Canadian Forces Snowbirds, officially known as 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, are the military aerobatics flight demonstration team of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Taking advantage of a beautiful sunny day, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds perform their fantastic high routine during the first day of the 2011 Abbotsford airshow.
Friday, August 12, 2011.
Air show video:
Although less imposing than a Blue Angels F-18 or a Thunderbirds F-16, these magnificent Canadair Tutor jets are elegant and beautiful to watch. And the fact that there are nine of them instead of six adds to the variety and beauty of the patterns and maneuvers they fly.
For more info about the Snowbirds please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/showcasing/snowbirds.html
Note:
The Snowbirds were formed in 1971, taking over from previous teams like the Golden Centennaires, and have since become a symbol of national pride, showcasing the skill, professionalism, and teamwork of Canadian Forces personnel. Their history is deeply rooted in Canadian military aviation, with the squadron’s numerical designation (431) harking back to a World War II bomber squadron.
They fly the Canadair CT-114 Tutor, which, despite its age, has been part of their formation for decades. There’s been discussion and planning for replacing these aircraft due to obsolescence, with a project aimed at procuring new aircraft between 2026 and 2035.
The Snowbirds perform across Canada and sometimes internationally, showcasing at air shows and special events. Their schedule for 2024 included performances from May through October, covering various cities in Canada and a few in the U.S., like Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Reno, Nevada.
They were the first aerobatic team to use music in their air shows, adding a unique element to their performances. In 1990, they introduced red smoke to mark significant anniversaries. Their performances often include live commentary from pilots, enhancing the audience’s experience.
The Snowbirds often generate positive media coverage due to their spectacular displays and their role in community engagement and morale boosting, especially highlighted during times of national or global significance.
