KF Centre for Excellence gets ready to take flight
August 30, 2022 – KELOWNA – KF Aerospace was thrilled to host the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the KF Centre for Excellence today, Tuesday, August 30th.
Designed to reflect the fuselage and wings of an aircraft, the KF Centre for Excellence is a legacy project of KF Aerospace Founder and Chairman, Barry Lapointe. The state-of-the-art, 60,000 sq. ft. mass timber building includes two dedicated hangars featuring a rare aircraft collection, while the building's fuselage houses an interactive exhibition that tells the story of aviation in the Okanagan Valley. The building also features an airfield viewing gallery and conference facilities for businesses and events in the region.
“This building will truly be a landmark in the Okanagan Valley for decades to come,” said KF Centre for Excellence Executive Director, Paula Quinn.
“It was built with the entire community in mind, to be a place where those from all generations, cultures and backgrounds can gather. It promises to be a must-see for tourists and locals alike, as well as a major asset to the local business community.”
Prior to the ribbon-cutting, invited guests heard brief speeches from the centre’s Executive Director, Paula Quinn, Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran, Airport Director Sam Samaddar and KF Aerospace Founder and Chairman, Barry Lapointe.
The centre is located at 5800 Lapointe Drive, and will open its doors to the general public on Wednesday, August 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A minimum donation of $10 per family or $5 per person is required.
About the KF Centre for Excellence
The Okanagan Valley has an incredible history of achievement in Canadian aerospace. To celebrate this heritage, the KF Aerospace Centre for Excellence will debut a state-of-the-art aviation museum and conference facility, right next to Kelowna International Airport. Designed to reflect the fuselage and wings of an aircraft, the 60,000 sq. ft. attraction will invite you to discover, connect and inspire. Two dedicated hangars guide you through an historical exhibit of vintage aircraft and memorabilia, connecting to an airfield viewing gallery.
Aircraft on display will include the de Havilland Mosquito bomber, and the much-anticipated, newly-restored Hawker Tempest MKII, among many others.
Welcoming visitors, residents, schools and businesses, the Centre will promote the advancement of aviation, in Kelowna and beyond.
The centre will also be a major asset to the local business community, with an available boardroom and large conference facility.
Mission:
The KF Aerospace Centre for Excellence is a non-profit organization established to promote the aviation industry locally and nationally. Our mission is:
• to celebrate the people and history of our aviation community
• to promote career development through education and training support, and
• to advocate on behalf of the Canadian aerospace community