Canadian pilot killed as jet crashes during air show practice

  • Published
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. (AFPN) --  A Canadian Forces Snowbirds pilot crashed and was killed during an air show practice May 18 at about 3:45 p.m. at Malmstrom Air Force Base near Great Falls, Mont.

Canadian Capt. Shawn McCaughey, 31, the pilot of Snowbird 2 from Candiac, Quebec, died when his CT-114 Tutor jet impacted the ground during the practice flight.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain McCaughey's family," said Canadian Maj. Robert Mitchell, the commanding officer of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "Shawn was a professional officer, talented pilot and dear friend. Our team is devastated and we will miss him."

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds were scheduled to perform at the Malmstrom AFB Open House May 19 and 20.

Canadian forces flight safety will conduct an investigation.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds' mission is to represent the skill, professionalism and teamwork of the men and women in Canada's military and to support recruiting initiatives. 

More information on the team is available on their Web site at: www.snowbirds.forces.gc.ca. 

Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

Click here to view the comments/letters page