Canadian fighter pilot impressed by new IMAX film

By Lt Chris F. Courtemanche

Capt Dave Pletz, Canadian fighter pilot, on the set of CITY-TV in Toronto.

TORONTO – Captain Dave Pletz, a Canadian fighter pilot with 425 Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, says the new Imax film, Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag, is the next best thing to being there.

“The only way you could actually get the audience to feel closer to the real thing, short of sitting behind me in the cockpit, would be to hand out helmets and oxygen masks to them,” said Pletz after attending the film’s recent premiere in Toronto.

For the veteran pilot and 2004 CF-18 demonstration pilot, the movie is “phenomenal” and very realistic, with a great storyline. “It is a must-see movie”, recommends the pilot.

The Canadian Imax premiere of Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag took place at the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto, on 27 January 2006. The American movie was filmed and produced by famed Canadian director Stephen Low. In the days leading up to the movie’s release to the general public, six advance screenings were held for special interest groups and tourism professionals.

It was during these advance screenings that Capt Pletz met with crowds of aviation enthusiasts and did his best to explain how he feels when flying at Mach One and pulling a couple of Gs.

Filmed during Operation Red Flag a couple of years ago, the movie showcases the intense military training and life of a fighter pilot as well as the incredible dedication and professionalism of the ground crews—all intertwined with the stories of generations of fighter pilots. One scene features 3 Wing Bagotville personnel maintaining their aircraft, and speaking French.

The event drew significant media attention and allowed Capt Pletz  to connect with Canadians in a rather unusual way; he also seized the opportunity to promote a career in the Canadian Air Force.

“I have the best job in the world.”

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