In just a few short days, the Penticton Peach Fest begins. The Canadian Snowbirds & Skyhawks are getting ready for the Penticton Air Display.
The SkyHawks, Canada’s only military parachute team, and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will be performing Wednesday night.
“We’re going to be flying right over the water, by the waterfront area and the pier. What you can expect is our full up high show, if the weather cooperates,” said Capt. Capt. Ari Mahajan, pilot of Snowbird 3, said that you can expect a full-up high show. He promises a 30-minute show.
“We’re going to be doing loopings, rolling and we’re going to do crosses, our full show.”
Monday morning’s landing by the Snowbirds was a blurred one due to smoke from the South Okanagan fire. The smoke has a significant impact on the type of show they can offer, and how many tricks they can perform.
“Smoke from forest fires can be very challenging. Obviously, it reduces the visibility, not just on the ground but also in the air, so smoke aloft can be a little bit of a concern,” said Capt. Erik Temple.
“We’re going to be monitoring very closely what’s going on, talking with NAV Canada and the other agencies to make sure the show is safe first and foremost.”
Penticton Peach Fest takes place at the halfway mark of their summer show.
Mahajan said that he is grateful that he can fly with the Snowbirds.
“To be able to take the show everywhere across North America and showcase to the public what we do, hopefully representing the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces, yes, it’s amazing.”
Day one of the festival will be marked by the Skyhawk and Snowbird performances. The pilots are eager to explore the South Okanagan’s beauty and wonders. They are asking Penticton boaters for their cooperation in avoiding the area where they will perform.
“We would love it if all watercraft, boats, paddleboards, and kayaks can just remain clear of the water towards the south side of the lake. That’s what we need in order to perform aerobatics, so we need that area to be clear or we have to change the show,” Temple said.
The SkyHawks’ performance begins at 5 p.m., while the Snowbirds’ show starts at 6 p.m. Wednesday night.
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