A problem with a tool that sets the timing for parachute deployment in the ejection system in the CT-114 Tutor aircraft used by Snowbirds has forced the cancellation of several shows by the team. The aircraft were grounded last week and shows in Ontario and the Maritimes were cancelled. The RCAF hasn’t described the exact nature of the problem but issues with the ejection system have plagued the team in recent years. The RCAF says it’s working on the problem with a civilian contractor and is hopeful of a fix in time to perform the traditional flypast of Canada Day festivities on Parliament Hill.
“We have full confidence that this issue will be resolved in a safe manner, working with a third-party aviation contractor and our own technical and maintenance experts,” said Maj.-Gen. Eric Kenny, Commander 1 Canadian Air Division. It’s the latest setback for the team this season. It got off to a late start thanks to bad weather on the Prairies affecting training and several early shows were cancelled.