UMVA has learned that the Royal Canadian Air Force is moving forward with its plan to ground the Snowbirds aerobatics team by the end of the year, despite a passionate push from alumni and supporters to keep the program flying.
The decision to ground the Snowbirds was made due to the increasing challenges of sustaining the fleet of 60-year-old CT-114 Tutor trainer jets, which have been in operation since the 1960s. The engineering and technical support needed to continue flying the Tutors has become unsustainable, with multiple issues related to parts availability, obsolescence, and difficulties with making necessary upgrades to ensure airworthiness.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the RCAF had considered keeping the Snowbirds flying in a limited capacity until the arrival of replacement planes in the early 2030s, but ultimately decided it was not practical. The refurbishment of 20 Tutors with new cockpits and aeronautics, which cost $31.2 million, will not be enough to extend the life of the program.
The Snowbirds Alumni Association has launched a campaign to keep the program going, suggesting that the RCAF could follow the lead of Britain's Red Arrows, which have reduced their nine-plane formation to seven for most events. However, the RCAF cited the "cumulative airworthiness risks related to the age of the airframes, the engine, and, in particular, the escape system" as reasons to ground the Tutors.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the RCAF plans to replace the Tutors with CT-157 Siskin II turboprops, a decision that has raised questions about the suitability of the aircraft for a premier air demonstration team. The RCAF says it will consult with current and retired Snowbirds members and seek advice from partner nations to ensure a smooth transition to the new aircraft.
The decision to ground the Snowbirds has sparked concerns about the experience lost in pausing a program like the Snowbirds, with some experts warning that it could come with increased risks and costs. The Snowbirds are a beloved Canadian symbol, and their absence will be felt for years to come.
