Cold Lake Air Show features one of Snowbirds' last performances with CT-114 Tutor aircraft

Petition launched urging government to prevent a multi-year hiatus for the Snowbirds during their transition to new aircraft.

COLD LAKE – When the Canadian Forces Snowbirds streak across the sky above 4 Wing this month, their performance will carry added significance as the team prepares to say goodbye to the aircraft it has flown for more than five decades. The Snowbirds will perform during the Cold Lake Air Show on July 18 and 19 as part of the final air show season for the CT-114 Tutor. The aircraft, which entered Royal Canadian Air Force service in 1963 and has been flown by the Snowbirds since 1971, will be retired following the 2026 season.

The federal government announced in May that the future Snowbirds team will fly the CT-157 Siskin II. The Canadian designation for the Pilatus PC-21. The new capability is expected to become operational in the early 2030s, potentially leaving the Snowbirds without a traditional flying season for several years.

Petition launched That gap prompted Moose Jaw resident Jana Kitts to launch House of Commons Petition e-7535, calling on the federal government to keep the Snowbirds visible and actively involved in public air demonstrations throughout the transition, with reasonable operational adjustments made to maintain safety. Kitts said she launched the petition after the announcement of the pause at 15 Wing Moose Jaw left her concerned that Canadians opposed to the decision were not making their voices heard. She said supporters are concerned the planned interruption could last longer than initially anticipated or become permanent.

“When waiting for procurement, production and introduction of a new aircraft it’s so easy for five years to turn to six years, and shortly thereafter you’re already at 10 years, a decade. A decade without the Snowbirds? That’s unimaginable in my mind.”

Kitts also fears a lengthy pause could weaken the specialized knowledge built within 431 Air Demonstration Squadron. “Another concern I’m hearing from the community is that people are worried about the loss of that unique aviation knowledge, expertise, skills, and operational experience that has been developed and passed on through generations of pilots, technicians, and support personnel, “Kitt explained. She adds, “It took decades to build that level of experience and capability, it’s not something you can simply flip back on like a switch.”

According to the Government of Canada the squadron includes pilots, aviation and avionics technicians, aircraft-structure technicians, supply personnel, mobile-support operators, clerks and officers. Its members represent the Army, Navy, and Air Force, while public-service employees also contribute to the team. Kitts said she hopes the federal government will fully examine proposals from the aviation community and groups such as the Snowbirds Alumni Association before grounding the team during the transition.

Kitts said the petition received a positive response, surpassing the 500-signature threshold required for certification and reaching more than 600 signatures by July 8, nine days after it opened. The Snowbirds are not commenting directly on the petition. Snowbirds focus on 2026 show “Our focus is on the 2026 show season and delivering a memorable final season for the CT-114 Tutor,” said Capt. Phil Rochon, the Snowbirds public affairs officer.

For Cold Lake, the team’s upcoming performance also reflects longstanding connections between two of Canada’s major Royal Canadian Air Force communities. “The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are proud to be performing at this year’s Cold Lake Air Show. We feel a strong kinship with 4 Wing Cold Lake with many of our members having served in Cold Lake prior to joining the team and many former team members having continued their careers there.

We are excited to be back and look forward to performing for all the fans,” says Rochon. The two-day air show will feature aerial performances, military and static aircraft displays, family activities and opportunities for visitors to learn more about life at 4 Wing. Gates will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with aerial demonstrations beginning at noon.

Rochon said the final Tutor season is intended to recognize the people who have sustained the team while looking toward its future. “Our focus is on delivering a safe, professional season that reflects the very best of the Canadian Armed Forces, while honouring 55 years of excellence and preparing for what comes next,” Rochon adds. "This is a moment of transition but also of opportunity to recognize our people, to connect with Canadians, and to build toward a modern future for the Snowbirds.

We remain proud to represent Canada, and we are committed to ensuring that this legacy continues to inspire Canadians for generations to come.” For Rochon, the final tutor performances remain an opportunity to celebrate the team’s enduring connection with Canadians. “This season is focused on celebrating the people and the legacy of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, who since 1971 have become an enduring symbol of Canadian aviation excellence,” he adds.

“We are excited and thrilled to take part in the 2026 Cold Lake Air Show and hope to see everyone out there to see us and our fellow performers,” Rochon says.