AERO GATINEAU-OTTAWA STATEMENT REGARDING THE CANADIAN FORCES SNOWBIRDS

Gatineau-Ottawa — The announcement that The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will pause operations after the 2026 season is difficult news for airshow communities across North America. We recognize that this decision was not made lightly and respect the careful consideration behind it.

AERO Gatineau-Ottawa shares the disappointment felt by spectators and fans in the National Capital Region and across the continent, knowing this iconic team will be absent from the skies for an extended period.

“We understand the reasons for this difficult decision,” said John Bennett, Director General of AERO Gatineau-Ottawa, “and remain committed to our partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and to showcasing its evolving fleet and capabilities in the years ahead. We also remain dedicated to supporting the Canadian Forces’ objectives in recruiting and community engagement.”

For more than half a century, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds have inspired audiences nationwide. Their presence at hundreds of events each season has been a perennial symbol of the professionalism, skill, and dedication of the Canadian Forces.

Snowbirds fans can look forward to a full season of airshows and special events across Canada in 2026 as the team celebrates its 55th show season, including performances on all three days of this year’s AERO Gatineau-Ottawa show: 18, 19, and 20 September.

“AERO Gatineau-Ottawa is privileged to host one of the Snowbirds’ final public Canadian airshow performances before they pause operations,” Bennett said. “Though bittersweet, we will mark the occasion with a celebration befitting this iconic team.”

CONTACT:
John Bennett, Director General
613-720-5837
jbennett@aerogatineauottawa.ca