Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
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Kept by Bryan McAllister — short guides, clear facts, and the Canadian angle when it matters.
Civic Brief • Canada Notes

Snowbirds (aerobatic team)

The Snowbirds are the Royal Canadian Air Force’s official aerobatic demonstration team, formally designated 431 Air Demonstration Squadron.

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

Based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan, they perform precision formation flying to showcase Canadian Armed Forces skill, professionalism, and teamwork.

What it is

The Snowbirds are a Royal Canadian Air Force unit, officially called 431 Air Demonstration Squadron. Formed in 1971, they fly nine Canadair CT-114 Tutor jets in formation and solo routines. Their base is 15 Wing Moose Jaw near Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

Why it matters

The team serves as a public ambassador and recruiting symbol for the Canadian Armed Forces. They demonstrate flying skill and teamwork at major events across Canada, including Canada Day and the Grey Cup, making them a recognizable national icon.

Key details

The Snowbirds are the first Canadian air demonstration team designated as a squadron. Their aircraft, the CT-114 Tutor, is a Canadian-built jet trainer. The team’s mission includes public relations and showcasing Canadian Forces professionalism.

In short

  • Official name: 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force.
  • Based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan; formed in 1971.
  • Fly Canadair CT-114 Tutor jets in precision formation.
  • Serve as public ambassadors and recruiting tools for the Canadian Armed Forces.
Canadian angle

The Snowbirds are closely associated with Canadian national identity and are a familiar presence at major Canadian events, including Canada Day flyovers and the Grey Cup.[5][8]

Quick questions

What are the Snowbirds?
They are the Royal Canadian Air Force’s official aerobatic demonstration team, known as 431 Air Demonstration Squadron.
What aircraft do they fly?
They fly the Canadair CT-114 Tutor, a Canadian-built jet trainer.
Where are they based?
They are based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw near Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowbirds_(aerobatic_team)
    Supports: Official name, branch, base, role, purpose, and squadron designation.
  2. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/showcasing/snowbirds.html
    Supports: Current role as CAF ambassadors and public-facing description.
  3. The Canadian Encyclopedia — https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/snowbirds
    Supports: History since 1971 and reputation as a leading aerobatic team.
  4. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/rcaf/migration/2015/45-facts-about-the-snowbirds-air-demonstration-team.html
    Supports: Formation in 1971 and association with major Canadian events.
  5. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/showcasing/snowbirds/team.html
    Supports: Team composition and membership from CAF and National Defence Public Service employees.
  6. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/showcasing/snowbirds/questions.html
    Supports: Aircraft type and performance-related facts.