Brandon Municipal Airport Wall of Fame Honours Pioneer Ruby MacDonald

Brandon, MB – The City of Brandon has inducted Ruby MacDonald into the Brandon Municipal Aviation Wall of Fame at a ceremony held at Brandon Municipal Airport. The Wall of Fame, established in June 2023, recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to Brandon’s aviation history.

Ruby MacDonald (1918–2004) was a pioneering female pilot in Brandon, Manitoba. She earned her pilot licenses at the Brandon Flying Club in 1960, becoming the first woman there to achieve a multi-engine rating. MacDonald was also active in promoting women in aviation, serving as Vice-Governor and later Governor of the Canadian Section of The Ninety-Nines, Inc., an international organization of licensed women pilots. Her leadership helped secure the charter for the Canadian Section and organize important events, including the installation of a Canadian Forces jet at the airport entrance.

The Wall of Fame commemorates individuals affiliated with Brandon’s airport in one of three categories: Aviation Achievement, Aviation Pioneer or Builder, and Aviation Industry Leadership/Community Outreach. Previous inductees include Edward Robert McGill and James Douglas Wall.

“The Brandon Municipal Airport has a rich history filled with remarkable stories,” said Greg Brown, Airport Manager of Brandon Municipal Airport. “The Aviation Wall of Fame serves as a meaningful way to preserve and share these stories with future generations. We are thrilled to honour Ruby MacDonald, a member of The Ninety-Nines Inc, which stands as a powerful tribute of the vital contributions made by women in aviation.”

The City of Brandon continues to accept nominations for the Brandon Municipal Airport Wall of Fame. More information can be found online at airport.brandon.ca or by contacting Airport Manager, Greg Brown, at 204-729-2441 or greg.brown@brandon.ca.