Women in the Snowbirds
Women have made history by holding important roles in the Snowbirds. They continue to serve as key members of Canada's iconic aerial acrobats.
Snowbirds Canadian Flag RCAF Foundation
The Snowbirds
The Snowbirds, officially known as the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, are one of the best known Canadian symbols.
They perform aerial aerobatics at air shows and special celebrations across Canada, like Canada Day in Ottawa.
Snowbirds Flag RCAF Foundation
A Tradition of Aerial Acrobatics
The Snowbirds continued on the traditions of RCAF aerobatic teams like the the Siskins, the Blue Devils, the Golden Hawks, and the Golden Centennaires.
The First Female Snowbird
In November 2000, Captain Maryse Carmichael was selected as a pilot for the Snowbirds, becoming the first female Snowbird pilot.
Maryse Carmichael in Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame
Maryse Carmichael in C-130 RCAF Foundation
An Experienced Pilot
Before joining the Snowbirds, Carmichael worked as a flight instructor. She served with No 434 (Combat Support) Squadron and No 412 (VIP Transport) Squadron, where she flew the Prime Minister and Governor General. She piloted the C-130 Hercules after her time with the Snowbirds.
Commander of the Snowbirds
In 2010, now a Lieutenant-Colonel, Carmichael became the Commanding Officer of the Snowbirds.
She was the first female commander of the squadron.
In Carmichael's Footsteps
In 2017, Captain Sarah Dallaire made history by becoming the second female Snowbird pilot.
She flew two seasons with the team.
Sarah Dallaire's Journey to the Snowbirds
Dallaire was inspired by Carmichael to become a Snowbird pilot.
Still Flying
Dallaire continues to serve as a Pilot in the RCAF.
Shillingford with Capt Deere RCAF Foundation
Women Behind the Scenes
Over 80 personnel support the 24-person Snowbirds show team. The squadron’s pilots, technicians, and support staff are hand-picked volunteers. Women fill many of these important roles.
Shillingford in Snowbird RCAF Foundation
First Female Tech
During the 1993-1994 season, Marlene Shillingford became the first female technician to work with the Snowbirds.
Making History Again
In 2008, Shillingford made history again when she became the first female crew chief of the Snowbirds.
She retired from the Regular Forces in 2024.
Snowbirds Arrowhead Formation RCAF Foundation
Female Icons in the Snowbirds
Pioneers like Carmicheal, Dallaire, and Shillingford are now icons in their own right. They continue to inspire Canadian women to explore careers in aviation.
Photo Credits
Snowbirds:
Canadian International Airshow
Sarah Dallaire:
2nd Canadian Snowbirds Female Pilot Captain Sarah Dallaire by
aviatrix20141
Marlene Shillingford:
Marlene Shillingford
Maryse Carmichael:
Pathway to the Stars: 100 Years of the Royal Canadian Air Force by Michael Hood and Tom Jenkins
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