COVID-19 Snowbirds to fly to N.L.

The Canadian Forces’ Snowbirds will fly in Newfoundland, although the date and location has not yet been announced.

The nine-jet aeronautics troupe will conduct a cross-canada tour to salute the efforts of Canadians and lift spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the tour, dubbed Operation Inspiration, during his daily news conference on Wednesday.

“As we watch the Snowbirds fly over our homes, let’s remember that we are all in this together,” he said.

According to a statement from the Department of National Defence, the team’s signature nine-jet formation, with trailing white smoke, will fly over cities across the country, starting in Nova Scotia this weekend.

Anticipated locations, routes and times will be released on social media platforms each day. While the department is still assessing exacttly where flybys will take place, a spokesperson confirmed the eastern swing will include all four Atlantic provinces.

Flyovers will occur at an elevation no lower than 500 feet above all obstacles.

The department says the Snowbirds team will practice recommended hand-washing and wear recommended personal protective equipment while travelling, and will minimize interaction with people outside of the team.

“We encourage Canadians to observe the flyovers from the safety of their home and refrain from travelling to see the flyovers. Please maintain physical distancing practices that are keeping us all safe,” the statement reads.

“We encourage Canadians to observe the flyovers from the safety of their home and refrain from travelling to see the flyovers. Please maintain physical distancing practices that are keeping us all safe.” Department of National Defence