The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are preparing for an emotional farewell this Saturday as they take to the skies over Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, marking the final hometown performance of their iconic CT-114 Tutor jets before the fleet is retired from service.
A Bittersweet Transition for Canada’s Aerial Icons
Federal Defence Minister David McGuinty announced in May that the beloved Tutor jets will be replaced by CT-157 Siskin II aircraft. However, the transition means the aerobatic team will be temporarily grounded after this summer until the new planes are procured and ready for service in the early 2030s.
Lt.-Col. Guillaume Paquet, commanding officer of the Snowbirds, described this season as particularly meaningful. He compared the moment to watching children leave for university, acknowledging the sadness of saying goodbye to the Tutor while expressing optimism about the fleet renewal. For Paquet, performing for the Moose Jaw community that has supported the team for 55 years represents a true privilege.
A Legacy of Inspiring Canadians
Dan Dempsey, who served as squadron commanding officer in 1989 and 1990 and flew as a Snowbird in the late 1970s, emphasized the team’s role as national unifiers. According to Dempsey, no one carries the Canadian flag to as many locations or inspires as many young people as the Snowbirds do. He stressed that losing the team would mean losing the ability to influence future generations.
Roger Blager, president of the Moose Jaw Flying Club, admitted the announcement came as a shock to many in the community despite earlier speculation. While he remains confident the Snowbirds will return with their new aircraft, Blager acknowledged that skepticism runs deep among local residents who worry about the program’s future.
Looking Ahead
The Snowbirds first performed in Moose Jaw on July 11, 1971, and have called 15 Wing Moose Jaw home ever since. Defence officials have confirmed the team will remain at that base when the new aircraft arrive, offering hope that this farewell is not a permanent goodbye but rather the beginning of a new chapter for Canada’s most beloved aerial performers.
