COMOX — The Canadian Forces Snowbirds have returned to their “second home” in the Comox Valley.
They arrived at CFB Comox over the weekend to start their annual spring training, with their first show scheduled in June in Montreal, with a show tentatively scheduled for Nanaimo in August.
Public affairs officer Cpt. Philip Rochon said they’re always thrilled to return to Vancouver Island from their home base in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
“A couple of our pilots have been posted there. Myself, I was posted there previously, so it’s really a homecoming for us, we’re super excited. We always receive a warm welcome in the Comox Valley. We can’t wait to get out the door and finish up our training for the season and get on the road for the 25-show season.”
The Snowbirds’ schedule will see them practicing at least twice a day, making a pass in the morning and another in the afternoon, with another practice run in the evening if needed, from May 3 until May 24.
Rochon said it’s a chance for them to hone their skills ahead of their busy season, putting together the final touches of their dynamic air show.
He said new team members, including pilots and technicians, join the Snowbirds every year and they’ll be sharing their stories on their social media pages during training.
“Our time in Comox is really our time to gel as a team and as a family. So really, it’s always fun to see the new team members come on board, and we’re super excited to introduce them to all of our fans in Comox and all of our fans as we prepare for this season.”
While there’s no Comox Valley Air Show scheduled for this year, locals can still take in the Snowbirds at Air Force Beach in Comox while they practice.
Parking passes can be purchased at the Air Force Beach campground until the May long weekend.
They can also be seen from the Heritage Air Park down Military Row from the Comox Air Force Museum.
— with files from Jon De Roo, 97.3 The Eagle
Local news. Delivered. Free. Subscribe to our daily news wrap and get our top local stories delivered to your email inbox every evening.
info@nanaimonewsnow.com
Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook
