Air-to-air, Pt.2 - The Snowbirds

1 September 2006

The Canadair CT-114 Tutor replaced the Harvard in Royal Canadian Air Force service beginning in 1963.  The Tutor continued mainly in the training role with the Canadian Forces until 2000 and currently equips only 431 Air Demonstration Squadron - The 'Snowbirds'.

   With speed brakes extended, Snowbird #8 Captain Andy Mackay flies on the far right of the formation as the team approaches for a photo session over Lake Ontario.

   A better view of Capt. Mackay as he holds station in CT-114 Tutor 114104.  A veteran Snowbird, he flew originally as Snowbird #6 in the Outer Right Wing position of the main formation before becoming Lead Solo.

   Captain Paul Couillard is Snowbird #2 and flies the Inner Right Wing position.

   Another study of Tutor 114104 and Capt. Mackay, this time with downtown Toronto serving as the background.

   Led by Major Ian McLean, the Snowbirds slide away as the photo session ends - the nine aircraft formation is impressive from any angle.

The Photo Platform

   The Snowbirds were photographed from B-25J N1042B seen during a flypast at the Canadian International Air Show.  Thanks to Jim Terry and the crew of Pacific Prowler.

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