Category: Abbotsford YXX

  • Canada, Buckle Up: Flair Just Supercharged Your Winter Travel Plans With its Winter 2025 Schedule

    More Flights. More Savings. More Eh-mazing Adventures.

    Edmonton, March 27, 2025 – Snow problem, Canada – we’ve got you covered. Flair Airlines just dropped its Winter 2025 schedule like it’s hot chocolate on a cold day – with way more domestic flights to get you where you need to go (and maybe where you didn’t know you needed to).

    From extra hops between Vancouver and Calgary to a full-on flight-fest between Edmonton and Abbotsford, Flair is doubling down on domestic to bring you more flexibility, more savings, and fewer excuses to not visit your in-laws. Or not. We don’t judge. You could always fly directly to Guadalajara, Mexico, 4 times a week from Vancouver for a quick escape to heat and history.

    “We’re turning up the heat on winter travel with more flights, better options, and unbeatable value,” said Maciej Wilk, interim CEO of Flair Airlines. “Whether you’re chasing powder in the Rockies or pierogies in Toronto, we’re here to get you there — affordably, frequently, safely, and on time.”

    What’s New & Juicy in Winter 2025?

    Vancouver–Calgary: Now 21 flights a week (+40%) – basically, a shuttle.

    Edmonton–Abbotsford: +10 flights/week – call it “the commuter express.”

    Vancouver–Toronto: Jumping from 11 to 20 flights – because one flight a day was so 2023.

    Kelowna–Calgary: No longer seasonal – it’s officially a year-round love affair.

    Highlighted Route Increases Winter 2025: Peak Flights
    MarketWinter 2024 Weekly FlightsWinter 2025 Weekly FlightsIncreased Change
    Calgary – Toronto1013+30%
    Edmonton – Abbotsford1121+90%
    Edmonton – Vancouver1215+25%
    Edmonton – Toronto710+43%
    Kelowna – Calgary4NEW
    Toronto – Kingston, Jamaica34+33%
    Vancouver – Calgary1521+40%
    Vancouver – Toronto1120+82%
    Vancouver – Winnipeg57+40%
    Vancouver – Guadalajara, Mexico34+33%

    With demand for U.S. sun-trips cooling down, Flair is going all-in on True North travel. That means more planes, more cities, more maple-flavoured memories.

    Oh, and did we mention the best completion factor in Canada and the only On-Time Guarantee in the country? We don’t just get you there – we get you there when we said we would.

    So, what are you waiting for, Canada? That cousin’s wedding? That business trip? That ski weekend? The sky’s wide open. Let’s go.

    About Flair Airlines

    Flair Airlines is Canada’s most reliable airline. As Canada’s greenest airline, Flair is on a mission to provide affordable air travel that connects Canadians to the people and experiences they love. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve over 35 cities across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com.

  • Flair Airlines Adds Increased Frequencies Between Alberta and B.C.

      With up to five daily flights between Vancouver and Calgary, Flair is connecting Alberta and B.C. reliably, affordably, and conveniently. 

    December 10, 2024, EDMONTON, Alberta – Flair Airlines, Canada’s most reliable airline and home of Canada’s only On-Time Guarantee, is excited to announce enhanced frequencies between Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Abbotsford International Airport (YXX). Beginning in April 2025, frequencies in these key markets will increase significantly, featuring up to five flights daily between YVR and YYC.  

    Routes and Peak Frequencies in Summer 2025: 

    Route Peak Frequency Change vs. 2024 
    Calgary (YYC) to Vancouver (YVR) 33x weekly +57% 
    Edmonton (YEG) to Abbotsford (YXX) 25x weekly +56% 
    Edmonton (YEG) to Vancouver (YVR) 24x weekly +50% 
    Calgary (YYC) to Abbotsford (YXX) 21x weekly +50% 

     “The interconnectivity between Alberta and British Columbia is only getting stronger and more economically essential,” said Eric Tanner, VP of Network Planning and Revenue Management at Flair Airlines. “Flair is empowering passengers to do day trips between Alberta and British Columbia with affordable, convenient flight options in the morning and evening.”  

    Summer 2025 will see up to 340 additional monthly flights across these routes compared to last year, representing a year-over-year increase of 50% or more for each one. The increased frequencies are possible due in part to the strong cooperation between Flair and the YEG, YYC, YVR and YXX airports. More daily flights between Alberta and B.C. enhances convenience and connectivity for passengers. 

    “Flair’s expansion at YEG is a testament to the growing demand for travel options in our region,” said Adrian Warchola, Director, Air Service Development, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “This increase in non-stop service helps to strengthen connections for our community, drive economic prosperity and provide more opportunities to explore.” 

    Echoing Warchola, Ross Siemens, Mayor of Abbotsford shared enthusiasm about the increasing connectivity provided by Flair’s expanded routes to YXX from YEG and YYC. 

    “Flair Airlines shares our commitment to making air travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians,” said Ross Siemens, Mayor of Abbotsford. “We are very pleased to see Flair increasing its capacity and offering even more flights to and from Abbotsford International Airport this summer to support our rapidly growing Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver region and strengthen connections for residents and visitors alike. YXX is looking forward to sending Flair travellers off on their journeys, and warmly welcoming visitors to our region.” 

    With Flair’s On-Time Guarantee and low fares, interprovincial flying has never been easier – or more affordable. Book your tickets and join Flair in celebrating this new chapter of affordable, reliable travel between Alberta and British Columbia. 

    About Flair Airlines 

    Home of the On-Time Guarantee, Flair Airlines is Canada’s greenest and most reliable low-fare airline. Flair is on a mission to provide affordable air travel that connects Canadians to the people and experiences they love, on time, every time. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve over 35 cities across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com

  • Fast Air Expands Private Aviation Services at Abbotsford International Airport, Abbotsford, BC

    ABBOTSFORD, BC, April 8, 2024 /CNW/ – Fast Air, a prominent name in Canada’s aviation industry, proudly announces the expansion of its elite private aviation services at the Abbotsford International Airport, catering to the growing demands of the Vancouver lower mainland. Fast Air is renowned for its extensive experience in operating turboprop and business-jet aircraft, offering a diverse fleet for direct travel to destinations across North America.

    Fast Air's new 16,000 sqft aircraft storage hangar at the Abbotsford International Airport is suited for business jets and private charter service. (CNW Group/Fast Air Executive Aviation)
    Fast Air’s new 16,000 sqft aircraft storage hangar at the Abbotsford International Airport is suited for business jets and private charter service. (CNW Group/Fast Air Executive Aviation)

    Private chartering with Fast Air empowers travelers with unmatched flexibility and command over their schedules. The dedicated team at Fast Air is committed to providing a distinguished client experience, promising to surpass expectations and elevate every aspect of private travel.

    The expanded services at Fast Air Abbotsford include a comprehensive range of amenities such as complete aircraft management, a private VIP lobby, 24/7 fuel service, Canadian Customs support, Jet A Fuel and Aviation Gasoline, maintenance support, and an array of other services that ensure a seamless travel experience.

    The scenic lobby area offers picturesque views of Mount Baker, private meeting rooms, and hangar space for various business jets. This facility not only provides a luxurious environment for private aviation but also aims to bolster regional businesses with an unparalleled level of service, potentially attracting new business interest to the region.

    Dylan Fast, President and CEO of Fast Air, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “Abbotsford is an ideal location for our new project as we continue to expand to serve clients and meet the growing demands of the region. We’ve been planning this project for several years, and it’s exciting to see the site come to life. We’ve been extremely pleased with the fantastic reception, support, and collaboration from Abbotsford International Airport’s leadership and the regional business community.”

    Fast Air will be hosting it’s Abbotsford Grand Opening Event on Thursday, May 9th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm and is open to the public. To RSVP or to learn more about Fast Air’s exclusive charter news and updates, please contact marketing@flyfastair.com.

    About Fast Air:

    Headquartered at the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, Fast Air is now offering its unparalleled private aviation services from Winnipeg and Abbotsford International Airports as well as the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

  • WestJet celebrates addition of flights to Mexico from Vancouver

    Airline brings more sun and leisure connections to B.C.’s Lower Mainland

    VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 8, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today celebrated an expansion to its winter schedule serving British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, further enhancing its sun and leisure connectivity from Vancouver International Airport to some of Mexico’s most popular destinations. Additionally, as part of its connectivity to Mexico, WestJet has added weekly non-stop service between Vancouver and Ixtapa.

    “We are thrilled to bring more opportunity for our guests across B.C.’s Lower Mainland to seamlessly connect to their favourite destinations across Mexico this winter,” said Chris Avery, WestJet Vice-President, Network Planning, Alliances and Commercial Development. “In alignment with our strategy, we are proud to add Vancouver to the list of Canadian communities through which we are creating extensive and affordable opportunities for our guests to plan their winter getaways.”

    Network details

    RouteFrequencyStart Date
    Vancouver – Cancun9x weeklyYear round
    Vancouver – Los Cabos11x weeklyYear round
    Vancouver – Ixtapa1x weeklyFriday, December 22
    Vancouver – Puerto Vallarta9x weeklyYear round 
    Vancouver – Mazatlán2x weeklyFriday, November 3
    Vancouver – Huatulco4x weeklySunday, October 29

    With a 14 per cent increase to its capacity serving Mexico from Vancouver International Airport this winter, the airline will provide the most seats connecting Vancouver to Mexico than any other airline.

    Further enhancing its sun and leisure connectivity from the Lower Mainland region, WestJet’s network expansion also brings increased sun flying options from Abbotsford this winter.

    RouteFrequencyStart date
    Abbotsford – Puerto Vallarta2x weeklyTuesday, December 5
    Abbotsford – Los Cabos1x weeklyMonday, December 4

    WestJet Group capacity

    In addition to WestJet’s new sun connections serving the Lower Mainland, Sunwing Airlines, as a new but integral part of the WestJet Group, is further strengthening the regions leisure travel opportunities with an extensive winter schedule serving Vancouver International Airport. Learn more about Sunwing’s winter schedule. 

    About WestJet

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.

  • WestJet bolsters sun flying from British Columbia’s Fraser Valley

    Airline furthers commitment to Abbotsford with sun and domestic connectivity this winter season  

    ABBOTSFORD, BC, July 31, 2023 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced an expansion to its winter network schedule serving British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, with strategic new routes directly connecting Abbotsford to the popular beaches of Mexico.

    “Today’s announcement brings more opportunity for our guests across the Fraser Valley to seamlessly connect to their favourite sun destinations this winter, as the WestJet Group continues to further solidify its position as Canada’s favourite sun and leisure provider,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “We are proud to continue providing extensive and affordable opportunities for Canadians from east to west and everywhere in between to fulfill their aspirations to escape the cold and find the sun this winter.”

    Network details (below)

    RouteFrequencyStart date
    Abbotsford – Puerto Vallarta2x weeklyDecember 5
    Abbotsford – Los Cabos1x weeklyDecember 4


    In addition to its sun schedule, WestJet will also provide non-stop connectivity between Abbotsford and Alberta. With frequent service to Edmonton, Alberta’s capital and Calgary, operating year-round, WestJet will ensure the Fraser Valley is one seamless connection away from its 787 international hub, granting seamless access to travel across Canada, the United States, Central America, Europe and Tokyo.  

    RouteFrequency (peak)Start date
    Abbotsford – CalgaryDailyYear-round
    Abbotsford – Edmonton5x weeklyYear-round


    “Abbotsford was integral to Swoop’s success and remains a valuable part of the WestJet Group’s future,” continued Weatherill. “As we work through this transitionary period, WestJet’s service from Abbotsford will be centered on our strategic focus of providing non-stop connectivity to the sun destinations we know our guests rely on us for to escape the winter cold.”

    The WestJet Group commitment to affordability

    The WestJet Group continues to work through the integration of its ultra-low-cost subsidiary Swoop into one product offering under the WestJet brand with one goal in mind; to provide reliable and affordable travel to a broader spectrum of guests and communities across Canada and beyond. Through leveraging the ultra-low fare products pioneered by Swoop, WestJet will begin providing ultra-affordable fares and increased affordable vacation packages across Canada through the entirety of its 180 aircraft. 

    About WestJet

    In 27 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 110 destinations in 24 countries.

  • Flair Airlines Continues Impressive Growth With Flights to the U.S, Bringing Ultra-Low Fares to Sun Destinations

    Canada’s only true ULCC announces U.S service to 6 new sun destinations, bringing Canadians the lowest fares to their favorite places

    EDMONTON, Alberta, July 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flair Airlines, Canada’s only true ultra low-cost carrier (ULCC), continues to change the face of the Canadian aviation market with unprecedented growth as it announces non-stop, low fare flights between 8 Canadian cities and 6 U.S destinations: Fort Lauderdale, Orlando-Sanford, Phoenix-Mesa, Hollywood-Burbank, Palm Springs and Las Vegas.

    “We want Canadians to hear us loud and clear, you don’t have to rack up debt or save for months to enjoy travel this winter,” says Stephen Jones, President and CEO, Flair Airlines. “For years, Canadians have been over-paying for air travel to domestic and U.S destinations. Flair is here to ensure that Canadians are no longer taken advantage of and receive low prices for even better service. The fares to our new destinations ensure Canadians can easily enjoy travel this winter and spend some much-deserved time away exploring sunny new places.”

    Halifax, Montreal, Kitchener-Waterloo, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa and Abbotsford will receive service to a variety of the U.S cities starting this October. The ultra-low fares will start between $79 to $109 CAD one-way. All routes and schedule details can be viewed at https://www.flyflair.com.

    The new service to the six U.S cities are among several new destinations Flair is adding to its network as the airline rapidly grows to serve 26 destinations in Canada and the U.S. With an ambitious goal to grow to 50 aircraft in 5 years, Flair is rapidly expanding as it disrupts the market and brings affordable air travel to Canadians.

    Comments from our airport partners

    Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

    “We are pleased to see Flair adding new routes out of YVR to exciting vacation destinations such as Burbank (California), Palm Springs (PSP), Mesa (Arizona) and Las Vegas (Nevada). As we see restrictions ease and passenger traffic increase these new routes will allow for more travel options once we are able to explore freely again. We commend Canada’s airlines for continuing to serve Canadians through the last year and a half and we are excited to see Flair expand their offer to provide unique travel experiences. YVR is ready to welcome all passengers back to the airport and will ensure the passenger journey through the airport is an effortless and safe one,” said Russell Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development – Strategy

    Calgary Airport Authority (YYC)

    “Congratulations to Flair on their new routes. We’re excited for our guests to get back up in the air again flying to the warm destinations of Phoenix, Burbank and Las Vegas,” said Rob Palmer, Vice-President, Commercial, Strategy, and Chief Financial Officer, The Calgary Airport Authority. “We’re ready to welcome guests back safely and we look forward to the added sunny winter options for Calgarians.”

    Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

    “We are pleased to see that Flair has decided to increase its presence in Canada by enhancing its air service from YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport. Starting this fall, passengers will be able to benefit from a wide-range of options to popular sun destinations. This is good news for travellers – who we look forward to welcoming back to YUL – and it is another step in the recover of our industry and aviation activities,” said Stéphane Lapierre Vice President, Airport Operations and Air Services Development, ADM Aéroports de Montreal.

    Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

    “The increase in destinations will be an asset for the community,” commented Regional Chair Karen Redman. “We are pleased with Flair Airlines’ commitment to providing affordable travel and connectivity across Canada, as well as the opportunities this provides for an economic recovery in terms of business and tourism in the Region of Waterloo.”

    Ottawa International Airport Authority (YOW)

    “Flair’s YOW service expansion is a testament to their early success at our airport. As Canada’s Capital Region continues to rebuild from the devastating effects of COVID-19, not only are the residents of Ottawa-Gatineau ready to travel, we know that our destination is safe and attractive for visitors as well,” said Mark Laroche, President & CEO, Ottawa International Airport Authority.

    Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)

    “A new Flair Airlines route from Abbotsford International Airport to McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas will help serve our growing community and our region,” said Mayor of Abbotsford Henry Braun. “We know that as COVID-19 restrictions lift, the Abbotsford International Airport and its service providers will continue to be an economic driver for our community and the region, offering convenient and low cost flight options.”

    Halifax International Airport Authority (YHZ)

    “We are pleased with Flair’s plan to expand its upcoming winter season services with a new route between Halifax Stanfield and Orlando Sanford, Florida,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority. “As more of our community members are making travel plans, we’re excited by this new connection to the Sunshine State and look forward to offering direct U.S. and International air services again when the federal government restrictions on international flights to Canada are lifted.”

    McCarran International Airport – Las Vegas (LAS)

    “These new routes from Flair Airlines will significantly increase the opportunity for Canadians to experience Las Vegas,” said Chris Jones, McCarran International Airport Chief Marketing Officer. “Historically, Las Vegas has been a top destination for travelers from across Canada and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors to this world-class destination.”

    Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

    “We are excited that the recent completion of our new terminal modernization and expansion has accelerated our air service recruitment initiatives. We thank Flair Airlines for choosing SFB,” said Tom Green, Sanford Airport Authority Board Chairman.

    “SFB Airport a safe, efficient, and cost effective alternative to MCO. Flair Air recognized these benefits and we appreciate their decision. We believe Canada will be a strong market through SFB Airport. These flights to several cities will make it attractive to Canadian visitors and the local residents wanting to experience all the great things Canada has to offer,” said Tom Nolan, A.A.E, President & CEO.

    Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

    “Canadians have long appreciated our year-round sunshine, world-class special events and relaxed desert lifestyle,” said Mayor Christy Holstege. “We thank Flair Airlines for adding Palm Springs International Airport to their network and we look forward to a long relationship.”

    About Flair Airlines

    Flair Airlines is Canada’s only independent Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC) and is on a mission to liberate the lives of Canadians by providing affordable air travel that connects them to the people and experiences they love. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve 26 cities across Canada and the U.S. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com

    Flair Airlines US Destinations
    October 31, 2021 – March 26, 2022

    Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF)
    • Ottawa (YOW)
    • Montreal (YUL)

    Orlando-Sanford (SFB)

    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF)
    • Ottawa (YOW)
    • Montreal (YUL)
    • Halifax (YHZ)

    Las Vegas (LAS)

    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Ottawa (YOW)
    • Vancouver (YVR)
    • Abbotsford (YXX)
    • Calgary (YYC)

    Phoenix-Mesa (AZA)

    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Vancouver (YVR)
    • Calgary (YYC)

    Hollywood Burbank (BUR)

    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Vancouver (YVR)
    • Calgary (YYC)

    Palm Springs (PSP)

    • Vancouver (YVR)

  • Canadian Forces Snowbirds release 2021 Show Schedule

    December 8, 2020 – Moose Jaw, Sask. – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Today the Canadian Forces (CF) Snowbirds are releasing their tentative schedule for the 2021 Show Season, which will celebrate their 50th Anniversary.

    Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this schedule is subject to change. The CF Snowbirds are committed to the health and safety of their audiences and will adhere to the highest level of COVID-19 precautions. The team will work with each air show and event to ensure COVID-19 measures are in place for both the Snowbirds team and the general public.

    As Canada’s iconic air demonstration team, the CF Snowbirds inspire the public by highlighting the extraordinary skill, professionalism, teamwork, and diversity of the Canadian Armed Forces.

    Quotes

    “We are looking forward to celebrating our 50th season with Canadians in 2021. We are going to ensure that we follow recommended health measures in order to see our fans again in a safe environment this season.”            

    Lieutenant-Colonel Denis Bandet, Commanding Officer 431 Air Demonstration Squadron

    Quick facts

    • The CF Snowbirds have been entertaining audiences across North American since 1971 and are excited to celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2021.
    • The CF Snowbirds’ show is the result of six months of intensive preparation and training and consists of over fifty different formations and maneuvers.
    • 431 Air Demonstration Squadron consists of approximately 80 personnel, 24 of whom comprise the show team that travels during the show season. The CF Snowbirds’ demanding schedule is met through the dedicated teamwork of not only the Royal Canadian Air Force pilots and technicians, but also the entire home team in 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the squadron’s home base.

    2021 Snowbirds Schedule

    DateLocation
    June
    5 ‑ 6To be announced
    9North Bay, Ontario
    12 ‑ 13To be announced
    19 ‑ 20Niagara Falls, New York, USA
    22Hanover, Ontario
    24To be announced
    26Bagotville, Quebec
    July
    1Ottawa, Ontario
    5Thompson, Manitoba
    17Boundary Bay, British Columbia
    18White Rock, British Columbia
    21Terrace, British Columbia
    24 ‑ 25Springbank, Alberta
    31‑ 1To be announced
    August
    6 ‑ 8Abbotsford, British Columbia
    21Gander, Newfoundland
    22Conception Bay South, Newfoundland
    25Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
    29 ‑ 30Debert, Nova Scotia
    September
    2Brantford, Ontario
    4 ‑ 6Toronto, Ontario
    8Kingston, Ontario
    11 ‑ 12Gatineau, Quebec
    15Stratford, Ontario
    18 ‑ 19Mirabel, Quebec
    25 ‑ 26Sacaramento, California, USA
    October
    2 ‑ 3Huntington Beach, California, USA
    9 ‑ 10San Francisco, California, USA
    16 ‑ 17To be announced
  • Support to Canada’s Air Transportation Sector

    From: Department of Finance Canada ~ 30 March 2020

    Backgrounder

    The Government of Canada recognizes the unprecedented disruption to the air transportation sector resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the beginning of the pandemic, air passenger traffic has declined significantly as governments around the world impose border restrictions and advise their citizens to avoid unnecessary travel as a measure to slow the progression of the disease.

    Support to Airports

    Airports rely on fees paid by airlines and passengers to sustain their operations. As passenger traffic declines, airports are seeing their revenues fall, while at the same time they need to ensure safe operations.

    To help airports reduce cost pressures and preserve cash flow as they deal with the effects of COVID-19 on their revenue, the government is waiving rents paid on ground leases for the 21 airport authorities that form part of the National Airport System and that pay rent to the government. The government will waive rent payments for March 2020 through December 2020.  The government is also providing comparable treatment for PortsToronto, which operates Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, by waiving payments made to the federal government on revenues generated by the airport. This will provide relief up to $331.4 million, reflecting payments in the same period of 2018.

    By waiving ground lease payments, the government is helping these airport authorities to preserve cash flow during the disruption. This will allow them to redeploy cash to help maintain their operations and to support recovery strategies. This approach is consistent with actions taken to support the sector during previous major disruptions, such as the SARS outbreak in 2003.

    The 21 National Airport System airport authorities covered by this measure are not-for-profit, non-share capital corporations that pay rents to operate airports in Canada under long-term leases with Transport Canada. Rents are based on revenues earned from operating the airports and related lands, which are owned by the government.

    The 21 airport authorities that will receive relief are:

    • St. John’s International Airport Authority
    • Gander International Airport Authority Inc.
    • Halifax International Airport Authority
    • Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.
    • Saint John Airport Inc.
    • Greater Moncton International Airport Authority Inc.
    • Fredericton International Airport Authority
    • Aéroport de Québec Inc.
    • Aéroports de Montréal
    • Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority
    • Greater Toronto Airports Authority
    • Greater London International Airports Authority
    • Thunder Bay International Airports Inc.
    • Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.
    • Regina Airport Authority
    • Saskatoon Airport Authority
    • Edmonton Regional Airports Authority
    • Calgary Airport Authority
    • Prince George Airport Authority Inc.
    • Vancouver International Airport Authority
    • Victoria Airport Authority.

    PortsToronto operates the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and pays an annual charge to Transport Canada based on the revenues it earns under the terms of its letters patent.  PortsToronto revenues include those generated from operating Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

  • Short staffing, deviation from standard procedures led to May 2018 loss of separation near Montreal/Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport

    Provided by Transportation Safety Board of Canada/CNW

    DORVAL, QC, July 10, 2019 /CNW/ – In its investigation report (A18Q0069) released today, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) found that short staffing and a deviation from standard procedures by air traffic controllers led to a May 2018 loss of separation between an Air Transat Airbus A310 and a Cessna 421 light twin-engine aircraft near the Montreal/Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.

    On 16 May 2018, both aircraft were inbound to land at the Montreal/Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. The Airbus was coming from the west and was to fly north of the airport and land on Runway 24R, while the Cessna was inbound from the northeast and was to land on Runway 24L. A loss of separation between the two aircraft occurred when both aircraft were approximately 18 nautical miles northeast of the airport. At the closest point, the two aircraft came within 500 feet vertically and 1.7 nautical miles laterally of each other. Normally the aircraft should be separated by at least 1000 feet vertically or 3 nautical miles laterally.

    Although seven controllers and a shift supervisor would have normally been scheduled to work that evening, absences and illness reduced that number to three controllers and a supervisor. As a result, six sectors of airspace normally divided among the controllers needed to be combined and controlled by just three—which in turn increased each of their areas of responsibility, as well as their workload and its complexity.

    The TSB’s investigation also found that, with the Cessna approaching from a sector to the northeast, control responsibility for it was not transferred to the next sector according to standard procedure. As a result, a controller-in-training responsible for the receiving sector, was not initially aware of the presence or intentions of the Cessna until it entered his airspace, and as a result did not have an opportunity to develop a plan to deal with the converging traffic. Also during this time, the instructor, who was both the shift supervisor and responsible for the trainee, was distracted by other tasks and wasn’t able to accurately monitor the developing situation.

    Shortly thereafter, the controller-in-training noticed the Cessna on the display and the required separation was re-established. Both aircraft then landed without incident.

    The Board is not aware of any safety action taken following this investigation.

    See the investigation page for more information.

    The TSB is an independent agency that investigates air, marine, pipeline, and rail transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability.

  • Fly away with Swoop to San Diego this winter

    Provided by Swoop/CNW

    Airline welcomes new route to San Diego from Edmonton and Abbotsford

    CALGARY, July 2, 2019 /CNW/ – Today Swoop announced service to San Diego, Calif. from Edmonton, Alta. and Abbotsford, B.C. beginning October 4, 2019. This announcement comes one week after the release of Swoop’s 2019 winter schedule which offers non-stop flights in 39 markets that are available for booking now through April 25, 2020.

    As a complement to the published winter schedule, Swoop has added three-times weekly service between EdmontonInternational Airport (YEG) and three-times weekly service between Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). The non-stop San Diego routes are offered every Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

    “San Diego is an excellent addition to our winter line-up with a schedule that encourages weekend excursions by air,” said Karen McIsaac, Sr. Advisor of Communications at Swoop. “With some of the best beaches in California and plenty of attractions, San Diego is another example of how Swoop is bringing desirable locations at an affordable price within reach of Canadians.”

    San Diego joins Los Cabos, Mexico as one of two new destinations in Swoop’s 2019 winter schedule which offers 28 winter getaway routes to fun and sun destinations.

    “Our passengers and community are thrilled with a non-stop flight to San Diego,” said Tom Ruth, President and CEO, Edmonton International Airport. This represents another key Swoop investment in the Edmonton Metro Region, following the announcement last week of more flights to other sun destinations this winter. San Diego is a great, in-demand, destination and we look forward to this flight taking off in the fall.”

    “On behalf of the City of Abbotsford I’d like to congratulate Swoop Airlines on their expanded service to San Diego this winter,” said Abbotsford Mayor Henry Braun. “YXX continues to service travellers across the region and I’m very pleased to see how Swoop will support the growth and expansion of Abbotsford International Airport and make air travel more accessible.”

    “San Diego International Airport is thrilled to welcome Swoop to the best gateway in Southern California,” said Kimberly J. Becker, San Diego International Airport’s President/CEO. “The closest airport to downtown by far, Swoop passengers will be quickly on their way to the numerous San Diego attractions including beaches, nightlife, spas, parks and museums.  It will also encourage San Diegans to visit the amazing cities of Edmonton and Abbotsford that bookend the beautiful Canadian Rockies.”

    Swoop will be accepting the delivery of three more aircraft in 2019, bringing its fleet total to 10 Boeing 737-NG 800s by the end of the year.

    Flights are now available for booking through April 25, 2020.  

    Details of Swoop’s new service

    Service 
    Between (Starts 
    October 4, 
    2019)
    Service 
    Offered
    Weekly 
    Frequency
    Air 
    Transportation 
    Charges (ATC) 
    base fare from
    Taxes, 
    Fees and 
    Charges
    Total 
    One-Way 
    Price 
    From *
    Edmonton and 
    San Diego
    Thursday, 
    Friday & 
    Sunday
    3x weekly$65.58$93.42$159CAD
    Abbotsford and 
    San Diego
    Thursday, 
    Friday & 
    Sunday
    3x weekly$95.58$63.42$159CAD
     *Every day low fares. Lower promotional fares may be available during select travel periods.