The Snowbirds fly the CT-114 Tutor, a trainer jet built by Canadair in the 1960s, used for pilot training until 2000. A robust and maneuverable aircraft, the CT-114 Tutor jet is ideally suited to formation and aerobatic flying. With its relatively slow speed (maximum speed 412 knots), coupled with its maneuverability, the Tutor jet allows the Snowbirds to keep the formation flying directly in front of the spectators. Similarly, with regards to maintenance, the Tutor is a robust, well-built jet that is relatively easy to maintain, allowing the technicians to ensure that all jets are ready to fly an average of two missions daily.The 7,170-pound Tutor jet is only slightly modified with a smoke generating system, a distinct red and white paint scheme and a highly tuned engine. The smoke generating system provides beautiful smoke trails, but, more importantly, allows the pilots to better identify the jets and their flight direction. The Snowbirds’ professionalism and skill, coupled with the Tutor’s maneuverability and reliability, make for a beautiful and exciting show.
