EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016: Airshow Performers - Canadian Forces Snowbirds

Fred Harl and Carmelo Turdo

The headliner for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016 weekend airshow was the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, otherwise known as the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron based at CFB Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.  The crews and support personnel represent the three Canadian Forces elements (Army, Navy and Air Force).  They fly the Canadair CT-114 Tutor training jet in graceful sweeping formations of up to nine aircraft, and thrill the crowds with breathtaking opposing solo passes.  Midwest audiences were able to see the Snowbirds at Cape Girardeau, MO and St. Louis as well as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2016.  The Aero Experience is again proud to present some views of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds during their Sunday airshow.

Winter Maintenance Session With Airshow Pilot Patrick McAlee of ExtremeFlight

By Carmelo Turdo

Winter time has hit the Midwest and the Christmas season is upon us.  We normally think of this period as a kind of off-season for airshows, and it is for the travel and the performing aspects.  It is by no means a time to rest, though, as there is much work to be done to prepare for the 2017 airshows.  The Aero Experience team caught up with airshow pilot Patrick Mcalee of ExtremeFlight as he began his winter maintenance tasks at his plane's home base, Washington Regional Airport, southwest of St. Louis.  He's just getting started, checking the airframe and doing some minor engine work.  It looks like both plane and pilot will be in great condition for the upcoming 2017 airshow season!

Check out Patrick's website and learn more about this great Midwest Aviation ambassador.  The Aero Experience will cover more behind the scenes activities and of course the exciting airshow performances from the ExtremeFlight team.  Here are some views and a short video of our visit on Thursday.