The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is presently undertaking a period of reconstitution to ensure long-term viability and readiness to meet Government of Canada priorities. To this end, the RCAF will reduce the number of CF-18 performances at Canadian air shows for the 2023 season to ten shows. The CF-18 demonstrations will consist of a mix of two separate types of shows: a tactical fighter support demonstration highlighting the CF-18’s ability to provide support to soldiers on combat operations and an aerobatic demonstration showcasing the CF-18’s wide range of capabilities. Both demonstrations will be flown with aircraft in an operational grey paint scheme.
While the CF-18 fleet continues to perform well for the RCAF, the decision to have a limited CF-18 demonstration season was taken in order to prioritize our personnel and aircraft resources during a busy period of high operational tempo for the RCAF fighter community supporting NORAD operations and exercises, combined with ongoing CF-18 upgrades and a focus on training new personnel for future operations.
A staple on the Canadian air show scene since 1983, CF-18 demonstrations will continue to showcase the high level of skill, professionalism and teamwork inherent in the members of the RCAF, inspiring future aviators and highlighting the capabilities of Canada’s frontline fighter. In conjunction with CF-18 performances, the RCAF will also be prioritizing in-person engagements with Canadians as part of on-going recruiting efforts, showcasing the many exciting trades and roles within Canada’s Air Force.
