For many Moose Jaw residents, the Snowbirds are Canada’s military aerobatic team and part of the city’s identity. That connection has contributed to support for the “No Pause. Keep the Snowbirds Flying” campaign amid discussion of a possible multi-year pause in the team’s operations.

The campaign is not a fundraiser in itself but is a grassroots advocacy effort encouraging Canadians to contact Members of Parliament, sign letters and petitions, and raise awareness about the Snowbirds’ transition from the CT-114 Tutor aircraft to a replacement fleet.

Interest in the campaign increased after the federal government announced the Snowbirds will complete the 2026 air show season before entering a transition period while new aircraft are acquired and crews are trained. While the modernization of the fleet is supported by various stakeholders, some have raised concerns about the possibility of an extended gap in operations.

In Moose Jaw, where the Snowbirds have been based at 15 Wing for more than 50 years, the team is associated with local aviation activity and tourism. Their performances and training flights attract visitors to the city and contribute to business activity in sectors such as hospitality and retail. The team is also connected to recruitment and public awareness efforts related to aviation and military service.

Moose Jaw City Council has reaffirmed its support for the Snowbirds and has called on the federal government to provide clearer timelines for the transition. Council has also requested that options be considered to reduce or eliminate any gap between the retirement of the Tutor aircraft and the introduction of replacements.

Campaign organizers state that the initiative is intended as an appeal for public engagement rather than a protest. They indicate the objective is to encourage decision-makers to consider measures that would allow the Snowbirds to continue operations with limited interruption.

The issue has been discussed locally in terms of its connection to community identity, economic activity, and the city’s association with the Snowbirds as a long-standing military unit based in Moose Jaw.

Support for the campaign continues to develop among some residents and community groups in the city and facilitated by “No Pause. Keep the Snowbirds Flying” campaign committee.  Moose Jaw Express office located at 468 High Street in Moose Jaw has petition postcard available to sign that will be mailed from the office.

“No Pause. Keep the Snowbirds Flying” t-shirts are available for purchase for children sizes xsml to large and adults sizes small to 2XL at the Moose Jaw Express office.  If larger sizes are required they can be ordered.  The cost for all t-shirts sizes is $20 each payable in cash when purchased.  T-shirts only can also be purchased at Panda Tire located at 888 Main Street N Moose Jaw.

There are also yard signs available to purchase to Save the Snowbirds at a cost $20 each.

All sales of the merchandise are used to fund the committee in the “Save the Snowbirds” campaign.

Your support means a lot to this cause and the Moose Jaw community.

By Joan Ritchie

Moose Jaw Express