Beyond the experience of seeing multiple planes and having a few days of fun with friends, families, and like-minded strangers, there’s one reason lots of folks come to the Abbotsford International Airshow: the RCAF Snowbirds! Because these planes and performers draw so many people, we wanted to highlight where else this squadron can demonstrate its talents. 
Take a look at the Snowbirds schedule for 2024 so that you can see them whenever you can!

Abbotsford International Airshow

Not only does the Abbotsford International Airshow attract lots of visitors each year, but 2024 happens to be RCAF’s 100th anniversary year. So, the event will be extra unique!

The Abbotsford International Airshow takes place on August 9th, 10th, and 11th and features activities for all ages to enjoy. So come outside and soak in the weather as you experience the wonder that this airshow provides — including, of course, the Snowbirds airshow.

Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds 2024 Schedule 

June

• 1-2 | St. Hubert, Quebec
• 9 | Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix
• 15-16 | Borden, Ontario
• 19 | North Bay, Ontario
• 22-23 | Bagotville, Quebec
• 29-30 | Trenton (Quinte), Ontario

July

• 1 | Canada Day in Ottawa, Ontario
• 12 | Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
• 20-21 | Cold Lake, Alberta
• 26-28 | Oshkosh, Wisconsin
• 31 | Duluth, Minnesota

August

• 3-4 | Portage La Prairie, Manitoba
• 9-11 | Abbotsford, British Columbia
• 24-25 | Greenwood, Nova Scotia
• 31 | Toronto, Ontario
  

September

• 1-2 | Toronto, Ontario
• 7-8 | Gatineau, Quebec
• 13-15 | London, Ontario
• 21 | Sault Ste Marie, Ontario
  

October

• 5-6 | Reno, Nevada
• 12-13 | El Paso, Texas
  

FAQ About the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds 2024 Airshow

431 Squadron has a rich history with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Before becoming the “Snowbirds,” the Squadron served as both a Bomber and Fighter squadron flying aircraft, including the Handley-Page Halifax, Avro Lancaster, and Canadair F-86 Sabre. Now designated as the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, the pilots, maintenance, and support personnel of the Snowbirds serve as ambassadors for the Canadian Armed Forces, demonstrating the skills, professionalism, teamwork, discipline, and dedication inherent in the men and women of the CAF.

Here are the answers to some other common questions about the team.

When will the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds perform during the 2024 airshow?

The Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds’ schedule for 2024 includes performances on the first two days of the airshow. You can expect to see the team perform on Friday 9th at 6:00 pm and Saturday 10th at 2:00 pm.

How many Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds are there?

The demonstration squad has around 80 members, 24 of which travel during the airshow season.

How does someone become a member of the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds team?

To join the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds, a person must have served in the Royal Canadian Forces and have years of experience. Many apply to join this flight team, but the final ones are selected based on experience and skill after trying out.

How did the name Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds come about? 

In June 1971, a contest was held to name the team. The winner was Doug Farmer, a Grade 6 student. As a result, Farmer joined the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds in 2000 at an airshow in our very location: Abbotsford.

How fast can the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds fly? 

With smoke tanks in tow, the maximum aircraft speed is 412 knots. During a performance, they will fly at speeds ranging from 100 knots to 320 knots.

How do the planes release white smoke?

Each jet has two fuel tanks underneath, filled with diesel fuel. The pilot can squeeze a trigger to release the diesel fuel into the exhaust. Once this happens, the diesel fuel vaporizes instantly, creating a white smoke trail. Although some may be concerned, the smoke is considered harmless and goes away before it reaches the ground.

Hopefully, that gives you more reason to see the Royal Canadian Forces Snowbirds in Abbotsford and beyond. Save the date!