440 Transport Squadron

KA GANAWAITAK SAGUENAY (He who protects the Saguenay) Significance: The bat is suggestive of night flying and the use of radar and the clouds represent conditions of poor visibility, both of which were especially applicable to the squadron’s role when reformed as an all-weather fighter squadron in the 1950s.

440 Squadron's tasks include airlift, utility and liaison flights in support of Canadian Armed Forces in the north, including support to the Canadian Rangers. Like all Royal Canadian Air Force flying squadrons, 440 Squadron can conduct search and rescue missions when requested by Joint Rescue Coordination Centres. They also conduct free fall live parachute operations, cargo delivery to troops in the field, and fishery patrols on Great Slave Lake. 440 Squadron operates four of the famous Canadian-designed and produced CC-138 Twin Otters to carry out its wide range of tasks. The Squadron operates these rugged aircraft in some of the harshest weather conditions on the planet and is the only formed RCAF unit that is based full-time in the north.

The Squadron is comprised of approximately 55 members who are a mixture of Regular Force and Reserve Force members. In addition to conventional airport operations, the Squadron maintains the capability to conduct "off-airport" operations on skis in the winter and on tundra tires in the summer.

The complete squadron history is available on the National Defence, Directorate of History and Heritage website.

440 Transport Squadron
PO Box 6666
Yellowknife NT X1A 2R3

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