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2mo ago

Records Show RCAF Rejected Interim Snowbirds Fleet, Chose to Extend Tutors to 2030

Government records reveal the air force chose upgrades over an interim fleet.

Roy Allen, who celebrated his 100th birthday in April, is expected to be the first centenarian to walk the 5K at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend.
The Snowbirds aerobatic team flies CF-114 Tutors, which were introduced to Royal Canadian Air Force service in the 1960s.
RCAF leadership decided against a proposal to buy an interim replacement aircraft for the Snowbirds. Photo by Canadian Forces
RCAF leadership decided against a proposal to buy an interim replacement aircraft for the Snowbirds.

Overview

  • The RCAF, in a 2019 briefing obtained through access-to-information, dismissed a rapid purchase or lease for the Snowbirds and chose to modernize CT-114 Tutors to keep them flying to about 2030.
  • Analyses by aerospace firms L3 and Magellan found the Tutor airframe, landing gear, and engines could remain viable through 2030 after upgrades, according to the same records.
  • The briefing also weighed flying fewer Tutors or switching the team to another RCAF aircraft, but leaders discounted those options without explaining why.
  • Speculation has grown after air show organizers reported no bookings beyond the 2026 season, and Conservative MP Fraser Tolmie told CTV he has heard the team could be paused for five years, which has not been confirmed.
  • Defence Minister David McGuinty says Canadians will be able to enjoy the Snowbird formation for generations to come and plans to outline the team’s future at CFB Moose Jaw.