Snowbirds aerobatic team grounded until early 2030s while new planes purchased

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The Tutor planes were introduced in the 1960s.

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Snowbirds aerobatic team grounded until early 2030s while new planes purchased

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The Snowbirds, formed in 1971, have performed at thousands of air shows and will continue to be based in Moose Jaw.

“This will ensure that Canada continues its strong tradition of air demonstration capability with a modern fleet that will ultimately rebuild to the team’s distinctive nine-plane formation,” the government said in a statement.

There has been speculation about the future of the squadron.

Federal Opposition Conservative Fraser Tolmie raised the issue earlier this month.

He told question period that air shows across North America are “quietly being told” they can’t book the Snowbirds for events in 2027 and that this summer will be their final season.

McGuinty had said that the team’s fleet is approaching the end of its life, but the Snowbirds would continue air demonstrations as long as the planes remain safe.

Tolmie, who represents Moose Jaw and is a former mayor of the city, has said it’s time to get the ball rolling on a replacement fleet contract and “save our Snowbirds.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 19, 2026.