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Moose Jaw’s reputation as Canada’s premier military aviation city was on full display July 12, when the Snowbirds’ Hometown Event drew over 1,600 spectators to the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport for a sold-out show — and raised $18,000 toward future airport improvements.
The event was hosted by the Moose Jaw Flying Club and the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport Authority, in collaboration with 15 Wing Moose Jaw, where the Snowbirds are based. Organizers say tickets — priced by the vehicle — sold out with 500 vehicle passes issued, and that around 60 per cent of attendees came from outside the city, including visitors from Alberta, Manitoba, Montana, and as far away as Texas.
The money raised will go toward the development of a much-needed crosswind runway at the nonprofit municipal airport — a key infrastructure project that will support both military and civilian aviation operations.
“What made this event so successful was the way the whole community stepped up to support it,” said Roger Blager, president of the Moose Jaw Flying Club.
“There was outstanding collaboration between local organizations, the City, 15 Wing, our sponsors, volunteers, and so many others. The funds raised will go toward the needed infrastructure improvements at the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport, which not only supports aviation and job growth in the aerospace sector but contributes to long-term economic impact for the city."
The show featured a full aerial performance by the Snowbirds, along with displays by several other aircraft, including the Harvard II, used at 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (2CFFTS), also based at 15 Wing. Visitors also saw aerial application aircraft from Provincial Airways, and a Fouga CM.170 Magister, a Cold War-era jet brought in by Golden Era Aviation.
“Moose Jaw is a proud military city,” said Crystal Froese, honorary colonel with 15 Wing and one of the lead volunteers behind the event.
“As Honorary Colonel of 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, I was proud to see our community come together to celebrate those who serve. ... The Snowbirds — along with the training that happens every day at 15 Wing — are not only central to our local identity, but vital to Canada’s Air Force and national pride. This event was a fantastic way to highlight that commitment.”
In addition to strong attendance, the event was made possible through a wide network of partners and sponsors:
- SERCO handled sanitation and provided the volunteer appreciation BBQ
- CAE sponsored official event T-shirts for volunteers
- The Friends of the Forces Fellowship offered planning support
- Brigadier-General Dan Coutts and Colonel Adam Carlson (Commander of 15 Wing) played key roles in securing aerial assets and logistics
For safety, Moose Jaw Fire Department, local paramedics, and the RCMP were on site throughout the day. Ticketing was through SaskTix, and Golden West Radio Country 100.7 broadcasted live from the airport.
Organizers say the enthusiastic response from the public — and the strong working relationship with 15 Wing — have them already looking ahead to an encore next summer.
The Moose Jaw Municipal Airport, located just northeast of the city on Highway 301, has become an increasingly visible hub for aviation activity in southern Saskatchewan, and community events like this show help fund the infrastructure that keeps it growing.