Fundraiser takes flight: A local United Way held its first-ever Plane Pull

Thirty-eight teams took turns pulling a plane weighing 43,000lbs as part of a United Way fundraiser at London International Airport.

It’s a fundraiser they hope will take off — the United Way Elgin-Middlesex held its first ever Plane Pull on a rainy London International Airport tarmac Wednesday morning.

The 15-member teams took turns dragging the 43,000-pound Air Canada Dash 8.

The goal was to set the best time for moving the aircraft 50 feet.

United Way Elgin Middlesex President Kelly Ziegner told CTV News there were teams from a broad cross-section of organizations and agencies in the region. They included student groups, businesses and labour unions.

Ziegner added, “We had our friends from CAMI and Unifor 88 pulling for their community at a time when they’re going through a tough time themselves. So, we’re so thrilled to see the support here.”

It was announced on Tuesday that operations at the CAMI plant in Ingersoll would be suspended after GM decided to cease production of the BrightDrop EV delivery van.

In total, 38 teams took part in the Plane Pull, raising over $40,000 in pledges.

Locally the United Way helps over 100,000 people each year with various supports, including counselling, food security and housing.

Ziegner said last year alone over 112,000 people benefited from a United Way funded program or service.