Introduction to Cherry Red Airline Ltd
Founded in 1928 by Norman Cherry and H. Holroyde, Cherry Red Airline Ltd, also known as the Cherry Air Service, holds the distinction of being the first airline in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.
Cherry identified an untapped demand for transportation services to support Saskatchewan’s burgeoning mining industry, particularly for companies like Consolidated Mining and Smelting, and launched the airline to meet this need.
Fleet and Operations
The airline operated a modest fleet of two aircraft:
- Pheasant Biplane (C-CASR): A two-seat aircraft ideal for short-range operations and light cargo.
- Buhl CA-6 Airsedan (CF-AAY): A six-seat monoplane capable of carrying passengers or cargo, making it versatile for mining-related transport.
Additional Contributions:
- Airmail Services: Cherry Red Airline became the first airmail provider in Prince Albert, issuing collectible stamps starting at $0.10 for delivery. These stamps remain a cherished memory among collectors.
The Decline During the Great Depression
The economic turmoil of the Great Depression (1929–1939) led to a decline in mining activity, significantly reducing the demand for air transportation.
By 1932, the airline ceased operations, unable to sustain itself amidst dwindling revenues.
Fleet Incidents:
- Buhl Airsedan (CF-AAY): Forced to land near La Ronge, Saskatchewan, on October 5, 1929, due to engine failure. While there were no fatalities, the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
- Pheasant Biplane: Sold after the airline’s closure, it crash-landed in 1932 and was left inoperable.
Legacy of the Pheasant Biplane
The Pheasant Biplane languished in storage until it was acquired by the Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw in 1950.
Restoration Efforts:
Volunteers worked diligently from 1960 to 1964 to restore the aircraft to its original condition. Today, it remains part of the museum’s permanent collection, celebrated as Saskatchewan’s oldest surviving airplane and a testament to the province’s early aviation history.
A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience
Although short-lived, Cherry Red Airline Ltd marked a pivotal chapter in Saskatchewan’s aviation history.
The airline showcased the potential for air transport in remote regions and established the foundations for future aviation ventures in the province. Its commitment to innovation, including the introduction of airmail services, continues to inspire.
