Aviation News – Canada has confirmed that the iconic Snowbirds aerobatic team will retire its long-serving CT-114 Tutor fleet after the 2026 airshow season, ending 55 years of service. The aircraft will be replaced by the new CT-157 Siskin II, marking a major modernization step for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
The decision, announced by the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND), follows the November 2024 order of 19 Pilatus PC-21 aircraft by SkyAlyne, the consortium selected under Canada’s Future Aircrew Training program. The aircraft, designated CT-157 Siskin II in Canadian service, will support both pilot training and the future operational needs of the Snowbirds. The first aircraft was officially delivered to the RCAF earlier this month, signaling the start of the transition.
The CT-157 Siskin II, based on the proven Pilatus PC-21 platform, is a modern turboprop trainer equipped with advanced avionics, improved performance, and lower operating costs compared with the aging Tutor fleet. Its introduction is expected to enhance safety, simplify logistics, and provide the Snowbirds with a more sustainable platform for precision demonstration flying in the decades ahead.
