Swift Current Mayor Al Bridal is voicing concern over the future of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds demonstration team following discussions about a possible multi-year hiatus for the squadron.

Bridal said he raised the issue during a recent meeting in Regina with federal cabinet minister Eleanor Olszewski, who oversees emergency preparedness and prairies economic development.

Snowbirds seen as Canadian symbol

Bridal said he told the minister the Snowbirds represent an important part of Canadian identity, particularly in Saskatchewan where the team is based out of Moose Jaw.

“I’m always so proud of the Snowbirds,” Bridal said. “They’re a Canadian icon.”

The Royal Canadian Air Force demonstration team is expected to continue flying through the current season before operations are potentially paused while replacement aircraft are introduced later this decade.

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Concerns over proposed hiatus

Bridal said he was disappointed by the possibility of the team being sidelined for several years between aircraft transitions.

He said new aircraft are expected sometime around 2030, though timelines could extend into 2031 or 2032.

Bridal said he asked Olszewski to bring the concerns back to cabinet in Ottawa.

“She said she’d definitely take that back to cabinet and talk about that,” Bridal said.

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan impact highlighted

While Bridal noted the issue does not directly affect Swift Current, he said the Snowbirds remain closely tied to Saskatchewan through their operations in Moose Jaw.

He said the demonstration squadron carries national significance while also contributing to provincial pride.

Bridal attended the Regina meeting as part of a Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce event featuring discussions with federal representatives on national priorities and western Canadian issues.