Prior to the Britannia, nicknamed the Whispering Giant, entering service with Canadian Pacific Air Lines the esteemed F. G. Swanborough was invited to experience flying on this propliner from the UK to Vancouver to attend the opening of a new hangar for the type. He also took the opportunity while there to report on the civil aviation scene in western Canada for his article that appeared in the March 7, 1958 issue of The Aeroplane
On arrival in Vancouver Swanborough found a thriving aviation scene and an airline on the up with C.P.A.L. rising through the ranks. However, his visit took place at a crucial time when the future growth of the airline was in the balance as it awaited approval to fly more domestic and international services.
