When it comes to the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, there's an app for that.
The local museum launched a new app in April aimed at improving accessibility as well as increasing available content and storytelling.
“This innovative new app lets us deliver content in audio and video formats in six different languages: English, French, Spanish, Hindi, German and Anishnaabemowin," says Mary Collier, the centre's curator. "People with physical disabilities are able to view the interior of planes normally accessible to others via 360 degree videos. We’ve developed one tour that explores the Bushplane history as well as a Women in Aviation Scavenger hunt, but intend to add more over the next few years."
The app, which was developed with help of FedNor funding, was officially launched in April and there are plans to add content and tours related to the Ontario Provincial Air Service as well as forest fire fighting. More content from the Indigenous perspective is also planned.
“The greatest opportunity with our new app is the ability to add content and tell stories that we otherwise could not, due to limitations such as cost or physical space,” says Executive Director, Jamie Hilsinger. “We are honoured to develop relationships with the indigenous community to tell a more rounded and complete version of bushplane history. As this endeavour deserves time, consideration and plenty of consultation, we anticipate launching this storyline in 2025.”