Historic WWII Hangar Destroyed by Fire at Former Edmonton Airport
Here are the latest updates on the fire that engulfed a historic World War II hangar at Edmonton’s former municipal airport:
- Date: April 23, 2024
- Location: Edmonton, Canada
- Fire Response: Fire crews worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, but the hangar was eventually lost to the flames. Smoke from the fire affected air quality in the area. Also prompting nearby NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) to move classes online as a precaution.
- Endangered Structure: Hangar 11 was not only a cultural landmark. But also an endangered structure, recognized as such by the National Trust for Canada.
Hangar 11 Engulfed in Flames:
An aircraft hangar built during the Second World War at Edmonton’s former Blatchford Field airport has been destroyed by fire. The blaze, which began on Monday evening, also continued to rage into Tuesday morning. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the flames. But the wooden structure eventually collapsed.
Significance of Hangar 11:
Its primary function was to facilitate the movement of American bombers, fighters. And transport planes through to Alaska and the Soviet Union. As one of the last remaining structures of its kind in western Canada. It was one of the last remaining structures of its kind in western Canada.
Impact on Nearby College NAIT:
The poor air quality resulting from the fire forced nearby Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) to take precautions. NAIT moved classes online, asking students and non-essential staff to work remotely.The safety and well-being of the NAIT community remain a top priority.
Investigation and LRT Service Disruption:
Authorities are closely examining the incident to determine the extent of the damage. And also the factors that led to the hangar’s destruction
