Pathway to the Stars: 100 Years of the Royal Canadian Air Force

Pathway to the Stars takes readers on a remarkable journey spanning one hundred years of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

This beautifully illustrated book shares the rich history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) on its 100th anniversary. Produced in partnership with the RCAF Foundation, Pathway to the Stars tells the story of the people, the technologies, and the events that shaped the RCAF from 1924 to 2024. Presenting 100 stories to align with 100 years of the RCAF, the book explores the many ways in which the RCAF contributed to advances in aviation over the past century, from the invention of the G-suit to the development of the first helicopter landing system on a naval ship to the design of the first flight-safety organization for investigating crashes.

As we look forward to the next generation of the RCAF, Pathway to the Stars brings to light an inspirational story about Canada and its place in the world over the past century. Proceeds from this book support the ongoing programs of the RCAF Foundation, a Canadian charity that works to celebrate Canada's rich aviation history and future.

Michael Hood joined the Canadian Forces in 1985 and trained as a Navigator on the CC-130 Hercules in the Tactical Airlift Role. He is a retired Lieutenant-General and the former Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, now resident in Kelowna, British Columbia. He is also a proud co-founder of the RCAF Foundation, to which this book’s proceeds are dedicated.


Tom Jenkins has been affiliated with the Royal Canadian Air Force for more than 50 years. He began his career with the RCAF as a Royal Canadian Air Cadet at CFB Trenton in 1972. He has chaired a report on defence procurement for the Canadian government and is currently a member of the RCAF Commanders Advisory Council.