Snowbirds to be grounded until early 2030s while new planes are acquired

[Dr Strangelove]

What exactly was announced
Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed the Snowbirds will be mothballed after the 2026 season.

The team will remain inactive until new CT‑157 Siskin II aircraft arrive, expected in the early 2030s.

No precise year is given — procurement negotiations are still underway.

The 2026 season will be the final year the Snowbirds fly the CT‑114 Tutor, which has been in service since the 1960s.
What replaces the Tutors
The replacement aircraft is the CT‑157 Siskin II, a Swiss‑made turboprop (Pilatus PC‑21).

These aircraft are already being delivered for pilot training; the Snowbirds’ additional aircraft will be added to that order.

The new fleet is expected to restore the nine‑plane formation once operational.