Sarnia, Ontario — The aviation community is mourning the loss of Roger Hadfield, a pioneering flight instructor and patriarch of Canada’s “First Family of Flight,” who passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 88.
In April 1958, Roger Hadfield made history by becoming the first person to land an aircraft at what would later be known as Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport. While en route to Pelee Island, Hadfield was forced to make an emergency landing in a freshly bulldozed field northeast of Sarnia due to a passenger falling ill. This impromptu landing marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship between the Hadfield family and the airport. Shortly thereafter, Hadfield was hired as the airport’s first full-time flying instructor, a role he embraced with dedication and passion.
Roger Hadfield’s contributions to aviation extended beyond his role as an instructor. He played a pivotal part in the development of Sarnia’s aviation community, mentoring countless students and fostering a love for flying in the region. His legacy is carried on by his children, including his son, Colonel Chris Hadfield, a retired Canadian astronaut, and his other son, David Hadfield, a former Air Canada pilot. Together, they are celebrated as the “First Family of Flight.”
Roger Hadfield is survived by his wife, Eleanor, and their five children. The family has requested privacy during this time of mourning.
A memorial service to honor Roger Hadfield’s life and legacy will be announced in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity of choice in his name.
The Sarnia community has lost a remarkable individual whose impact on aviation and dedication to fostering the next generation of pilots will be remembered for years to come.