Snowbirds announce tour continuation on anniversary of fatal crash in B.C.

MOOSE JAW, Sask. — The Snowbirds air show flight demonstration team is soon to be in the air again trying to bring hope to Canadians.

The Canadian Forces says the team based in Moose Jaw, Sask., plans to continue its tour to inspire people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Snowbirds were participating in Operation Inspiration when there was a fatal crash exactly one year ago.

Capt. Captain Jenn Casey, the team’s public affairs officer, died when she ejected from a jet she was in near Kamloops, B.C.

The pilot, Capt. Richard MacDougall, was seriously injured.

An investigation found a bird strike caused the plane’s engine to stall shortly after takeoff.

“We are delighted to continue pursuing Jenn’s vision of inspiration and connection,” Lt.-Col. Denis Bandet said in a news release Monday.

“We know it would put a smile on her face to see how many of you she touched and to see the outpouring of love coming from Canadians all over the country and around the world.”

The Snowbirds are first scheduled to perform in Michigan and Quebec in June.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 17, 2021.

The Canadian Press