After an early morning start, we arrived just in time to catch the morning dampness still glistening on the canopies of the  static display aircraft. We quickly began exploring various locations around Canadian Forces Base Shearwater. Much to our surprise the static was filled with US Navy aircraft. We also noticed there was not an Twin Otter in sight witch we hoped to see her because Yellowknife, N.W.T. is a bit further away the Nova Scotia .But still the presence of the USA forces was much bigger than expected.

Having a soft spot for vintage jet aircraft, we noticed the beautifully camouflaged CT-33 on static display. Not far away was another CT-33 in standard military grey. Given that these T-birds would be phased out of Canadian service in March 2002, we wasted no time shooting pictures.

The aerial displays were equally as entertaining. The Northern Lights, the world's first civilian all-jet aerobatics team, flew a very nice routine in their Czech Aero Vodochody L-39s. A pair of Luftwaffe Tornadoes from 52 Recce Wing, which were slated to do an aerial display, ran into trouble when one of the planes experienced a tire blow-out on take- off and could not fly. The remaining Tornado did put on a solo display. As the flying displays were put on hold while a CH-113 Labrador, Search and Rescue ( SAR ) helicopter performed a "hot" refuel. We later discovered the CH-113 was on it's way to pick up an ailing Russian sailor on a ship off the coast.  At the end of the show the Snowbirds did a flawless display. With this type of professionalism, it is no wonder the Snowbirds are considered to the best precision flying team in the world today.

NSIAS 2001 had several highlights. A pair of S-3B Vikings, the EA6-B, Buffalo and Sea King aircraft were all quite enjoyable to watch, while the retirement flight of the CT-133 was a historic occasion. The static display of a restored Banshee also served to remind us that at one point in history Canada had an aircraft carrier.

All in all a enjoyable day with thanks to Michael Creighton for offering us the facilities of the Nova Scotia International Air Show Association.