Snowbirds flyby wows waiting crowd on Parliament Hill

A flyby over Parliament Hill featuring the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and thePatrouillede France air demonstration team to mark Canada's sesquicentennial went ahead Tuesday morning after several delays.

• Want to fly in a Snowbird? CBC's camera takes you along for the ride

The joint flyby was originally scheduled to begin at 10:45 a.m. Monday, but was cancelled because of the rainy weather.

It was then scheduled for 9:45 a.m. Tuesday morning, but was pushed back twice.

The planes finally passed over Wellington Street at around 11:30 a.m., to the delight of waiting crowds.

17-ship formation

"The Royal Canadian Air Force is delighted to welcome the Patrouille de France to Canada as we celebrate Canada's 150years of Confederation," said Lt.-Gen. Mike Hood, commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, in a media release.

"Canada and France have a profound connection, and our national air demonstration teamsflying in formation is symbolic of our lasting friendship and alliance."

The Snowbird team flew nine CT-114 Tutor planes and the Patrouille de France team flew eight Alpha jets in a 17-ship formation. Two "photo-chase" aircraft accompaniedthe two teams.

The flybycomes on the heels of the Aero150 air show that was held in Gatineau last weekend.