The Snowbirds use the Comox base as a training ground every spring, which means Kye Bay visitors and residents enjoy an airshow every day that weather permits! That can be pretty good entertainment, if a little noisy.
“The Canadian Forces (CF) Snowbirds, 431 Air Demonstration Squadron are a Canadian icon comprised of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and National Defence Public Service employees.
A brief squadron history, motto and battle honours can be found on the Department of National Defence’s Directorate of History and Heritage webpage. 431 Squadron has flown the following aircraft:
- Vickers Wellington
- Handley-Page Halifax
- Avro Lancaster
- Canadair (North American) F-86 Sabre
- CT-114 Tutor
Pilots, technicians (aviation, avionics, aircraft structure, supply), mobile support operators, resource management support clerks, an engineering officer, a logistics officer and a public affairs officer representing all three elements (Army, Navy and Air Force), work as a team to bring thrilling performances to the Canadian public.” (CF SNowbirds website.)
For more information about the Snowbirds vist their site at rcaf.forces.gc.ca
The CT-114 Tutor is primarily flown by the Canadian Forces Snowbirds demonstration team at public events throughout North America.
The Tutor was the primary jet trainer for the Royal Canadian Air Force until 2000. The Tutors flown by the Snowbirds are slightly modified for show features and enhanced performance during low-level aerobatic flying.
| Length | 9.75 m |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 11.12 m |
| Height | 2.84 m |
| Empty weight | 2,409 kg |
| Maximum standard thrust | 1,225 kg |
| Maximum speed | 763 km/h |
| Range | 648 km |
| Locations |
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| This aircraft is used for | Air demonstration |
