Canadian Forces Snowbirds

Brian MacKenzie-Teepell/USPA 24 News - Canada’s iconic Canadian Forces Snowbirds aerobatic team is poised for an extraordinary transformation as the federal government embarks on an ambitious mission to replace its aging aircraft.

This spring and summer, witness the Snowbirds' extraordinary feats of teamwork and skill as they inspire audiences across North America with their thrilling performances from May to October 2026. This will be the final season that the Snowbirds will fly the iconic Tudor CT-114.

As inspiring representatives of the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds embody the highest standards of excellence, showcasing remarkable skill and unwavering commitment that define CAF members, motivating others to strive for greatness and leaving a lasting legacy of pride and inspiration in their wake. Canada’s iconic Canadian Forces Snowbirds aerobatic team is on the cusp of an extraordinary evolution, with a brief pause until the early 2030s as the federal government invests in a next-generation fleet of aircraft.

Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, proudly revealed a visionary commitment today to acquire a cutting-edge air demonstration capability for the Royal Canadian Air Force, inspiring a new era of excellence. This announcement was made in partnership with Lieutenant-General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, Commander of the RCAF, at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

The Department of National Defence is poised to elevate Canada's air demonstration capabilities with the procurement of the cutting-edge CT-157 Siskin II (Pilatus PC21) for the future Snowbirds team. This versatile aircraft will seamlessly serve as both a training and air demonstration platform, ensuring Canada's rich tradition of aerobatic excellence continues to thrive with a modernized fleet. As the team rebuilds to its iconic nine-plane formation, this enhanced capability will be strategically based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, with operational readiness anticipated in the early 2030s.

As the RCAF anxiously waits for their new aircraft, it will continue to uplift communities across Canada through air shows, events, and outreach initiatives, showcasing the vital contributions of the Air Force and motivating the next generation of leaders to join its esteemed ranks.

The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence had this to say, “For 55 years, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds have been a powerful symbol of excellence for Canadians at home and abroad. Their performances have brought Canadians together in moments of celebration and resilience, while showcasing the professionalism and dedication of the Canadian Armed Forces. As the Royal Canadian Air Force advances its air and space modernization efforts, we remain firmly committed to a future air demonstration capability that continues this proud legacy. The skilled members of 431 Squadron will carry forward their expertise, teamwork, and passion, so that Canadians can continue to be inspired by the Royal Canadian Air Force for generations to come.”

Lieutenant-General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force, said in his remarks; “The members of 431 Air Demonstration Squadron – the Canadian Forces Snowbirds – past and present have been more than ambassadors for the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Air Force: they have been a source of pride and inspiration for generations. Their skill, professionalism, teamwork, and dedication have left an indelible mark on Canada’s aviation heritage. Like so many Canadians, I am immensely proud of all they have accomplished. As the iconic CT-114 Tutor prepares for its final flights, I encourage all Canadians to take in these last opportunities to witness this legendary aircraft and celebrate the team’s incredible 55-years of excellence.”

Stay tuned to USPA 24 News as we continue to highlight the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, a symbol of national pride and inspiration for Canadians from coast to coast. The next installment of this 5-part series, a testament to the team's enduring impact, will be available soon.