A pioneering aviator who set multiple records for long-distance flights and was a key figure in establishing commercial air travel in Canada.
Alfred Edwin McKay, also known as Eddie McKay, was a Canadian flying ace who flew with the Royal Flying Corps during the First World War, credited with ten victories between 1916 and 1917. He is remembered as one of the best pilots produced at the Wright Aviation School, with his exceptional speed and flying skills earning him recognition and accolades.
Born on December 27, 1892, in Brussels, Ontario, Canada, to William and Mary McKay, Eddie moved to London, Ontario, to pursue a Faculty of Arts program at the University of Western Ontario. During his university days, McKay excelled in varsity athletics, particularly in rugby, where his speed was often cited as a reason for the success of Western's 1915 Canadian Junior Championship team.
In March 1916, McKay completed his training at the Wright Aviation School in Augusta, Georgia, and shipped off to Europe as a member of the Royal Flying Corps. Initially assigned to 24 Squadron, he flew an Airco D.H.2 and recorded four victories between July 1916 and January 1917. For his efforts, McKay was promoted to captain and transferred to train new pilots.
However, McKay soon requested to be moved back into a combat role, citing boredom. He was reassigned to 23 Squadron, flying the French-made Spad S. VII, and went on to earn his final six victories within a one-month period between November and December 1917.
On October 26, 1917, McKay was involved in a remarkable dogfight, where he was pursued by German ace Manfred von Richthofen. During the engagement, McKay and fellow pilot Alfred Gerald Knight disrupted Oswald Boelcke and Erwin Bohme's attack, resulting in Boelcke colliding with Bohme.
Tragically, McKay's life was cut short on December 28, 1917, when he was shot down over Belgium. Leutnant Carl Menckhoff of Jasta 2 was credited with the victory, although a German two-seater also claimed a Spad at the same time.
McKay's bravery and exceptional flying skills earned him the Military Cross (MC), a prestigious honor awarded for his courage and devotion to duty.
Eddie McKay was described as a careful flyer, known for his exceptional speed and agility in the air. His university newspaper, The Western University Gazette, often praised his skills, calling him one of the best pilots ever produced at Wright.
Despite his accomplishments, McKay remained humble, requesting to return to combat duty when he felt bored with his training role. His bravery, skills, and humility have made him a revered figure in Canadian military history.
Born in 1894
French colonel and pilot credited with shooting down 75 enemy aircraft during World War I, making him the highest-scoring Allied fighter ace. He also developed innovative aerial combat tactics.
Born in 1890
A Medal of Honor recipient and pioneering aviator, known for his heroic feats in World War I and his leadership in the aviation industry.
Born in 1892
A legendary fighter pilot known as the "Red Baron," credited with 80 aerial combat victories in World War I, earning him legendary status as a flying ace.
Born in 1897
A highly skilled and decorated fighter pilot of World War I, credited with 48 aerial victories, and known for his exceptional flying skills and innovative tactics. 42
Born in 1896
A British flying ace in World War I, credited with 44 victories, and known for his exceptional marksmanship and aggressive combat style. He was a pioneering fighter pilot who helped establish air combat tactics.
