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  • Montreal airport refuelling workers poised to strike as early as Tuesday

    News provided by the Montreal Gazette – link to full story and updates

    Strikes could begin as soon as Dec. 31 at Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau and Mirabel airports and significantly curtail air travel in Montreal.

    FRÉDÉRIC TOMESCO, Montreal Gazette, December 28, 2019

    A ground crew worker fuels a jet at Montreal’s Trudeau airport. ALLEN MCINNIS / MONTREAL GAZETTE FILES

    Workers who refuel aircraft flying out of Montreal’s Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau and Mirabel airports are planning to walk off the job by New Year’s Day if they can’t reach a deal with their employer.

    A 72-hour strike notice was officially given to Swissport Canada Saturday, Guillaume Valois, a spokesman for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, said in a telephone interview. This means that a strike could begin as soon as Dec. 31, at an as-of-yet unspecified time.

    Negotiations between the parties are set to resume Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in downtown Montreal, under the supervision of a government mediator.

    Ninety per cent of Swissport’s unionized workers rejected a tentative deal Friday night that had been put to a vote by their union, opening the possibility of a strike that could significantly curtail air travel in Montreal. They had originally threatened to go on strike on Christmas Day, but the contract offer postponed any walkout until New Year’s Day at the earliest.

    Swissport is the lone fuel supplier for aircraft at both airports. The employees affected by the contract include refuelling personnel, machinists, mechanics dispatchers and maintenance staff.

    STORY CONTINUES BELOW

    The workers have been without a contract since last August. Salaries and improved work-life balance are among the main issues to be settled in the negotiations.

    “They want their work conditions to reflect the level of responsibility and the risks they are exposed to day after day,” union executive Peter Tsoukalas said in an e-mailed statement. “They want to be able to do their jobs safely, have a decent income, job security and the respect of their employer. Right now, they are convinced that the only way to get that is through a strike.”

    With files from Presse Canadienne

  • Swissport Canada’s reaction following the rejection of tentative agreement by employees

    Provided by Swissport Canada Inc/CNW

    MONTREAL, Dec. 27, 2019 /CNW/ – We are surprised and disappointed with the outcome of today’s vote since we have answered the great majority of the union demands. The proposal was fair and included significant improvements in total compensation and work conditions. We want to reiterate our commitment to pursuing our activities. Travelers, customers, stakeholders and airport authorities can rest assured that our team will dedicate every effort to reach an agreement and continue the refueling service during this busy period as we go back to the negotiation table.

    SOURCE Swissport Canada Inc.

  • Baggage Liability Limits Increase for Air Travellers

    Provided by the Canadian Transportation Agency/CNW

    GATINEAU, QC, Dec. 27, 2019 /CNW/ – Starting December 28, 2019, limits of liability of the Montreal Convention will increase. Based on this rise, air passengers who travel internationally will now have the right to compensation for damages for lost or damaged baggage of up to 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (the International Monetary Fund’s unit of accounting) or approximately CAN $2,300.

    Airline international obligations for lost, damaged or delayed baggage are set out in Montreal Convention, a treaty that has the force of law for most international carriage to and from Canada.

    As the CTA’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) apply the same baggage rules and liability limits as those set out in the Montreal Convention, all airlines offering domestic services are required to update their liability limits in their tariffs to up to $2,300.

    The APPR stipulate airlines’ obligations on communication, denied boarding, tarmac delays, lost or damaged baggage, the transportation of musical instruments, flight disruptions and the seating of children. The regulations provide for clearer and more consistent air passenger rights by imposing certain minimum airline requirements in air travel – including standards of treatment and, in some situations, compensation for passengers.

  • Sunwing excited to introduce the island of Grand Cayman as its newest destination

    Provided by Sunwing Vacations Inc/Globe Newswire

    TORONTO, Dec. 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Residents of Southern Ontario will have more tropical destinations to choose from this winter with Sunwing. The tour operator has just announced the addition of a seasonal flight service to the island of Grand Cayman for the very first time. Direct flights from Toronto will operate on Sundays from February 2, 2020 until May 3, 2020, inclusive.

    The largest of the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean, Grand Cayman is home to breathtaking white-sand beaches, picturesque tropical landscapes and a gourmet culinary scene. Vacationers can spend their days soaking up the sun on the shores of Seven Mile Beach, snorkelling or scuba diving amongst colourful coral reefs and indulging in world-class dishes at five-star restaurants.

    President of Tour Operations for Sunwing, Andrew Dawson, commented on the news, “We are excited to be offering travellers departing from Toronto Pearson even more ways to Vacation Better this winter with the addition of this new destination. With its pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes, we’re sure that Grand Cayman will be a popular choice amongst Torontonian sun-seekers.”

    Director of Tourism, Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, Rosa Harris, celebrated the news, “We are so pleased to welcome Sunwing in offering Canadians with more opportunities to visit the Cayman Islands. We are proud to share our exceptional attractions, from our pristine Seven Mile Beach to the Crystal Caves and, as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, our diverse and exceptional restaurants.”

    Vacationers who take advantage of this new flight service can stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Grand Cayman. This boutique-style property is located in a picturesque private cove and is the only all inclusive resort on the famous Seven Mile Beach. Guests can look forward to personalized service, convenient on-site dining and comfortable accommodation options with private balconies.

    For more information or to book, visit www.sunwing.ca or contact your travel agent.

  • Air Canada’s Airbus 220-300 at YYZ

    24 December 2019 at Toronto Pearson YYZ

    Credit to Jaci Stevens © 2019 Copyright

  • 737 Max and Canadian operators

    Thanks to a hint from P.N.

    External Link to skiesmag.com
    How the 737 Max grounding has affected Canadian operators

  • Bombardier Expands Business Jet Sales Leadership Team

    December 23, 2019 Montréal Business Aircraft,  Bombardier Inc.,  Press Release

    • Michael Anckner appointed Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Learjet Aircraft and Corporate Fleets
    • Peter Bromby appointed Vice President, Worldwide Pre-owned Sales
    • Bombardier has the broadest portfolio of business jets that features the smoothest flying family of aircraft with the highest reliability and optimized operating costs across the board 

    Bombardier Aviation today announced two new senior leadership appointments across the business aircraft sales team, including Michael Anckner as Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Learjet Aircraft and Corporate Fleets, and Peter Bromby as Vice President, Worldwide Pre-owned Sales. The appointments allow a dedicated focus on growing two important segments of Bombardier’s business aircraft market.  

    “Learjet aircraft are the ultimate productivity tools featuring industry-leading performance and direct bottom-line benefits,” said Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Combining the Learjet sales team with the Corporate Fleets team is a natural fit as momentum continues following the launch of the Learjet 75 Liberty. Moreover, Bombardier’s business jet portfolio includes the broadest, smoothest flying family of aircraft with the highest reliability and optimized operating costs across the board.”  

    Michael Anckner has held various positions of increasing responsibility at Bombardier since 2013, most recently as Regional Vice President, Sales, Corporate Fleets and Specialized Aircraft. In his new role, Michael will keep his current responsibilities pertaining to Corporate Fleets and take on the mandate of continuing to increase the Learjet brand awareness and support its success.

    “Combining these two groups will naturally allow the Learjet and Corporate Fleets teams to create a unified approach to key markets by sharing knowledge and best practices,” added Likoray.

    The pre-owned aircraft market segment continues to play a key part supporting Bombardier’s success. A seasoned business jet industry executive, Peter Bromby’s new role will now focus exclusively on worldwide sales of pre-owned aircraft, contributing to this segment’s strategic growth and providing the highest calibre of support enabling customers to evolve seamlessly within the Bombardier product family.

  • Bombardier Proudly Delivers Fully Equipped Learjet 75 Aircraft to Montreal Leasing Firm Holand Automotive Group

    December 23, 2019 Montréal Business Aircraft,  Press Release

    • Holand will make this uniquely appointed, eight-passenger Learjet 75 aircraft available for charter out of Montreal
    • Learjet aircraft have class-leading range and speed and Bombardier’s signature smooth ride
    • Learjet 75 aircraft are the ultimate business productivity tools, with highly competitive operating costs to help drive bottom line results
    • Holand Automotive Group, which operates Holand Leasing and several other dealerships, is growing its North American footprint

    Bombardier is proud to announce that it has delivered a fully equipped Learjet 75 aircraft to Montreal-based leasing firm Holand Automotive Group.

    “Learjet aircraft are the ultimate business tools,” said Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “This aircraft has it all: a comfortable, productive environment, class-leading performance and Bombardier’s signature smooth ride.”

    Holand Automotive Group, which already owns and operates another Learjet 75 aircraft, will make this newest Learjet 75 aircraft available for charter out of Montreal. This fully equipped, reliable light jet is ideally suited for eight passengers. It features a spacious, comfortable cabin and a pocket door that ensures an exceptionally quiet flight. Learjet aircraft deliver Bombardier’s signature smooth ride, for maximum productivity and comfort.

    Montreal-based Holand Automotive Group owns and operates various renowned dealerships including Holand Leasing, Omega Leasing Canada, Rolls-Royce Motors Cars Quebec, Karma Montreal, BMW-MINI Ville de Québec and BMW-Lévis, as well as Karma and Lamborghini of Palm Beach in South Florida. It also recently acquired Maserati dealerships in Montreal and Laval.

    “There is simply no light jet in the world that performs like the Learjet 75 aircraft,” said Gad Bitton, President and CEO of Holland Automotive Group. “This reliable aircraft platform is available whenever it’s needed, taking our executives quickly and efficiently to various locations, maximizing productivity. We are very pleased to be purchasing our second Learjet 75 aircraft in two years.”

    Recent enhancements to the Learjet 75 aircraft set this business jet even further apart from its competitors. Learjet 75 aircraft operators now benefit from lengthened intervals between recurring major powerplant inspections, which have been extended to 3,500 engine hours from 3,000, reducing maintenance costs over the life cycle of the aircraft. A comprehensive Garmin G5000 avionics upgrade allows customers to optimize their routes and paves the way for future technological enhancements.

    Renowned worldwide for its sleek ramp appeal, the Learjet 75 aircraft is the only business jet in its class to feature an eight-seat, double-club configuration, a flat floor throughout the cabin and a pocket door for reduced noise levels.

    The Learjet 75 aircraft is certified to the FAA’s more stringent Part 25 regulations, applicable to commercial airliners, unlike most competitors in the light jet category that are certified to Part 23 regulations. Learjet aircraft are preferred by pilots for their impressive handling characteristics and outstanding performance.

  • Bombardier Celebrates Delivery of First Global 6500 Aircraft to HK Bellawings Jet Limited of Hong Kong

    December 23, 2019 Montréal Aviation,  Press Release

    Bombardier delivers its first Global 6500 aircraft to
    HK Bellawings Jet Limited

    • HK Bellawings operator to induct the Global 6500 business jet into their stellar portfolio of Bombardier products
    • HK Bellawings Jet Limited will become operator managing China’s largest fleet of Global 6500 and Global 7500 aircraft
    • Global 6500 aircraft are ideally suited for operations in Asia, offering global reach to key cities around the world and an elevated flight experience with Bombardier’s signature smooth ride technology

    Montreal, December 23, 2019 – Bombardier celebrated the delivery of its first Global 6500 aircraft to Hong Kong aircraft management company HK Bellawings Jet Limited. This news follows the Global 6500 jet’s recent entry-into-service on September 24, 2019, and its public debut at the National Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas in October.

    “The Global 6500 aircraft is the aircraft of choice for thriving business jet management companies such as HK Bellawings,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Aviation. “This industry-leading aircraft offers the largest cabin, the longest range and the smoothest ride in its class. With a refined interior, and the total performance synonymous with Global business jets, the Global 6500 aircraft is perfectly suited to meet the needs of the most discerning travelers in the region.”

    “We are thrilled to induct the Global 6500 aircraft into our fleet and to commence our operations with one of the world’s leading business jets,” said Mr. YJ Zhang, President, HK Bellawings. “With its stunning cabin and thoughtful design, we are confident the Global 6500 aircraft will provide an exceptional flight experience to our customers.”

    Boasting the widest cabin in its class and high-end craftsmanship, the Global 6500 jet provides passengers with the ultimate comfort for productive and enjoyable flights. The aircraft blends innovation and design seamlessly, and offers exclusive features such as Bombardier’s patented Nuage seat for optimal ergonomic comfort, as well as the Nuage chaise, a versatile seating option that converts from a lounge chair to a flat surface for sleeping or banquet-style dining. 

    Equipped with the purpose-built Rolls Royce Pearl engines and a redesigned wing to provide the smoothest ride, the Global 6500 jet offers a class-leading range of 6,600 nautical miles, connecting Hong Kong, Beijing or Shanghai to major destinations such as London, Milan or San Francisco. The brand-new Rolls-Royce Pearl engines’ next-generation design also make the Global 6500 aircraft a cleaner and more efficient business jet, delivering industry-leading ultra-low emission levels for a reduced environmental footprint.

    Established in 2014, HK Bellawings Jet Limited is a distinguished business jet management company dedicated to providing a diverse array of professional, highly efficient and comprehensive business aviation services and solutions, which include business jet management, aircraft maintenance, travel concierge service, aircraft acquisition service, and business aviation consultancy. They operate a fleet of Challenger and Global business aircraft.

  • Bombardier’s Performance-leading Global 5500 and Global 6500 Jets Awarded FAA Certification

    December 23, 2019 Montréal Aviation,  Business Aircraft,  Press Release

    • First Global 6500 aircraft entered into service in September and made its celebrated worldwide debut in October at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas
    • The Global 5500 and Global 6500 business jets received Transport Canada, EASA and now FAA certifications on time and as scheduled
    • The Global 5500 jet boasts an increased range of 5,900 NM, 700 NM more at Mach 0.85 than its closest and smaller competitor
    • The Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft have the smoothest ride, the largest cabins and the longest range in their class

    Bombardier announced today that its two latest additions to the Global family, the Global 5500 and Global 6500 business jets, have received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, achieving another important milestone following its successful entry-into-service in September and its impressive worldwide debut at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas.

    “This latest milestone is terrific news and starts a new chapter in our Global family story,” said Michel Ouellette, Senior Vice President, Program Management and Engineering, Bombardier Aviation. “With the largest cabin in their respective classes, breakthrough design attributes and unique expressions of comfort, control, and the smoothest ride, the Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft have a strong future and will earn the appreciation of executives, pilots and operators around the world.”

    The aircraft went through a rigorous flight testing program and obtained Transport Canada and EASA certifications within a few weeks of each other. The Pearl 15 engine was custom-designed with innovative technology – including enhanced aerodynamics, blade cooling and advanced engine health monitoring systems – to power the Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft. With the purpose-built engines, advanced wing design and built-in systems redundancy and robustness for which Bombardier Global aircraft are renowned, the aircraft offer superior safety and a smooth ride for passengers.

    Equipped with the revolutionary Bombardier Vision Flight Deck, the industry’s leading cockpit featuring the latest technology with advanced, workload-reducing automations, the aircraft offer a comprehensive avionics suite with ergonomics and aesthetics that provide pilots with outstanding comfort and control.

    The redesigned cabins aboard these aircraft are stunning as Global cabins are renowned to be, with exclusive features that are as innovative as they are luxurious. The Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft offer the patented Nuage seat, the first new seating architecture in business aviation in more than 30 years. The aircraft also feature the innovative Nuage chaise, business aviation’s first and only available lounge chair that converts into a flat surface for sleeping or banquet-style dining around the conference grouping table. Within the fluid lines of its exceptionally crafted architecture is a marvel of furniture engineering, meticulously designed to maximize comfort in flight.

    These new aircraft build on the success of the Global 5000 and Global 6000 aircraft by offering 700 and 600 nautical miles of additional range, respectively, coupled with an up to 13-per-cent fuel burn advantage, contributing to highly favorable operating costs versus smaller competing aircraft with less range. In addition, the Global 5500 aircraft flies 200 nautical miles farther than planned. With 700 nautical miles more at Mach 0.85 than its closest and smaller competitor, the Global 5500 aircraft can fly nonstop from Western Europe to the West Coast of the United States*, connecting more destinations and providing Bombardier’s signature smooth ride for exceptional passenger comfort.