The Canadian-designed de Havilland CT-120 Chipmunk was used extensively in Canada as an elementary flying trainer from 1952 until 1971 when it was replaced by the Musketeer. 217 Chipmunks were manufactured in Canada, while over 1,000 were made in Britain and 66 in Portugal. It was the first Canadian-designed aircraft to be licensed for manufacture abroad.

The DHC-1 Chipmunk Mark T10, tail number WB550, in the Museum’s collection was flown by the Royal Air Force (RAF). The RAF version differs from the Canadian version by the single large canopy which was considered an asset in the cold Canadian winters. At the time of its retirement, Chipmunk WB550 was the longest-serving aircraft in British aviation history, having amassed more than 12,000 flying hours during its 46 years in service. It was purchased by the Royal Air Force in 1948 and was in service as an RAF training aircraft from November 14, 1949, until March 31, 1996. During that time, it served first at the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment, then went to No. 1 British Flying Training School. It was then transferred to No. 31 Squadron, where it was used in communications until March of 1955. Over the next 15 years, it was with several different RAF units, including the RAF College and various RAF Flying Training Schools. It also had brief service at the University Air Squadrons and Birmingham University Air Squadron.

In 1974, WB550 was transferred to the new Flying Selection Squadron at RAF Swinderby and occasionally was borrowed by the Central Flying School at RAF Scampton. During its time at Swinderby, the Chipmunk took part several times in the King’s Cup Air Race and bore racing numbers. When the Flying Selection Squadron was disbanded in 1992, WB550 was transferred to No. 10 Air Experience Flight at RAF Woodvale. In 1994 and 1995, it was exhibited in the static park at the International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford. After its final flight on March 31, 1996, it was retired and went into storage. It was donated to the National Air Force Museum of Canada by the RAF.