The Snowbirds will no longer perform in Penticton after one of the group’s planes crashed on takeoff at Fort St. John earlier on Tuesday. In a statement, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds confirmed that the group will not be able to take part in their scheduled appearance at the Penticton Peach Festival. “The CT-114 aircraft of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron will not fly while a Royal Canadian Air Force flight safety team investigates to determine the cause of the incident,” the statement said. “The CF Snowbirds, while disappointed that they were unable to attend, wish both the Penticton Peach Festival and everyone in attendance the best.” On Tuesday, emergency crews at Fort St. John watched over a hay field near the city’s airport about 12 p.m. after one of the Snowbirds’ planes, a CT-114 Tutor, crashed after takeoff. Major Trevor Reid with the Snowbirds said the aircraft had a “hard landing” but the pilot – the sole occupant of the plane – was not injured. Although there will be no air show, the Snowbirds will still participate in the Penticton Peach Festival. The team has a static display at the airport at 10am. and will participate in the Jennifer Casey Memorial Peach Bin Races at 12 p.m. The Skyhawks Canada skydiving team will continue to play. More information on the events of the Peach Festival can be found here.
