Salinas/ Monterey Chamber Mixer Thursday, September 22nd. Details!!
sponsored by
Canadian Forces Snowbirds!
The Snowbirds Demonstration Team(431 Squadron) is a Canadian icon comprised of serving members of the Canadian Forces. Their pilots and technicians work as a team to bring thrilling performances to the North American public. Serving as Canadian ambassadors, the Snowbirds demonstrate the high level of professionalism, teamwork, excellence, discipline and dedication inherent in the women and men of the Air Force and the Canadian Forces.
Canadian Military Aerobatic Team History
Military formation aerobatic teams have played a distinguished part in Canadian military aviation history. Since the inception of the "Siskins" in the 1930's there have been many teams, all of whom have exemplified the skill and proficiency common to Canada's Air Force pilots and ground crew. The Golden Hawks and Golden Centennaires are still remembered by many people who enjoyed their exciting aerobatic displays. These teams received world-wide recognition, and their members were proud ambassadors of the men and women of the Canadian military. The Snowbirds, while performing before millions of spectators across North America, are honoured to carry on the fine traditions established by their forerunners.
One problem has been common to Canada's aerobatic teams - the continuing struggle for existence. Teams which had been formed as a result of the perseverance and initiative of dedicated individuals slowly matured, but were all too soon disbanded; the prime reason for disbandment was normally that of expense. The year 1978 was a milestone in the history of Canada's formation teams.
The Snowbirds, who first performed in July of 1971, operated on a year to year basis for seven years, before being finally established as a permanent squadron on 1 April, 1978. The Canadian Forces Air Demonstration Team was then renamed 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron. This was not an achievement which came easily; it resulted from the cumulative efforts of numerous individuals over the previous ten years. It was also a result of the support given to the team by members of the Canadian Forces and the public sector throughout Canada - support which is readily apparent while the Snowbirds travel across the country during the airshow season.
The Snowbirds are a Canadian national icon, a symbol of pride and unity for all Canadians.
The Snowbirds have flown the CT-114 Tutor jet since 1971. The aircraft was designed and built in Canada and was used by the Canadian Forces as its basic pilot training aircraft until 2000. The jets are painted in a distinctive red and white paint scheme symbolic of Canada's national flag. As members of the nation's military, the Snowbirds are proud to fly Canada's colours across North America.
The Snowbirds are very confident flying the Tutor. It is safe and performs extremely well as a demonstration aircraft.
