Why was Winnipeg called the jets?

Winnipeg Jets was the name of two different ice hockey teams based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The first franchise was founded in 1972 as one of the World Hockey Association's original twelve franchises. The second was founded as the Atlanta Thrashers in 1999, and eventually relocated and was renamed as the Winnipeg Jets in 2011.

Winnipeg Jets (WHA):

- The original Winnipeg Jets were part of the Western Hockey League (WHL) from 1956 to 1971 before joining the newly formed World Hockey Association (WHA) in 1972.

- The team chose the name "Jets" as it was a reference to the nearby Royal Canadian Air Force base in Winnipeg.

Winnipeg Jets (NHL):

- The current Winnipeg Jets franchise originated as the Atlanta Thrashers in 1999.

- In 2011, the team was purchased by True North Sports & Entertainment and relocated to Winnipeg.

- The team continued to use the "Jets" name, primarily due to the rich hockey history and strong fan support associated with the original Winnipeg Jets franchise.