Air Canada Aviation Award

March 2016 - EAA Chapter 63 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, joins the flying community in congratulating one of its members, Bert Elam, for winning the prestigious Air Canada “Award of Excellence.” Bert’s career with Air Canada (AC) began 37 years ago and includes instructing on the DC-9, line indoctrination instructor, AC Pilots Association representative, and especially volunteering with “Dreams Take Flight,” through which AC and many employees send sick children to Disney World. Bert has flown many of Air Canada’s planes, including his current position as captain on the 777.

Bert’s personal commitment to the success of every member of the team over 37 years of flying was applauded at the award ceremony. His dedication and professionalism through the years have been notable, and his work has helped many, many people. He has also been a tremendous asset to the EAA in various capacities. These include flying at EAA Young Eagles events, mentoring ground crew and marshallers for Young Eagles events, volunteering at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, and participation in EAA Chapter 63 fly-outs. 

His friends know that Bert is also active with other aviation organizations including The Ninety-Nine’s women fly events and COPA for Kids, in addition to serving on the executive board of Recreational Airline Association (RAA) and Springfield Flying Club, located at Lyncrest Airport in Winnipeg.

Loved and respected by all who know him, Bert is a compassionate, caring, and generous individual. Congratulations Bert from EAA Chapter 63 - Manitoba (and from all our readers - Editor)!

Left to right: Bert Elam with EAA Chapter 63 President Mark Odegard, John Stiver, and Dan Boyd at the Award of Excellence ceremony. Photo credit Peter Moodie