Tributes
The Snowbirds’ pilots are highly trained professionals who have many years of flying experience with the Air Force. They are well-known for their skill, professionalism and teamwork.
However, there is risk associated with formation flying. Flying by its very nature has an inherent element of risk. Ten Snowbird team members have lost their lives in the performance of their duty. We remember them.
Every Snowbird performance is a tribute to these pilots and to all the men and women of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds who have dedicated themselves to excellence.
Captain Jennifer Casey
Public Affairs Officer
Killed during takeoff on May 17, 2020 in Kamloops, BC, at the age of 35. The flight was part of Operation INSPIRATION, a mission designed to inspire Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sergeant Charles Senécal
15 Wing Imagery Technician, 15 Wing CWO Assistant
Killed October 9, 2008, at 49 years of age during a dissimilar formation photo flight at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. Captain Bryan Mitchell, Snowbird #3, was also killed in this flight.
Captain Bryan Mitchell
Snowbird #3, Designate
Killed October 9, 2008 at 47 years of age during a dissimilar formation photo flight at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. Sgt Charles Senécal, 15 Wing imagery technician, was also killed in this flight.
Captain Shawn McCaughey
Snowbird #2, Inner Right Wing
Killed during a practice flight at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, U.S.A. May 18, 2007 at the age of 31.
Captain Miles Selby
Snowbird #8, Opposing Solo
Killed during a training mission in December 2004, in Mossbank, Saskatchewan, at the age of 31.
Captain Michael VandenBos
Snowbird #2, Inner Right Wing
Killed during a training mission in December 1998, just south of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, at the age of 29.
Captain Shane Antaya
Snowbird #2, Inner Right Wing
Killed during an airshow in 1989, at the CNE in Toronto, Ontario, at the age of 26.
Captain Wes Mackay
Snowbird #8, Lead Solo
Killed in a motor accident in 1988, after a performance in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, at the age of 28.
Captain Gordon de Jong
Snowbird #8, Lead Solo
Killed during an airshow in 1978, in Grande Prairie, Alberta, at the age of 32.
Captain Lloyd Waterer
Snowbird #8, Lead Solo
Killed during an airshow in 1972, in Trenton, Ontario, at the age of 24.
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