Canada is preparing to retire a long-standing symbol of its air force, while laying the groundwork for what comes next.
Credit: RCAF
Defence Minister David J. McGuinty announced plans to acquire a new aircraft for the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, marking a transition away from the aging Canadair CT-114 Tutor fleet. The announcement was made at 15 Wing Moose Jaw alongside Lieutenant-General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, who leads the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The Tutor aircraft has been part of the RCAF since 1963 and has served as the Snowbirds’ signature plane since 1971. After more than five decades of aerobatic displays, 2026 will be its final season.
In its place, the Department of National Defence plans to procure the CT-157 Siskin II, also known as the Pilatus PC-21. The new aircraft will take on a dual role, supporting both pilot training and air demonstration performances. Officials say the goal is to rebuild the Snowbirds’ familiar nine-plane formation using a more modern fleet, with operations expected to begin in the early 2030s at Moose Jaw.
The transition will take time. During the onboarding period, the RCAF says it will continue participating in air shows and public events across the country using existing aircraft and personnel. These appearances are seen as a way to maintain public engagement and highlight the air force’s broader work.
Credit: Royal Canadian Air Force
The Snowbirds, formally known as 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, have a long history. Over 55 years, they have performed more than 2,700 shows for over 140 million spectators across North America, travelling from Inuvik to Mexico and from British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador.
The team’s name dates back to 1971, when it was chosen through a “Name the Team” contest at a local elementary school near their Moose Jaw base. Their crest reflects those roots, featuring four stylized “speed birds” arranged in formation to resemble an ear of wheat, a nod to Saskatchewan. The same emblem appears on the underside of each aircraft.
Canadian Forces Snowbirds 2026 Schedule in Canada