North Peace gets a fly by flex from Canada’s biggest bird

All eyes were in the skies last Saturday in the Fort St. John, as the largest plane in the Canadian military thundered through the skies above FSJ.

The Globemaster III is

a versatile military transport aircraft known for its ability to carry troops, heavy cargo, and large combat equipment. Outfitted with advanced digital avionics, it offers a reliable and flexible option for rapid deployment, according to the government.

When Alaska Highway News asked airport employees about the reason for such a visit, they told our reporter “Even if I knew, I couldn’t tell,” leaving us to speculate it was more than just a ’visit’.

Jenessa Lowes posted on social media that her brother was indeed the captain of such an amazing aircraft, which she said would be making a few passes, before landing in the North Peace.

“If you’re around and want to see this huge bird in the sky he’s going to do a couple passes around before landing. It’s the largest aircraft in our Canadian Airforce!” the post read.

Built for long-range flights and rugged conditions, the Globemaster can touch down on remote airstrips which make it an essential asset for military operations, disaster relief, and peacekeeping efforts.

With an estimated flight cost of over $20,000 an hour it’s capable of carrying up to 102 paratroopers or transporting large loads like three CH-146 Griffon helicopters outfitted with refueling tanks.