431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron

News Release

Snowbirds Receive National Introduction in House of Commons

NR 003-06 - June 14, 2006

OTTAWA - The Canadian Forces Snowbirds Air Demonstration Team will be honoured with an introduction in the House of Commons on June 15.

“I am very proud of the Snowbirds and value their important role as ambassadors for the men and women in Canada’s military who are making a difference around the world,” said the Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff Lieutenant-General Steve Lucas. “The Snowbirds demonstrate the professionalism, dedication and teamwork inherent in all members of the Canadian Forces.”

“It is a tremendous honour for the team to be introduced in the House of Commons,” said Major Ian McLean, Snowbird 1 and Commanding Officer. “As Snowbirds, we have the privilege of representing the Canadian Forces, meeting Canadians from coast to coast, and flying Canada’s colours across North America.”

The Snowbirds will perform their breath-taking show at Air Show Ottawa in Carp, Ontario on June 17 and 18, inspiring Canadians of all ages.

Weather and fuel permitting, the public can expect an early glimpse of the team in the Ottawa skies as they will be flying in formation over the Peace Tower at 13:55 this afternoon while transiting from Quebec City to Ottawa.

As ambassadors for the Canadian Forces and Canada, the Snowbirds travel across North America, performing in 64 air shows in 41 locations in 2006.

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I was able to catch their fly by and roundabout of downtown Ottawa. Amazing. I love the Snowbirds. I'v e seen them fly about 5 times and met some of the team members and their plane at a meet and greet a few years back when they were in Toronto. Everytime, their flying demonstrations sends chills down my spine. In 2003 and 2005, I was able to catch the Toronto International Air Show while working for Ontario Place. I just love how everyone pauses and stops what they're doing (for the most part) and just be in awe of what the Snowbirds do.

Here are a few pictures I took of the little fly over in Ottawa: