Press Release – Hon. Pierre Poilievre, P.C., M.P. (Battle River—Crowfoot)
One of the great things about being Member of Parliament for Battle River–Crowfoot is having the honour to represent the men and women of CFB Wainwright.
These incredible soldiers and aviators are proud to stand on guard for our country, and do so with diligence and professionalism every single day showcasing the incredible talent and patriotism of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
And here in Battle River–Crowfoot, we have enjoyed both shows and flyovers that inspired and supported local flying clubs and communities!
Unfortunately, the Carney Liberals once again show that their rhetoric doesn’t match their actions.
Days after Conservatives first raised the issue, the Liberals confirmed that the 2026 Snowbird season will be their last.
All future shows will be cancelled until sometime in the 2030s, while they procure the replacement for their iconic jets–this replacement is currently proposed to be a propeller plane.
To note, these are the same Liberals that previously rejected a replacement for the Snowbirds’ fleet, and gave $30 million to modernize the very planes they now intend to ground.
This is another blunder from the government that has still not made up its mind on F-35 jets, and has outsourced pilot training which means we can’t even train Canada’s pilots here at home.
Clearly, the Liberals are a long way from military efficiency.
Now, the Snowbirds face a cancellation that could take a decade to fix and risks losing the knowledge and experience of a generation of skilled pilots.
At the end of the day, this is about more than aerobatics. Since 1971, the Snowbirds have been an iconic national symbol that proudly represented Canada abroad and inspired generations of our young people to serve their country in the CAF.
The Snowbirds’ discipline, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence have been a symbol of our military’s readiness and our pride in those who serve.
Unfortunately, the Liberals’ decision to ground the Snowbirds until the next decade is a symbol too–a symbol of the Liberals disregard for Canadian heritage and the men and women who serve our great nation.
Today, Canada needs a military that is strong and capable. We need young people who are inspired to join it. And we don’t need more demoralizing signs of decline.
We need the Snowbirds more than ever, and that’s why Conservatives will fight to keep them flying.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, or if you require assistance regarding a Federal Government program, you are encouraged to send an email to pierre.poilievre@parl.gc.ca or call 1-800-665-4358.
