Defence Minister expected to lay out future of Snowbirds’ jets on Tuesday
Defence Minister David McGuinty is expected to announce the future of Canada's Snowbirds aerobatic team, which uses aging CT-114 Tutor jets. Concerns have been raised about the viability of these 1960s-era planes, with suggestions that grounding them may be necessary for broader military operations. The Snowbirds' 2026 season is set to begin in May, but the fate of the team remains uncertain as discussions continue within the government and military.
- ▪The Snowbirds have been performing for over 50 years, showcasing precision flights and formations.
- ▪Former chief of defence staff Tom Lawson has indicated that grounding the Snowbirds may be necessary due to the aging fleet.
- ▪The fate of the Snowbirds has been a topic of considerable discussion within the defence department.
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Open this photo in gallery:The Canadian Snowbirds fly during the Fleet Week Air Show in San Francisco, on Oct. 10, 2025.Godofredo A. Vásquez/The Associated PressShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountTemporarily grounding Canada’s iconic Snowbirds may be required to ensure the aging planes don’t weigh on broader military operations, says a former chief of defence staff.Tom Lawson, also a former fighter pilot, offered his view ahead of Defence Minister David McGuinty’s planned Tuesday announcement on the fate of the aerobatic flying unit known for its red-and-white jets.For over 50 years, the Snowbirds have engaged audiences with their precision flights and multi-plane formations, but questions have long been raised about the aging 1960s-era CT-114…
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