Comox Valley Airport | 22 December 2021 – Thanks to CW
The winter holiday season is a busy time of year at Comox Valley Airport. Planning ahead will reduce stress and make your journey safer, and more enjoyable.
This year, more than ever, a fully charged cellular phone is useful for accessing flight information, checking in, and displaying your vaccine passport. There are also several apps that you can download before you leave that will be needed or useful for travel.
For anyone travelling out of country – the ArriveCan App is required to enter Canada.
Your airline may have an app, that will permit you to check in, and obtain current flight information, along with many other features, such as inflight food and beverage and entertainment. The airline websites have useful information to help plan for your flight, including pre-travel testing options, baggage restrictions and current COVID-19 measures.
For more information regarding COVID-19 follow the advisory on the Comox Valley Airport Commission website.
Comox Valley Airport parking can be booked and paid for “touch free” using the Honk mobile app. This can save you time when you arrive, and is particularly useful if you need to extend your parking remotely – just make sure to remember your plate number!When using the HONK app – the paved lot is Zone 372A and all of the gravel (economy) lots are Zone 372B.
For additional “frequently asked questions”, and more information follow this link YQQ’s Holiday Travel Tips.
The YQQ Ready program on our website outlines the enhanced measures in use at the terminal to help keep passengers, staff and air crew safe. The management and staff of Comox Valley Airport Commission wish you all Happy Holidays, and safe travels.
“Our seasonal service to Puerto Vallarta is at risk again … if this policy isn’t changed soon”
ERIN HALUSCHAK | 8 December 2021
The Comox Valley Airport board of directors is hoping for a little help from Comox in order to assist travellers heading south.
At the Dec. 1 council meeting, council received a letter from Martin Crilly on behalf of the Comox Valley Airport Commission asking for a letter of support to reinstate their seasonal direct Comox to Puerto Vallarta service.
For years in conjunction with WestJet, YQQ offered the service pre-pandemic, allowing travellers the ability to avoid stopovers in either Vancouver or Calgary. Crilly noted in his letter while the board is encouraged by the steps the federal government has taken to restore international flights to more Canadian airports, “as one of the regional airports that have not yet been included in that decision, we are anxious.”
He added the board sees no reason why YQQ should wait, as they remain focused on restoring operations while maintaining the same public health standards that are currently expected of all airports across the country.
“Our seasonal service to Puerto Vallarta … is at risk again this year if this policy isn’t changed soon,” he wrote. “There doesn’t appear to be any reason that smaller, regional airports are being discriminated against by maintaining this policy.”
While the airport commission has sent letters to federal representatives requesting support for the airport to resume the international flight service, they also inquired with council “to add their voice to the debate.”
Mayor Russ Arnott made a motion for the town to write a letter of support which was unanimously approved.
Ultra-low fare airline announces its largest expansion ever with eight new domestic routes as part of summer schedule and new non-stop service to Palm Springs
Brings enhanced connectivity to Atlantic Canada with first ever non-stop flights from Edmonton to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and new non-stops to Nova Scotia
Reaffirms commitment to city by naming its newest aircraft #Edmonton
Tom Ruth, President and CEO of Edmonton International Airport welcomes Swoop’s newest aircraft #Edmonton (CNW Group/Swoop)
EDMONTON, AB, Nov. 15, 2021 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, reaffirmed its commitment to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region with the announcement of new service to one U.S. and eight domestic destinations from its Western Canadian base. The airline’s significant new investments were celebrated this morning alongside the unveiling of Swoop’s newest aircraft, which will fly with the name #Edmonton.
The airline’s growth will see Swoop’s flight capacity in Alberta’s capital increase 76% compared to pre-pandemic levels, supporting the creation of 140 additional direct and spin-off jobs and an anticipated $120M of economic output activityi in 2022.
From left to right (Juanita Marois, CEO, Métis Crossing, Tom Ruth, President & CEO, Edmonton International Airport, Charles Duncan, President of Swoop, Rajan Sawhney, Alberta Minister of Transportation, Rick Smith, Deputy Mayor of Leduc County, Tim Cartmell, City Councillor, City of Edmonton) (CNW Group/Swoop)
“This is a major milestone for Swoop as we underscore our commitment to leading the way for ultra-low fare air travel in Canada and reaffirm our position as the airline with the most destinations from Edmonton,” said Charles Duncan, President of Swoop. “With a strong focus on growth and Edmonton as our partner, we will continue to provide our travellers with more non-stop flights and ultra-low fares while supporting the recovery of Canada’s travel and tourism economy.”
New non-stop flights to eight Canadian cities
The addition of eight new Canadian destinations to Swoop’s summer schedule will see non-stop service from Edmonton to Charlottetown, Comox, Halifax, Kelowna, Moncton, Ottawa, Regina and Saskatoon. Swoop will be the first carrier to bring non-stop connectivity from Edmonton International Airport to Charlottetown and Moncton and the airline’s summer schedule will also see the restoration of service to London, Ont.
Hello, Palm Springs!
Beginning December 16, Swoop’s transborder presence is growing from Edmonton with the addition of new service to Palm Springs. The scheduled non-stop service to Palm Springs will operate twice weekly.
#Edmonton
To commemorate its history and commitment to Edmonton, Swoop celebrated the naming of its newest aircraft #Edmonton alongside key government leaders and business stakeholders at Edmonton International Airport.
Following the event, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft entered service for the operation of flight WO 770 departing Edmonton at 12:00 local time, en route to Phoenix (Mesa), Arizona with a scheduled arrival of 3:30 PM local time. Edmontonians can expect to see #Edmonton operating several of Swoop’s newly announced routes.
Full schedule details of Swoop’s service from Edmonton can be found below.
Domestic Routes
Route
Peak Weekly Frequency
Start Date
Total one- way fare (CAD) †
Base Fare (CAD)
Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Halifax*
5x weekly
May 1, 2022
$159
$104.35
$54.65
Edmonton – Charlottetown*
2x weekly
June 16, 2022
$159
$104.35
$54.65
Edmonton – Kelowna*
7x weekly
May 5, 2022
$49
$1.59
$47.41
Edmonton – Ottawa*
4x weekly
April 25, 2022
$59
$9.12
$49.88
Edmonton – Comox*
3x weekly
June 9, 2022
$49
$1.59
$47.41
Edmonton – Regina*
2x weekly
June 16. 2022
$49
$1.59
$47.41
Edmonton – Saskatoon*
2x weekly
June 14, 2022
$49
$1.59
$47.41
Edmonton – Moncton*
2x weekly
June 17, 2022
$159
$104.35
$54.65
Edmonton – London
3x weekly
June 2, 2022
$59
$9.11
$49.88
Edmonton – Winnipeg
4x weekly
Continuing
$160
$105.30
$54.69
Edmonton – Toronto
14x weekly
Continuing
$59
$9.12
$49.88
Edmonton – Hamilton
7x weekly
Continuing
$60
$10.06
$49.94
Edmonton – Abbotsford
7x weekly
Continuing
$49
$1.59
$47.41
Edmonton – Victoria
7x weekly
Continuing
$60
$12.06
$47.94
†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.
Transborder Routes
Route
Peak Weekly Frequency
Start Date
Total one- way fare (CAD) †
Base Fare (CAD)
Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Las Vegas
7x weekly
Continuing
$99
$8.84
$90.16
Edmonton – Phoenix (Mesa)
1x weekly
Continuing
$110
$18.36
$91.63
† Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between May 2 and June 22, 2022.
New Service to Palm Springs
Route
Peak Weekly Frequency
Start Date
Total one- way fare (CAD) †
Base Fare (CAD)
Taxes and Fees (CAD)
Edmonton – Palm Springs*
2x Weekly
December 16, 2021
$99
$7.89
$91.11
†Special introductory fares are limited quantity. Book by November 29, 2021 for travel between January 10 and February 19, 2022.
Supporting Quotes
“Swoop’s commitment to Edmonton is a clear sign that there is confidence in Alberta’s Recovery Plan. The new routes across Canada and to Palm Springs open up exciting opportunities for tourism and business.”
Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Transportation
“I want to thank Swoop for supporting the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Having increased connections across Canada and beyond through Edmonton International Airport is vital for our region. As a major city contributing to Alberta’s recovery, strong air service will help us create jobs and grow our economy.”
Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton
“Next time you hear a plane passing over, look up, look way up, and you just might see #Edmonton flying by. Thank you Swoop for naming one of your fleet after our great community, we’re honoured you will help carry the name Edmonton across Canada and North America. Your dedication to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region is helping bring more low-cost travel options for our passengers and we can’t wait for these new destinations to start.”
Tom Ruth, President and CEO, Edmonton International Airport
To learn more about Swoop please visit FlySwoop.com and for information on how Swoop is ensuring a safe and healthy travel experience visit FlySwoop.com/traveller-safety.
About Swoop
Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.
Swoop’s modern fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, equipped with in-seat power and Wi-Fi connectivity has safely carried more than 3 million travellers in three years of operation. FlySwoop.com allows travellers to quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight.
i Source: Swoop 2022 Edmonton International Airport Economic Impacts performed by the Chris Lowe Group
The Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) welcomes Swoop Airlines to the Comox Valley with service starting in June 2022.
“Swoop’s arrival will generate a lot of excitement for travellers looking for affordable options to reconnect with their friends and family,” said Mike Atkins, Comox Valley Airport’s CEO.
“We are delighted to have Swoop support travel to the Comox Valley, particularly for our tourism partners ready to welcome visitors to the spectacular region we serve.”
Swoop will commence three times weekly service from Edmonton, using their modern fleet of Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, on Thursday, June 9, 2022.
“We are thrilled to begin service to Comox Valley Airport with the announcement of our new non-stop service to Edmonton,” said Charles Duncan, president of Swoop. “With more than three million travellers having already experienced Swoop’s incredible service and ultra-low fares we are confident this new route will be a huge success.”
In October, Flair Airlines announced they will commence flying out of YQQ in March, 2022, with three weekly non-stop flights to both Edmonton and Calgary.
Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop – like Flair Airlines – is an Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC). ULCCs offer unbundled low base fares that only includes the seat; baggage, seat selection, snacks and carry-on bags come at additional fees.
On Vancouver Island, Swoop currently flies to the Victoria International Airport.
Take advantage of additional flight options. Book your summer trip today.
Origin and Destination
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Weekly Flights
Highlights
Vancouver – Victoria
4x
4x
4x
4x
4x
4x
1x
21
Improved minimum connection times between YYJ and other destinations
Vancouver – Powell River
4x
4x
4x
4x
4x
4x
2x
26
Vancouver – Bella Coola
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
7
New daily service
Vancouver – Trail
2x
2x
2x
2x
2x
2x
1x
13
Vancouver – Williams Lake
2x
1x
2x
1x
2x
1x
1x
10
Vancouver – Comox
2x
2x
2x
2x
2x
2x
0x
20
All non-stop flights (no more stops in YBL )
Vancouver – Campbell River
3x
3x
3x
3x
3x
3x
2x
12
All non-stop flights (no more stops in YQQ)
Vancouver – Port Hardy
1x
2x
1x
2x
1x
2x
1x
10
Evening flight Sunday to Friday will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Bella Bella
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
7
New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Tofino
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
7
Flights will operate on Saab, Sunday to Friday. New Saturday service.
Victoria – Kelowna
2x
2x
1x
2x
2x
2x
0x
11
Victoria – Prince George
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
0x
6
Vancouver – Cranbrook
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
0x
6
Vancouver – Masset
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
7
New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
Vancouver – Penticton
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
7
New daily service
Vancouver – Kamloops
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
1x
0x
6
Book With Greater Peace of Mind.
We’re offering unlimited ticket changes for customers who purchase flights by January 31, 2022. Travel worry-free. Learn more.
For ultimate peace of mind and the ability to cancel and receive a refund to the original form of payment, we recommend booking a refundable Encore Fare.
The Comox Valley Airport looks forward to welcoming Flair Airlines to the region commencing March 29th, 2022, with three weekly non-stop flights to both Edmonton and Calgary.
“We’re very excited that Flair Air has chosen Comox as the gateway to central Vancouver Island,” said Mike Atkins, CEO of the Comox Valley Airport Commission. “As air travel continues to rebound, Flair’s service to Calgary and Edmonton provide incredible low-cost options to visitors, businesses and friends and family alike. We can’t wait to share the beauty of Vancouver Island with Flair’s passengers.”
Earlier today, Flair announced 14 new domestic and US routes, including Comox. The airline not only strives to achieve the lowest cost per seat mile of any Canadian airline, it also uses a fuel-efficient fleet of new aircraft, to achieve fuel savings and reduced C02 emissions, a vital step in lowering Flair’s carbon footprint.
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 28 cities across Canada and the U.S. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com
Service will launch in Spring 2022 to San Francisco, Nashville, and Denver in the U.S., between Toronto and Victoria and to Comox, B.C., in Canada
Canadian ULCC adds four aircraft to bases in Toronto, Edmonton and Vancouver
150 new jobs created from schedule and fleet growth
Edmonton, Alberta, Oct. 19, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flair Airlines, Canada’s only independent ultra low-cost carrier (ULCC), continues its unprecedented growth with the deployment of four brand new 737 MAX aircraft in April and May 2022. Two additional aircraft will be added to Flair’s Toronto base, bringing the total there to five. A second aircraft will be added to Flair’s Edmonton base and a third aircraft to its Vancouver base. Flair’s Spring 2022 schedule will expand from twelve aircraft to sixteen, delivering 33% schedule growth.
A whopping 14 new routes will be added, including service to four fantastic new destinations. Three new cities will be added to Flair’s network in the US, allowing Canadians to finally travel affordably to San Francisco, Nashville, and Denver. Flair will also launch Comox as a second gateway to Vancouver Island, complementing existing service to Victoria and allowing visitors to explore even more of the island.
“Travelling and reconnecting with friends will be among the top priorities for many Canadians in the coming months, and Flair is continuing our growth by adding more aircraft and routes so we can bring sustainably low fares to even more iconic destinations across North America,” said Stephen Jones, President and CEO, Flair Airlines. “Whether you’re looking for a weekend break on Vancouver Island or hiking in the Rockies, Flair will get you there affordably.”
With the addition of these four aircraft, Flair will create 150 new jobs for flight attendants, pilots and operational support staff. Flair is currently recruiting for 100 pilot positions to meet the needs of its growing fleet.
Flair is adding new 737 MAX aircraft as it strives to achieve the lowest cost per seat mile of any Canadian airline. The aircraft deliver fuel savings and reduce the airline’s CO2 emissions by 14%. Lower per passenger emissions are a vital step in lowering Flair’s carbon footprint as it works to become Canada’s greenest and most sustainable airline.
Fares to US destinations start between $99 and $129 CAD one-way and several of the new domestic Canadian routes have fares as low as $49 CAD one way, including taxes and fees. All routes and schedule details can be viewed at https://www.flyflair.com.
Flair is also starting service to 6 US destinations this Fall and currently serves 18 destinations in Canada. Flair is growing to serve 28 destinations by spring 2022.
Toronto Pearson Base Grows to 5 Aircraft
The addition of two aircraft based in Toronto will grow Flair’s footprint to five aircraft. Flair will be providing low fares on nonstop flights to 19 destinations from Toronto Pearson Airport.
“We are excited to welcome Flair’s new routes as they expand their network and offer Canadians more options to travel to the U.S. as well as the picturesque destination of Victoria, BC. Passengers travelling through Pearson can do so confidently with many measures in place to keep them safe, such as no- and low-touch check-in and bag drop, improved air quality and contactless shopping and dining options,” said Craig Bradbrook, Chief Operating Officer, Greater Toronto Airports Authority.
Edmonton Base Opening in December
In December, Flair will be opening a base in Edmonton with the addition of a new aircraft and adding new nonstop service to Hollywood-Burbank, Las Vegas, Palm Springs and Phoenix-Mesa. The spring addition of routes to Nashville, San Francisco, Comox, Regina, Montreal, Winnipeg and Saskatoon will join the nonstop flights Flair currently provides to 7 domestic destinations from Edmonton.
“Grab a guitar and get ready to go! Edmonton loves country music and we’re excited to have Nashville joining our list of non-stop destinations. All new and added service supports our recovery which is important for both our business community and leisure travellers. I want to thank Flair for adding these American destinations along with significant increases in service for several Canadian cities. I’m confident our community will embrace these flights and this increased service from Flair,” said Tom Ruth, President and CEO, Edmonton International Airport.
Additional Vancouver Growth
Adding a third aircraft to the Vancouver base allows Flair to expand service in Western Canada. The nonstop flights to San Francisco and Kelowna will follow new service starting this Fall that includes nonstop flights from Vancouver to Hollywood-Burbank, Palm Springs, Phoenix-Mesa and Las Vegas.
“We are thrilled to support the growth of Flair’s network from YVR. This latest announcement will mean new options out of YVR to popular destinations to BC’s interior and south of the border,” said Russell Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development, Vancouver Airport Authority. “With more people being vaccinated and travel measures easing, we look forward to continued increased service from Flair which will benefit the community and the economy that supports it.”
ULCC Growth Benefits Canadian Travellers
With the addition of new aircraft and more capacity, Flair is providing more affordable air travel options across Canada and to the USA. As travel returns, Flair’s low fares will help kickstart tourism and reconnect families.
“We’re excited to welcome Flair Airlines to Nashville International Airport®, which means more connectivity between Nashville and Canadian destinations,” said Doug Kreulen, Nashville International Airport president and CEO. “Edmonton is an outstanding new addition to BNA’s® portfolio of international flights, and more service to Toronto is great news for everyone. We look forward to welcoming Flair passengers to Nashville next April with ultra-low fares.”
“Expanding Denver’s global connectivity not only aids in our economic recovery, it also continues to elevate our city as a global hub,” Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock said. “As borders reopen and we begin to welcome back international travel, the investment by Flair into Denver is a big boost for our community and local businesses.”
“We’re excited to see our partnership with Flair continue to evolve as we work to restore in-demand travel options interrupted amid the pandemic,” said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “The return of this route will provide travellers with additional, convenient options when flying between Winnipeg and Edmonton, whether to visit family and friends or pursue business or study opportunities. We look forward to welcoming back this popular route, meeting our community’s needs through services at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport.”
“Skyxe is excited to be expanding our relationship with Flair Airlines. Edmonton is a high traffic market for Saskatoon, and we hope the addition of Flair’s low cost service option will allow many of our residents to visit friends and family in Edmonton more often,” said Stephen Maybury, CEO of Skyxe Saskatoon Airport.
“We’re very excited that Flair Air has chosen Comox as the gateway to central Vancouver Island,” said Mike Atkins, CEO of the Comox Valley Airport Commission. “As air travel continues to rebound, Flair’s service to Calgary and Edmonton will provide incredible low-cost options to visitors, businesses and friends and family alike. We can’t wait to share the beauty of Vancouver Island with Flair’s passengers.”
“We are delighted to see more options for passengers on the very popular Vancouver – Kelowna and Victoria – Kelowna routes as we continue to see more growth by Flair out of Kelowna,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director, Kelowna International Airport.
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 28 cities across Canada and the U.S. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com.
New Destinations for March & April 2022:
USA
Nashville, TN (BNA)
Denver, CO (DEN)
San Francisco, CA (SFO)
CANADA
Comox, BC (YQQ)
New Routes
USA
Toronto – Nashville (YYZ-BNA) – 2x weekly starting April 14, 2022
Toronto – Denver (YYZ-DEN) – 3x weekly starting April 15, 2022
A suspicious item in a piece of checked baggage activated an emergency response at the Comox Valley Airport Wednesday (Oct.13), however, the incident did not cause any delays to flights.
Mike Atkins, chief executive officer of the airport explained around noon, the airport’s emergency response plan was activated, which includes the attendance of the Comox Valley RCMP.
“Shortly thereafter, the owner of the luggage was identified and provided a description of the item in question, resolving the incident,” he noted in an email to The Record.
The airport returned to normal operations within approximately 45 minutes without delays to inbound or outbound aircraft or passengers.
Air service returns to Dawson Creek as WestJet Link connects city to WestJet’s global hub
CALGARY, AB, Sept. 8, 2021 /CNW/ – Today, WestJet launched its newest route with the departure of WestJet Link flight 3027 connecting Calgary and Dawson Creek, B.C. The inaugural marks a new link for the regions’ business, travel and tourism markets as WestJet becomes the only carrier to provide nonstop service between the Peace River Region and its largest hub in Calgary, where the airline is the largest carrier, offering the most seats and flights.
“Our guests in both Calgary and the Peace River Region have been patiently awaiting this important milestone and we are thrilled to bring air service to the community,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. “As we continue to build back our network, Dawson Creek will benefit from lower fares and connectivity across our network as we strive to reconnect Canadians for business and leisure.”
Upon flight 3027’s arrival in Dawson Creek, the inaugural service was celebrated by Dawson Creek Mayor Dale Bumstead alongside Chris Hedlin, WestJet’s Vice-President of Network Planning and key regional business leaders.
“The City of Dawson Creek is so pleased to welcome WestJet into our city and the entire South Peace region of Northeast BC. This new direct service to Calgary is so important to the economic development of our city,” said Dale Bumstead, Mayor, Dawson Creek. “The Energy, Forestry and Mining sectors are all very important to our region and this new service will be a welcome addition for industry while also providing our residents with nonstop air service to WestJet’s global hub in Calgary for their leisure and business travel.”
The new service and new route for WestJet operates four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. WestJet Link flights are operated through a capacity purchase agreement with Pacific Coastal Airlines using its fleet of WestJet-branded 34-seat Saab 340 aircraft.
With the addition of Calgary-Dawson Creek service, WestJet Link now operates five routes between Calgary and Cranbrook, Lethbridge, Lloydminster and Medicine Hat and three between Vancouver and Cranbrook, Nanaimo and Comox.
Details of WestJet’s service between Calgary and Dawson Creek:
Route
Frequency
Start Date
Departure
Arrival
Calgary – Dawson Creek
4x weekly
September 8, 2021
3:30 p.m
4:37 p.m
Dawson Creek – Calgary
4x weekly
September 8, 2021
5:15 p.m
8:13 p.m
Additional quotes
“With many development projects happening across western Canada, the addition of WestJet’s Calgary to Dawson Creek, B.C. route is an important connection that supports economic development, benefiting both provinces,” said Chris Miles, Vice President, Operations & Infrastructure for The Calgary Airport Authority. “This route also provides guests in Northern B.C. direct access to Alberta and destinations across the country with YYC’s extensive connecting flight network.”
“We are very excited to be a part of the new air service to Dawson Creek,” says Pacific Coastal Airlines President, Quentin Smith. “We are pleased to see WestJet Link grow and look forward to our continued partnership and linking communities to the WestJet network.”
About WestJet In 25 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 100 destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic.
Since the start of the pandemic the WestJet Group of Companies has built a layered framework of safety measures to ensure Canadians can continue to travel safely and responsibly through the airline’s Safety Above All promise. During this time, WestJet has maintained its status as one of the top-10 on-time airlines in North America as named by Cirium.
For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com.
July saw a big jump in passengers at the Comox Valley Airport over the previous month, though numbers are still down from 2019. Black Press file photo
Passenger numbers from June to July more than doubled
MIKE CHOUINARD | Aug. 25, 2021
Traffic is returning to the Comox Valley Airport, albeit a bit slowly.
During a presentation to the Comox Valley Regional District board at the Aug. 24 meeting, airport chief executive officer Mike Atkins provided an update on what is happening.
The number of passengers at the terminal is still well below the numbers from 2018 and 2019, but they are starting to recover from the massive drop-off connected to COVID-19 starting in 2020. The CEO noted that even between June and July, numbers were beginning to show increases, growing from 7,000 passengers in June to about 18,000 the following month. Seat capacity is increasing over that from 2020, which saw an 88.3 per cent drop from 2019. It has increased 105 per cent over last year but is still down over 2019.
“Routes and frequencies are starting to come back,” he added.
Still, the numbers are lower than normal, with 66,000 passing through the terminal during the last fiscal year compared with about 400,000 annually before the pandemic.
He said the next few years for the industry are still unclear and pointed to questions such as whether online Zoom meetings would replace in-person business meetings.
“The crystal ball is broken,” he said. “It’s very hard to look into the future.”
Atkins did not have statistics in response to a question from the board about the number of business travellers, but he said anecdotally that many of the people flying in and out do seem to be business customers. He linked the airport to the overall economic development of the region.
“Our vision is to be the aviation gateway to the north Island,” he said.
The drop-off last year meant an operating loss, but the airport was helped because of reduced costs by its being on military base land. As well, the airport was augmented with senior government funding to help the facility and keep staff employed.
One of the challenges Atkins cited was the uncertainty about the partners for tourism and economic development now that the tourism centre operation has been transferred from the Comox Valley Economic Development Society to the regional district. He expressed concerns about the marketing for the facility.
“It’s difficult for us to determine who to work with,” he said.
Another issue will be finding more Comox Valley Airport Commission board members as the local government representatives, he added.
In response to a question from the CVRD board, Atkins also said the facility is looking at its carbon footprint, saying they would be seeking professional advice about a carbon audit, but he added they have been looking for other changes to make such as switching to LED lights in the terminal to reduce energy demands. He also said they have been making progress toward acquiring land for more parking.
Atkins started the job in January, and CVAC board chair Martin Crilly commended him for the work he has been doing since starting.
“We were very fortunate to attract a senior executive of Mike’s calibre,” he told the CVRD board. “He’s been doing a great job.”
