Cried at the end': Senator reflects on emotional final Snowbirds performance in Moose Jaw

Saskatchewan Sen. Denise Batters said she “cried at the end” after watching the Canadian Forces Snowbirds complete their final full air show with the CT-114 Tutor jets in Moose Jaw on Friday. Batters attended the team’s 55th anniversary celebrations, which included a private air show, a celebratory dinner and events highlighting the squadron’s history. The performance marked the end of an era as the Snowbirds prepare to retire their aging Tutor fleet. On May 19, 2026, federal Defence Minister David McGuinty announced the CT-114 would be replaced by the CT-157 Siskin II, with the fleet remaining based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. Batters, whose late husband Dave Batters previously flew with the team, described the farewell as “bittersweet,” while around 500 alumni and dignitaries attended.