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Frequently asked questions

Plan your day at the museum with ease by checking out our list of frequently asked questions (FAQ). Whether you’re curious about ticketing or amenities, we’ve got you covered. Explore our FAQ to ensure you make the most of your visit to our museum!

How do I get to the museum?

The museum is located at 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Nestled on the grounds of a former military air base, our location offers visitors a unique experience.

From downtown Ottawa:

  1. Follow Sussex Drive East (becomes the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway)
  2. Exit at Aviation Parkway

From Ottawa West:

  1. Follow Highway 417 East
  2. Take exit 115, St Laurent Blvd North
  3. Turn right on Ogilvie Road
  4. Turn left on Aviation Parkway

From Ottawa East:

  1. Follow Highway 174 West
  2. Take exit 115, St Laurent Blvd North
  3. Turn right on Ogilvie Road
  4. Turn left on Aviation Parkway

The museum is conveniently located on the Ottawa River Pathway. Find out more about the capital’s cycling paths on the National Capital Commission website.

To reach the Canada Aviation and Space Museum by bus, use the OC Transpo Travel Planner. You can also call OC Transpo at 613-741-4390.

Para Transpo serves the area and can be contacted at 613-560-5000.

The museum is conveniently located next to the Ottawa Rockcliffe Airport, home of the Rockcliffe Flying Club. GPS co-ordinates are N45 27 46 W75 38 46. If visiting by airplane:

  1. When you arrive at Rockcliffe, contact the Rockcliffe Flying Club at radio frequency 123.5—club personnel will notify the museum of your visit.
  2. Taxi over to the museum, and park at the northeast corner of the building.

A museum staff member will greet you and escort you to the museum.

How long does it take to visit the museum?

The average museum visit lasts about two hours, allowing visitors to explore our exhibitions at a comfortable pace. However, aviation enthusiasts may find themselves wanting to spend the entire day with us! Our diverse exhibitions and interactive displays offer something for everyone to enjoy, so feel free to take your time and make the most of your visit.

Can I buy a ticket on-site?

Yes, tickets are available on-site, but is it always encouraged to reserve your tickets ahead of time in order to guarantee your spot. Some exceptions may apply during special events.

What happens if I miss my timeslot?

Visitors are responsible for arriving on time for the visit time indicated on their ticket.

Can I leave the museum and re-enter?

Yes, visitors may leave the museum and re-enter with the presentation of a valid ticket from the same day.

Can we sit inside any of the airplanes?

The museum offers several demonstration cockpits for visitors to experience firsthand. These cockpits are specifically designed for interactive experiences, allowing guests to sit in and get a feel for the aircraft. Offering may vary depending on staffing availability.

How do we schedule a flight or helicopter ride?

Visitors wishing to experience the thrill of flight are invited to book their experience through our flight partners. Please visit our flights page for additional details and prices.

Can I take photos?

Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos throughout the museum for personal use, using hand-held devices. Share your museum experience with friends and family by capturing your favorite moments and don’t forget to tag us on social media with the hashtag #AvSpaceMuseum.

Please be mindful of other visitors, keep to designated paths, exercise care near aircraft and avoid using flash photography, especially in sensitive exhibition areas.

Learn more about photography at the museum.

Can I fly a drone at the museum?

Flying drones is not permitted inside or outdoors since there is an airport on the museum’s grounds; however, drone enthusiasts can look forward to demonstrations in our indoor Drone Zone during special events.

Do you have a gift shop?

Yes, our boutique features a delightful gift shop where you can find a wide array of souvenirs, memorabilia, and unique aviation-themed gifts. From model airplanes to books and apparel, our gift shop offers something for everyone. Stop by during your visit to find the perfect memento to commemorate your museum experience! Can’t make it to the boutique in person? Visit us online!

Can I eat at the museum?

Eating is permitted in designated areas, including our museum café. During temperate weather, visitors are also welcome to bring a snack or picnic and eat outdoors on the museum grounds. Please note that food and drink are not permitted within the museum exhibitions.

Do you have wheelchairs and strollers available?

Yes, standard and motorized wheelchairs, as well as strollers, can be borrowed on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge. To sign out an assistive device, please visit our admissions desk. Discover more information about accessibility at the museum.

How do I become a museum member?

Becoming a museum member is easy! You can sign up for membership online or visit the museum’s front desk during regular operating hours. Membership benefits include exclusive access to special events, discounts at the museum boutique and unlimited access to all three Ingenium museums, including the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum and the Canada Science and Technology Museum.

How can I visit the library and archives at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum?

Whether you’re a student, researcher, or aviation enthusiast, our library and archives  offer a wealth of information and resources for you to discover. The library at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.). The library can also be accessed by appointment by contacting: Biblio-archives@IngeniumCanada.org or 343-548-4368.

What items are not permitted inside the museum?

Not sure if you can bring something inside the museum? Check the list of items we commonly get asked about and contact us at if you have any questions.

Permitted items

  • Strollers
  • Purses, baby bags, and backpacks. Note: If wearing a backpack, please use care when moving through the building.
  • Water bottles that are not glass (water filling stations are available on-site)

Prohibited items

  • Any bag exceeding 35cm x 35cm x 15.25cm in size
  • Hard-covered briefcases
  • Flags, banners, or posters that might obstruct a visitor’s view
  • Alcohol and glass bottles
  • Drones or other similar objects
  • Any object that makes noise (bells, horns)
  • Any animal, except service animals
  • Fireworks or other pyrotechnical apparatus
  • Laser pointers
  • Audio visual equipment; i.e., video cameras on tripods (exceptions need preapproval by prior to entry – please contact: contact@IngeniumCanada.org)
  • Weapons of any type
  • Any item prohibited under the Criminal Code of Canada
  • Any item deemed by Ingenium security to be inappropriate

Do you have a visitor code of conduct?

Yes, we do! We ask that all museum visitors follow our code of conduct. These guidelines outline respectful behaviour, so that all can enjoy their museum visit.

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