Air Canada pilots help spirits soar at Alberta Children’s Hospital

‘Creating art with the pilots gives children encouragement and a sense of control’

Story by Melanie Veriotes | Photo by Leah Hennel

CALGARY — For one afternoon, Alberta Children’s Hospital (ACH) became a runway for creativity, as Air Canada pilots touched down to spend time with young patients as part of the Wings of Courage program.

Wearing full uniform, the pilots joined children and families in art activities, answered questions about flying and shared the excitement of aviation.

Once art projects were complete, patients received a wings pin, along with honorary Wings of Courage pilot certificates and medals. The visit offered a welcome break from hospital routines and a chance for kids to connect, create and imagine.

“Our patients show incredible courage every day,” says Jewel Loewen, an art therapist at ACH. “When they receive their Wings of Courage certificate and medal, they’ve truly earned it. It recognizes their strength, resilience and the bravery they bring to their healing journey.”

Loewen adds that the creative aspect of the visit plays an important role in supporting children’s well-being.

“Creating art with the pilots gives children encouragement and a sense of control,” she says. “It allows them to choose what they create, something that really matters in a hospital, where many decisions are made for them.” The experience is equally meaningful for the pilots.

“We always enjoy these visits,” says Captain Calvin Schalin, one of the participating pilots. “They give us the chance to connect with the kids and their families, share a bit of what we do, and hopefully make their day a little brighter. Seeing their creativity and excitement reminds us why these visits matter.”

Created by retired Air Canada Captain Chuck McKinnon after in-flight cockpit visits ended in 2001, the Wings of Courage program, supported by the Air Canada Foundation, was designed to bring the wonder of aviation to children who may not otherwise experience it.

With more “flights” ahead and medals to be earned, the Wings of Courage program continues to touch down monthly at ACH throughout the year.

Each visit brings two Air Canada pilots ready to share their stories, spark creativity and inspire young patients, proving that even a short journey can make a lasting difference.