Snowbirds' CT-114 jets to fly last flight at Nov. 15 Grey Cup in Calgary
The Canadian Forces aerobatic team has flown the Tutor jets since 1971 and will retire them after the 2026 season, ahead of a new aircraft in the early 2030s.
Why it matters
Calgary will host a historic milestone as the Snowbirds perform their final flight in the CT-114 jets before the aircraft's retirement.
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will make their farewell appearance in their CT-114 Tutor jets at the 2026 Grey Cup, set for Nov. 15 in Calgary. The team will retire the aircraft following the 2026 season, with a transition to new planes expected in the early 2030s.
The Snowbirds have flown the Tutor jets in aerial demonstrations since 1971 and have previously performed at three Grey Cups: the 101st, 106th and 109th editions. This year's game marks the 113th Grey Cup and coincides with the Snowbirds' 55th anniversary.
Major-General Denis O'Reilly, deputy commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, said the milestone honours generations of pilots, technicians, support staff and families who have supported the team, while noting the RCAF looks ahead to the next aircraft that will carry the demonstration team's tradition forward.
CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston said the league is honoured to host the jets' final flight at the championship game, calling it a tribute to a partnership built on shared history and pride in Canada.
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