Canadian Forces Snowbirds fly over Sault Ste. Marie Monday morning

Canadian Forces Snowbirds flyover northern Ontario People in Sault Ste. Marie got to see the Canadian Forces Snowbirds on their cross country tour to raise morale. Christian D'Avino reports.

Sudbury — Sault Ste. Marie residents were treated to a special flyover Monday morning by the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

The Snowbirds are currently on a trek across Canada, called Operation Inspiration, as part of a way to boost morale for Canadians during the pandemic.

"It's our salute to the frontline workers throughout Canada, for all the efforts that they're doing, as well as every Canadian for doing their part," said Captain Joel Wilson, in speaking with CTV News in southwestern Ontario Sunday.

The Snowbirds arrived in the city shortly after 10:30 a.m. and circled the city twice.

Wilson says the goal was to target residential areas, to encourage physical distancing.

A nine-jet formation with trailing white smoke began in Nova Scotia the first weekend in May and is working its way west.

The pilots will stop in Thunder Bay Monday evening, before continuing their tour out west on Tuesday.

"Every year, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds travel the country putting smiles on the faces of Canadians," said Lieutenant-General Al Meinzinger, Commander Royal Canadian Air Force. "While Canadians may not be able to gather at air shows, for now, we’re honoured to bring the Snowbirds team to Canadians and to pay special tribute to them."

"We’ve been asked to do what we do best… inspire Canadians," said Lieutenant-Colonel Mike French, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "Through Operation INSPIRATION, we not only want to salute the front-line health-care workers, first responders, and essential workers but also all Canadians doing their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. We want Canadians to know we’re in this with you."

People are encouraged to watch the flyovers from the safety of their homes and to not travel to watch them.