The Comox Heritage Airpark has held the official ground-breaking for the new Vampire Pavilion.

19 Wing and the Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association are currently fundraising to construct a pavilion to house the DeHavilland Vampire Mark III, tail number 17031.

The museum is looking to raise $1.5 million for construction and says they’re sitting at about 40 percent of that goal.

The 1948 Vampire has been at the Airpark since May 2000.

Arriving in flying condition, it was declared an artifact in February 2001.

Impossible to store outside due to its unique wooden construction, it has been kept in a hangar since its arrival.

Construction should be complete by next year, to mark the 100 year anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Donations for the project can b e made online at Comox Air Force Museum.

Donations under $5,000 can also be made in person at the museum.