked. Crashed a few days after first flight, on 4 November 1929. Landed in a suburb of Montreal. Flying Officer P. G. Stanley and Flying Officer J. McLaughlan killed. Later taken on strength on for accounting reasons.last update: 2025-February-05
1929-October-25 Taken on Strength 2020-09-19
1929-November-04 Struck off Strength Crashed on test flight, struck off same day. See comments. 2019-08-20
1929-November-04 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer John C McLaughlan 2021-05-23 1929-November-04 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Paul Gordon Stanley 2021-05-23Vedette GCYWS
s/n
GCYWSc/n
CV150c/r
G‑CYWS, CF‑AIU
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Wright J6
Montreal QC
V
Wright J6
Known Squadron Assignments:
Civil registration CF-AIU issued for initial company tests on 7 August 1929, but not clear if ever marked. Taken on strength by the RCAF on 6 November 1929. Flew lengthy survey mission over Canadian Arctic, June to August 1930, with Fairchild 71 G-CYVX. Operated from Great Bear Lake for part of this period. With 2 General Purpose Detachment at Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1931, when it returned to Great Bear Lake. Converted to amphibian, date unknown. Struck off strength by 18 October 1935.last update: 2025-February-05
1929-November-06 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1935-October-18 Struck off Strength Struck off, never received RCAF serial. 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYXZ
s/n
GCYXZc/n
CV90c/r
G‑CYXZ, CF‑MAD
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 26 July 1928. Ferried from Rockcliffe, Ontario to 3 Photo Detachment at Sioux Lookout, Ontario early 1929, via North Bay, Sudbury, Oba Lake, and Orient Bay. Used at Cormorant Lake. Struck off strength and sold to the Province of Manitoba on 13 May 1932. To civil register as CF-MAD, registered to Manitoba Government Air Service on 2 June 1932. Withdrawn from us on 23 May 1935, no further information.last update: 2025-February-05
1928-July-26 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1932-May-13 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYA
s/n
GCYYAc/n
CV76c/r
G‑CYYA, CF‑MAC
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 16 June 1928. Used at Ladder Lake. Struck off strength and sold to the Province of Manitoba on 13 May 1932. To civil register as CF-MAC, registered to Manitoba Government Air Service on 2 June 1932. Withdrawn from use on 23 May 1935, no further information.last update: 2025-February-05
1928-June-16 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1932-May-13 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYB
s/n
GCYYBc/n
CV73c/r
G‑CYYB
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 14 June 1928. Used at Lac du Bonnet. Struck off strength by 25 November 1931.last update: 2025-February-02
1928-June-14 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1931-November-25 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYC
s/n
GCYYCc/n
CV72c/r
G‑CYYC, CF‑MAE
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 14 June 1928. Used at Cormorant Lake. Struck off strength on 13 May 1932 and sold to the Province of Manitoba. To civil register as CF-MAE, registered to Manitoba Government Air Service on 2 June 1932. Engine caught fire on shut down at dock at Cranberry Portage, Manitoba on 28 July 1932, aircraft totally destroyed.last update: 2025-February-02
1928-June-14 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1932-May-13 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYD
s/n
GCYYDc/n
CV71c/r
G‑CYYD, CF‑MAB
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 18 March 1928. Based at Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba. Struck off strength on 13 May 1932 and sold to Manitoba government for $1.00. Became CF-MAB, registered to Manitoba Government Air Service on 2 June 1932. Withdrawn from use on 9 May 1935, no further information.last update: 2025-February-02
1928-March-18 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1932-May-13 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold to Manitoba Air Sevice 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYE
s/n
GCYYEc/n
CV58c/r
G‑CYYE
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 3 March 1928. Used at Winnipeg, Manitoba. Struck off strength on 23 May 1929.last update: 2025-February-02
1928-March-03 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1929-May-23 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYYF
s/n
GCYYFc/n
CV57c/r
G‑CYYF
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
II
Armstrong Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 29 March 1928. First Vedette delivered with strengthened front hull and wing carry through structure, later retrofitted to all surviving aircraft. Featured in Canadian Vickers ad in December 1928 issue of Canadian Aviation magazine. Used in northern Ontario. Category A crash on 17 July 1930. Struck off strength on 4 September 1930.last update: 2025-February-02
1928-March-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1930-July-17 Accident Category A G-CYYF 2025-02-03
1930-September-04 Struck off Strength 2025-02-03
Vedette GCYYZ
s/n
GCYYZc/n
CV125c/r
G‑CYYZ, CF‑SAC
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 9 July 1929. Seen at Rockcliffe with nose mounted oblique camera in August 1929. First RCAF Vedette with wing slots. Struck off strength and sold on 23 August 1933. Became CF-SAC, registered to the Government of Saskatchewan on 19 August 1933. Withdrawn from use on 21 May 1936.last update: 2025-February-02
1929-July-09 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1933-August-23 Struck off Strength and sold. 2025-02-03
Vedette GCYZC
s/n
GCYZCc/n
CV127c/r
G‑CYZC
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 15 June 1929. Destroyed by storm while moored in Manitoba, one month after arriving there. Struck off strength on 21 October 1929.last update: 2025-February-02
1929-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1929-October-21 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYZF
s/n
GCYZFc/n
CV149c/r
G‑CYZF, CF‑MAA
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Montreal QC
V
Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx
Known Squadron Assignments:
The original G-CYZF, CV122, crashed before delivery on 17 May 1929 during spinning trials, caused by a lack of sufficient weight in the nose that forced the aircraft into an unrecoverable spin. Company pilot, famed bush-pilot C.S. "Jack" Caldwell, bailed out. (Possibly first successful parachute save in Canada.) Replaced by CV149 and taken on strength by the RCAF on 8 August 1929. This registration also reserved for Armstrong Whitworth Siskin, which became RCAF 20 almost immediately after delivery in December 1927. Aircraft struck off strength by 13 May 1932 and was sold to the Province of Manitoba. Later became CF-MAA, with Manitoba Government Air Service from 2 June 1932. Withdrawn from service on 15 April 1937.last update: 2025-February-04
1929-August-08 Taken on Strength (CV 149) 2019-08-20
1932-May-13 Struck off Strength and sold to Manitoba. 2025-02-03
Vedette GCYZL
s/n
GCYZLc/n
CV51c/r
G‑CYZL
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Montreal QC
II
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 26 August 1926. Survey missions over Quebec in summer of 1928. With No. 5 Photo Detachment at Rockcliffe, Ontario in 1929. Left Rockcliffe on 6 June that year for detachment to Kashabowie, Ontario. The flight took 14 hours flying time, over 8 days. Category A accident on 18 June 1929. Aircraft struck off strength on 5 September 1929.last update: 2025-February-03
1927-August-26 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1929-June-18 Accident Category A G-CYZL 2025-02-04
1929-September-05 Struck off Strength 2025-02-04
Vedette GCYZM
s/n
GCYZMc/n
CV50c/r
G‑CYZM, CF‑SAB
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Lynx IV
Montreal QC
II
Lynx IV
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 17 May 1927. Used at Lac la Ronge SK. Struck off strength on 21 June 1933 and sold to the Saskatchewan Government, became CF-SAB. Withdrawn from use on 28 May 1937.last update: 2025-February-03
1927-May-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1933-June-21 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYZN
s/n
GCYZNc/n
CV41c/r
G‑CYZN
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Montreal QC
II
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 15 March 1927 as an amphibian. Operated throughout Western Canada by 1 (Operations) Wing out of Winnipeg Manitoba, detached to Cormorant Lake for a time. Struck off strength on 8 January 1931.last update: 2025-February-03
1927-March-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1931-January-08 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Vedette GCYZO
s/n
GCYZOc/n
CV40c/r
G‑CYZO
Canadian Vickers
Montreal QC
II
Montreal QC
II
Known Squadron Assignments:
Taken on strength on 24 March 1927. Operated throughout Western Canada by 1 (Operations) Wing out of Winnipeg MB. Category A crash on 10 September 1929 during a landing on glassy water, with three fatalities: Flying Officer Gerard Lemoine and two civilian firefighters. Struck off strength on 16 November 1929.last update: 2025-February-03
1927-March-24 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1929-September-10 Accident Category A G-CYZO 2025-02-04
1929-November-16 Struck off Strength 2025-02-04
1929-September-10 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Gerard Alphonsus A Lemoine 2021-03-22To search on any page:
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