Snowbirds cancel shows for more training

The Canadian military’s Snowbirds precision-flying team has cancelled all appearances for the rest of the month and through early June over concerns some of its pilots need more practice.

There have been recent incidents where the team’s pilots have edged out of their designated areas, a situation that could cause safety issues when aircraft are flying in such tight formations. Maj. Patrick Gobeil, the Snowbirds team leader, made the call to cancel the team’s next six appearances and use that time for further training.

“We have decided to undertake additional practice and training from our home base at 15 Wing Moose Jaw before returning to our 2017 scheduled air performance season,” said a message on the Snowbirds’ Facebook page. “While we have had several well-executed shows and practices early in the season, our Team Lead has determined that additional training is required.”

Shows have been cancelled in Rochester, N.Y., Rhode Island, Fort Erie, Ont., Windsor, Ont., Whiteman, Miss., and Duluth, Minn.

The team has had a reduced training schedule because of poor weather. No timeline has been offered for how long it will be off the airshow

PILOTS ARE GOING OUTSIDE THEIR FLYING BOX.

circuit.

The team thanked its fans and air-show organizers for their understanding.

Snowbirds spokesperson Navy Lt. Michèle Tremblay likened the team to Olympic synchronized swimmers; because of the reduced training schedule, the all-important synchronized link between team members started to suffer.

“They are seeing that certain pilots are going outside their flying box, if you will,” Tremblay said. “The team lead has not waited until something catastrophic happens. He has reacted now. He said, full stop, we are going to go back home, we are going to practice and regain that confidence that we need to do this very unique and very special aerobatic demonstration.”

As a result of the Snowbirds’ cancellation, the Rochester International Air Show, which was to start Wednesday, has cancelled the entire event.

The Windsor air show is also cancelled because of the Snowbirds’ withdrawal.

The team’s announced hiatus takes the Snowbirds up to June 4. There are six shows scheduled after that before the Snowbirds appear over Parliament Hill on July 1.

Tremblay said it’s too early to say when the team will return.

“We don’t take this decision lightly, but you don’t put lives at risk,” she said.

SEAN KILPATRICK / THE CANADIAN PRESS The Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the Patrouille de France air demonstration team conducted a joint flyby over Parliament Hill in Ottawa May 2. The Snowbirds are set to perform over Parliament Hill again on Canada Day, but for now are cancelling shows...