Canadian Forces Snowbirds

USPA NEWS - The Canadian Forces Snowbirds 431 Squadron is the military's air demonstration team whose mandate is to demonstrate their skill, training, and team spirit. The Squadron is based in Saskatchewan at 15 Wing CFB Moose Jaw. The Snowbirds consist of a fleet of the Tudor CT-114 aircraft. This year marks the Snowbirds 50th season of thrilling performances.

In a statement on Wednesday April 28th, Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau announced that the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will be crossing the country to salute Canadians that are doing their part to fight the spread of COVID-19. The mission, Operation Inspiration, will begin in Nova Scotia this coming weekend and make its way west crossing Canada next week.

For safety reasons during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Snowbirds temporarily paused their operations on March 20, 2020. This allowed team members to remain self-isolating at home and practicing social distancing in order to help protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus.

Lieutenant-Colonel Mike French, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds said, "We´ve been asked to do what we do best...inspire Canadians. Through Operation INSPIRATION, we not only want to salute the front-line health-care workers, first responders, and essential workers, but also all Canadians doing their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. We want Canadians to know we´re in this with you."

Lieutenant-General Al Meinzinger, Commander Royal Canadian Air Force said, "Every year, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds travel the country putting smiles on the faces of Canadians. While Canadians may not be able to gather at air shows, for now, we´re honored to bring the Snowbirds team to Canadians and to pay special tribute to them.“

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, “As we watch the Snowbirds fly over our homes, let´s remember we are all in this together." Both the Prime Minister and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds team are urging Canadians to not travel to watch the flybys, but rather observe from the safety of their own homes. Nova Scotia, Premier Stephen McNeil continues to say in his daily COVID-19 press conference that practicing social distancing is the only way to prevent the spread of the virus and stands by what has become his most remembered quote, "Stay The Blazes Home!"