The Tutor was designed with a side-by-side cockpit (for ease of instruction) and could enter spin easily. Because learning how to control spin is an important part of pilot training, Canadair wanted to build a plane that could get into a spin easily, predictably and recover easily. The result was distinctive 't'-tail, which maximized the spin mode.
The design was considered a success by the RCAF - who purchased 190 trainers in 1961. Used to train "advanced" pilots, it is known by Canadians and airshow enthusiasts as the Canada's "Snowbird" Squadron plane.