The Snowbirds Alumni Association has launched a new national campaign aimed at keeping Canada’s iconic military aerobatic team in the skies during its transition to a new aircraft.
The “No Pause – Keep the Snowbirds Flying” campaign comes after the federal government and Royal Canadian Air Force announced that Snowbird operations will pause at the end of 2026 when the aging CT-114 Tutor fleet is retired.
While recognizing the challenges facing the Canadian Armed Forces, including personnel shortages and maintaining older aircraft, the Association believes there are practical solutions that would allow the Snowbirds to continue flying in a reduced capacity.
Board Chair and former Snowbirds Commanding Officer LCol (Ret’d) Darryl Shyiak said the campaign is encouraging decision-makers to consider transitional options that preserve the team’s expertise, public outreach, and inspirational role.
The Association points to the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows as an example. The British team recently reduced its display formation from nine aircraft to seven while managing its own operational transition.
Former Snowbirds Commanding Officer LCol (Ret’d) Dan Dempsey said the issue is not whether the team should continue inspiring Canadians, but how its specialized skills can be maintained during the transition.
For more than 55 years, the Snowbirds have performed for over 150 million spectators across North America, becoming one of Canada’s most recognized national symbols. The campaign will now seek support from Canadians, veterans, aviation organizations, community leaders, and elected officials to help keep the Snowbirds flying until a new aircraft platform is introduced.
Written by: M. Leblanc
