From vintage fighter jets to full-throttle flight simulators, this Edmonton event is a dream come true for aviation lovers and curious families alike.
What if you could slide into the cockpit of a Cold War-era jet, run your hands over the controls, and imagine what it was like to soar across the sky decades ago?
That’s exactly what Open Cockpit Day offers, and this year marks its 10th anniversary. Hosted by the Alberta Aviation Museum in Edmonton, this one-day-only celebration has grown into a must-see event for families, aviation fans, and anyone looking for a unique day out.
Whether you’re into history, hands-on experiences, or just want something fun to do with the kids, this is the kind of event that delivers big memories.
A Rare Chance to Climb Into History
Unlike your typical museum visit, where touching is usually off-limits, Open Cockpit Day flips the script. Visitors are encouraged to get inside the story — literally!
With more than 20 aircraft on display and over a dozen cockpits open to explore, it’s a rare chance to sit where real pilots once sat. From rugged bushplanes to sleek jets, these machines have serious stories to tell. And you don’t need to be an aviation buff to be amazed.
Photo ops? Absolutely. But it’s more than that. It’s about the feeling you get when you imagine the wind, the roar, and the risk that comes with every flight. You don’t just see the aircraft, you connect with them!
Inside the museum, things only get better. The flight simulator lab lets you try your hand at navigating the skies in a digital world. It’s as close as most of us will get to flying a plane — and it’s just as exciting as it sounds.
For younger visitors, kid-friendly activities are set up throughout the space, giving them their own adventures to dive into. There’s also plenty of delicious food available from local vendors, so you can refuel between hangars.
Meet the Community. Support the Cause.
This year also includes something new, a community showcase in the event hall.
It’s a space to connect with local nonprofits and community leaders who are making a difference in Edmonton. From youth programming to mental health resources and more, the showcase adds a meaningful layer to the event. And if something resonates with you, you can keep the momentum going by exploring these organizations on CharityAxess.
It’s a reminder that while planes may be the main attraction, it’s people and stories that give this event its heart.
The Details You Need to Know
📍 Location: Alberta Aviation Museum, Edmonton
📅 Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3 PM)
Tickets grant full access to open cockpits, simulators, museum exhibits, and the community showcase.
Open Cockpit Day is a one-of-a-kind journey through the skies of history. Whether you’re visiting with kids, catching up with friends, or rediscovering a childhood fascination with flight, this milestone edition is the perfect excuse to spend a Saturday doing something truly memorable.
Don’t just watch history. Sit in it.
And while you’re there, check out the inspiring community work being done in Alberta. You can find more about the featured charities on CharityAxess.ca. Because when local people come together, whether to fly or to serve, amazing things take off.
Disclaimer: This article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence and has been fact-checked and reviewed by a human editor for accuracy and clarity.
