Canadian Aviation News

News, Fleet Information, Airport Log and more

Tag: Kelowna YLW

  • Airports Across Canada Collaborate with #NotInMyCity to Help Disrupt and End Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking

    Airports are taking a united approach towards creating awareness and encouraging education among staff

    CALGARY, AB, Feb. 22, 2022 /CNW/ – Today, on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, #NotInMyCity is pleased to announce a number of airports across the country are standing in solidarity to help raise awareness about sexual exploitation and human traffiicking.

    #NotInMyCity has been working with airports to provide #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials and access to a customized e-learning course to help airport staff identify the risk factors of those being trafficked and moved through airports across Canada.

    According to the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking1, transportation corridors are frequently used by traffickers, and once a victim has been recruited, traffickers will often move them from city to city to maximize profits, access new markets and avoid competition. It also helps keep control of the victim who may not know where they are, or how to get help, making it easier for traffickers to evade detection by police. Victims of labour trafficking may also enter Canada by way of air travel, under the false promise of a job or educational opportunity.

    Based on experiences shared by survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, many were regularly transported throughout the country and from city to city by their traffickers. Says one Indigenous survivor of sexual exploitation, “As a youth, I was moved from city to city and was targeted, groomed and sold to men because of what they desired as an “exotic” look. Their fantasy became my trauma. Exploitation of people just like me is happening in our cities, and it must end.” 

    One mother, Jennifer Holleman, whose daughter Maddison was lured into sexual exploitation, indicated that her daughter was moved by her traffickers throughout Canada. She says, “What started as new friendships for my teenage daughter turned into a life of pain, coercion and exploitation, and eventually led to her death. My daughter was a victim of human trafficking, right here in Canada. No human should have to go through what she went through.”

    National Human Trafficking Day brings attention to Canada’s fastest growing crime and second largest source of illegal income worldwide. In Canada, 21 per cent of trafficking victims are under the age of 18. Despite Canada’s Indigenous population accounting for just 4 per cent of the country, it is estimated that 50 per cent of all Canadian trafficking victims are Indigenous.

    #NotInMyCity has developed the customized educational program leveraging North American best practices, helping airport employees identify individuals who may be victims of trafficking, and taking action with a “do no harm” approach.

    “Creating broad awareness and educational opportunities lead to positive change,” says Natalie Muyres, Program Manager at #NotInMyCity. “We want awareness of human trafficking risk factors to become second nature to airport staff. By working with their safety teams, embedding human trafficking education into their culture and providing skills and confidence, teams will know what to do if they see something that doesn’t seem right. It could very well save lives.”

    Examples of how airports are helping to disrupt these crimes by working in collaboration with #NotInMyCity are provided below. Other Canadian airports are invited to access #NotInMyCity resources and materials to implement within their operations.

    1 https://www.canadiancentretoendhumantrafficking.ca/the-role-of-the-transportation-sector-in-the-fight-against-human-trafficking-in-canada/

    The Fort McMurray Airport Authority has implemented the #NotInMyCity educational course into their onboarding process, shared information and training materials with their terminal partners and have placed #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials on digital screens, posters and in washrooms throughout the terminal. Every employee who has completed the e-learning wears a yellow pin and has a lanyard card with the operations phone number and risk factors to watch.

    “We want to do everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and visitors,” says RJ Steenstra, President & CEO of Fort McMurray Airport Authority, “By working with #NotInMyCity, we are able to leverage the well-researched e-learning already in place, while adding enhanced screening tools and skills for our airport employees to use in their daily duties, staying vigilant and taking action when appropriate.”

    The Calgary Airport Authority initially launched awareness campaigns with #NotInMyCity in 2018. In 2021, they launched the #NotInMyCity e-learning course to more than 50 employees, and has future campaigns in the works using #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials.

    Toronto Pearson International Airport recently launched its awareness campaign on February 18, with a kick-off awareness event and presentation for employees and terminal partners, which will be followed by an external campaign within its terminals using #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials.

    Says Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson International Airport, “As Canada’s largest airport we have a responsibility to take action and do our part to help vulnerable passengers as they travel through Pearson. By partnering with #NotInMyCity, we’re able to educate airport workers on how to spot human trafficking as it’s happening and step in to respond appropriately. We’re happy to be joining other airports across Canada in this important cause.”

    At Kelowna International Airport, effective January 1, 2022, the #NotInMyCity e-learning program became part of the onboarding process for all new airport employees. #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials will be launching in the terminal in the coming months.

    Ottawa International Airport kick started an awareness presentation in conjunction with #NotInMyCity on February 17 as part of their monthly security tabletop meeting. They provided security and other Airport Authority personnel with an overview of the e-learning program which they are rolling out to the rest of their team effective today.

    London International Airport is now promoting the #NotInMyCity e-learning course to their employees and are in the process of launching an awareness program leveraging the #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials.

    “It is sadly not uncommon for airports to be used as transportation hubs for human traffickers, making it all the more important for airport staff and passengers to be aware of signs of human trafficking and also how to safely report a suspected case” says Scott McFadzean, President & CEO of London International Airport. “We are proud to support and partner with #NotInMyCity as they do invaluable work to disrupt and end human trafficking in Canada.”

    The Edmonton International Airport has launched a number of awareness programs in collaboration with a number of agencies. Says Steve Maybee, Vice President, Operations and Infrastructure, Edmonton International Airport, “Trafficked/sexually exploited people aren’t always hidden in dark rooms, away from the public eye. They’re often transported from one place to another and use public transportation. At EIA, safety and security is our top priority. We’re proud to continue our work with #NotInMyCity to make sure our airport is a place where traffickers are not welcome.”

    Additional airports who have initiated partnerships with #NotInMyCity to deliver the e-learning course and posting #NotInMyCity human trafficking awareness materials broadly include Halifax Stanfield International Airport and Vancouver International Airport.

    In December 2021, #NotInMyCity launched an allyship with Flair Airlines, which included the launch of the #NotInMyCity e-learning program for all employees, drawn on international aviation best practices. The airline currently employs more than 500 people.

    For the general public, #NotInMyCity offers a free interactive e-learning course for anyone interested in learning more about the issue of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Canada. It was developed in collaboration with provincial, national and international thought leaders. Upon completion of the free 30-minute e-course, participants are awarded with a certificate. Thousands of individuals have completed the course so far. Notinmycity.ca is also home to information and educational videos about the issue.

    In Canada, anyone can call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010 if they believe they witness or are experiencing human trafficking or sexual exploitation. In Alberta, individuals can also call 2-1-1.  If anyone is ever in immediate danger, it is recommended to call 9-1-1. To learn more visit notinmycity.ca.

    About #NotInMyCity

    #NotInMyCity is a facilitative organization that is raising awareness and taking collective action to prevent, disrupt and end sexual exploitation and trafficking, focusing on children and youth. The #NotInMyCity movement is growing. We are working in alliance with key stakeholders, creating awareness, educating others and mobilizing a strategic, integrated plan to bring about transformational and sustainable change at all levels. Visit notinmycity.ca or follow us @NIMCAlly.

  • Lynx Air’s network continues to bloom as it adds Victoria, BC as its sixth destination

    The ultra-affordable airline adds “The City of Gardens” to its network and has also announced a new route between Toronto and Winnipeg

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 15, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Canada’s new ultra-affordable airline, Lynx Air (Lynx), is continuing to take off in the Canadian market with the addition of Victoria, BC to its growing network and the expansion of its presence in Toronto, ON, and Winnipeg, MB.

    With this announcement, Lynx’s network expands to six Canadian cities: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Kelowna and Victoria.

    Passengers will now be able to fly between Winnipeg, MB, and Toronto, ON to connect with loved ones or take a long awaited vacation. Lynx will offer two flights per week between these two cities beginning Thursday, May 5, 2022 starting at the price of $69* one way.

    On Thursday, May 12, 2022, Lynx sets its sights on the breathtaking coastal views of Victoria, BC. Canadian travellers now have an ultra-affordable option to check out the vibrant city’s historic architecture and endless opportunities for adventure. The airline will offer two services a week between Calgary, AB and Victoria, BC, increasing to three weekly services on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, with prices starting from $39* one way from Victoria to Calgary. Prices from Calgary to Victoria start at $49* one way.

    “We are excited to be adding beautiful Victoria to our network and to be offering more ultra-affordable travel options for travelers wanting to fly between Toronto and Winnipeg,” said Merren McArthur, CEO, Lynx Air. “We will continue to ramp up our schedule in the lead up to summer, so please stay tuned for more updates, as we continue our mission to make air travel more affordable for all Canadians.”

    “As the economy begins to reopen, we are pleased to see Lynx introduce service between Calgary and Victoria commencing in May. A low-cost airline like Lynx will offer affordable travel options for our community and provide opportunities for travellers to explore the beauty and culture of Victoria,” said Geoff Dickson, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.

    Passengers can visit www.FlyLynx.com for full schedule details and to book their Lynx flight to enjoy a well-deserved vacation, visit loved ones or experience convenient travel for business.

    *including taxes and fees, prices are subject to availability.

    New Route Details

    RouteService StartsWeekly Roundtrip

    Frequency
     Winnipeg, MB – Toronto, ONMay 5, 20222x
     Calgary, AB – Victoria, BCMay 12, 20222x
    3x (from June 22, 2022)

    About Lynx Air

    Lynx Air (Lynx) is Canada’s new ultra-affordable airline, on a mission to make air travel accessible to all, with low fares, a fleet of brand-new Boeing 737 aircraft and great customer service. Lynx is a privately owned Canadian airline with the financial backing and industry expertise required to transform the Canadian aviation landscape.

  • Government of Canada supporting the Kelowna International Airport with new funding for critical infrastructure projects

    Transport Canada

    KELOWNA, BC, Jan. 26, 2022 /CNW/ – As Canada works towards recovery, investments in our airport infrastructure continue to be crucial to maintain safety, security, and connectivity for travellers, workers and communities. Government of Canada investments also help ensure Canada’s aviation industry is well positioned to recover from the impacts of the pandemic.

    Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra and the Minister of International Development and the Minister for Pacific Economic Development Canada, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, announced more than $18 million in funding to help the Kelowna International Airport recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to support continued air services and important transportation infrastructure projects at the airport.

    To help ensure safe airport operations for aircraft, passengers and crew, the airport will receive over $15.2 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support:

    • the expansion of the airport’s combined operations building;
    • the replacement of sections of the terminal building roof;
    • upgrades to airfield lighting infrastructure;
    • the construction of runway end safety areas (RESA); and
    • the establishment of facilities and modified airport infrastructure to facilitate improved flow and management of air travellers and airport employees related to COVID-19 testing and screening.

    In addition to the funding for the critical infrastructure projects, the Government of Canada also provided the Kelowna International Airport with just over $3 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Kelowna and surrounding communities.

    Quotes

    “As we move forward with the safe and gradual return of activity in the aviation sector in a way that continues to support the health, safety, and security of all Canadians, it will be imperative that we continue to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector. These critical investments will allow the Kelowna International Airport to invest in the infrastructure and tools needed to help re-invigorate the aviation industry and allow Canadians to feel safe and secure when they travel.”

    The Honourable Omar Alghabra
    Minister of Transport

    “The Kelowna International Airport keeps British Columbia connected. By investing in critical transportation infrastructure projects we are enhancing airport safety for travellers, air crews, and airport workers. This continued support will fund important upgrades while creating jobs, bolstering the regional economy as we recover from the effects of the pandemic and look to grow economically after a year of extreme weather in British Columbia.”

    The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan
    Minister of International Development and the Minister for Pacific Economic Development Canada 

    Quick Facts

    • The Government of Canada continues to advise all Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada at this time.
    • The Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, launched in May 2021, will distribute $571.2 million in funding over five years to airports for eligible infrastructure projects related to safety, security, and connectivity to mass transit systems.
    • First introduced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program is part of a federal stimulus recovery plan designed to build a stronger, more inclusive and more resilient economy post-COVID-19.
    • The Airport Relief Fund, launched in May 2021, provided $64.8 million in funding in 2021-2022 for targeted airports whose 2019 revenues were less than $250 million.
    • In August 2021, funding in the amount of $81.6 million was announced under the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support Canada’s major airports with investments in COVID-19 testing and screening infrastructure.

    Associated Links

    Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. 

  • B.C. airports tap into land assets for post-pandemic survival

    From Vancouver Sun 🔗 link to source story – thanks to CW

    Canadian airports anticipate passenger numbers will not return to pre-COVID levels until 2025

    Derrick Penner  •  January 24, 2022

    People move their luggage at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Dec. 16, 2021.
    People move their luggage at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Dec. 16, 2021. PHOTO BY ARLEN REDEKOP /PNG

    At YVR, the airport authority is enhancing air-cargo services for burgeoning, COVID-inspired ecommerce.

    In Kelowna, their focus has been a new hotel and potential aerospace campus.

    Victoria International Airport is tweaking its strategic plan to diversify the use of nearby lands.

    These are some of the efforts as B.C.’s airports work to “future proof” operations for an expected slow recovery of air travel from COVID-19 related travel restrictions.

    So far, that recovery has also been “quite a roller-coaster,” according to Geoff Dickson, CEO of the Victoria International Airport, where passenger traffic climbed to 70 per cent of pre-pandemic levels by December, only to plummet back to 25 per cent after the emergence of Omicron.

    “Just when you think you’re out of it, then another variant comes along and we’ve noticed an immediate affect traffic demand,” Dickson said.

    If anything, airports have learned that they were getting little too dependent on passenger revenues when air traffic was hitting record highs at facilities such as YVR, Abbotsford and Kelowna, which was exposed when COVID-19 slammed air travel down to almost nothing through most of 2020.

    So Dickson, in the last year, has leased land to Western Canada Spill Response, the marine manufacturer Titan Boats and Amazon, which is building a last-mile distribution centre at the airport in a deal that originated before the pandemic.

    “I’d say (the pandemic) probably crystallized our efforts to a large extent and really put a priority on moving the project forward with a view to try to replace some of the lost revenue,” Dickson said.

    At YVR, where the airport authority had the advantage of being able to rely on financing to cover its shortfalls, it is a matter of “future-proofing” the facility’s financial stability, according to a report to be presented to Vancouver City Council by CEO Tamara Vrooman this week.

    Doing that will mean developing more of its industrial land base in Richmond as a transportation hub, the report said.

    One bright spot at YVR is that cargo traffic at the airport returned to 83 per cent of its pre-COVID levels over the summer, which it sees as something to build on.

    “Through better utilization of the land on Sea Island, YVR can help meet the need for large trade and transportation-related sites in support of B.C.’s economic recovery plans,” the report said.

    Kelowna International Airport has also seen a bounce back in cargo traffic, thanks to booming ecommerce, said airport director Sam Samaddar.

    “If there was something that came out of this was that we needed to look at how we diversified our revenue even further and not rely solely on the passengers coming through our doors,” Samaddar said.

    A new hotel could be useful in catering to new domestic routes that Kelowna started serving over the summer, thanks to travel restrictions that discouraged international travel.

    “What’s unheard of is having a brand new market open up right in the middle of a pandemic,” Samaddar said of one route in particular, a direct Air Canada flight to Montreal, which launched in July for year-round service.

    It also added flights to Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, Saskatoon and Regina. Victoria also added new flights to Winnipeg, Ottawa and Kitchener-Waterloo.

    “Can we count on (those routes) going forward? I don’t know at this stage,” Dickson said. “But we’ll continue to obviously push for those routes and services and we think the carriers were pleasantly surprised.”

    Samaddar said so-called ultra-low-cost airlines have helped inject optimism into the sector. In Kelowna, newcomer Lynx Air is one of the airlines to established service between Calgary and the Okanagan in the last year.

    The ambitions of low-cost carriers Swoop and Flair helped Abbotsford International Airport edge back toward recovery as well, said general manager Parm Sidhu.

    “What we all want is to get back to 2019 levels,” Sidhu said, although B.C. airports expect that won’t happen until 2023 — 2025.

  • Lynx Air Tickets Go on Sale for Flights to Five Canadian Destinations

    The ultra-affordable airline will launch with flights to Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Kelowna and Winnipeg, with more to come

    CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Canada’s new ultra-affordable airline, Lynx Air (Lynx), announced the much anticipated launch of its booking website, with tickets going on sale for flights to the airline’s first five destinations: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Kelowna and Winnipeg. This is an important milestone in Lynx’s mission to make air travel accessible to all Canadians, with ultra-low fares, a fleet of brand-new Boeing 737 aircraft and great customer service.

    Lynx’s inaugural flight will take to the skies on Thursday, April 7, 2022, from Calgary to Vancouver. The airline will offer daily flights between these two significant travel hubs, increasing to twice daily flights on Friday, May 20, 2022.

    On Monday, April 11, 2022, Canada’s largest city, Toronto, will be added to the Lynx network, with four flights a week from Calgary, increasing to seven flights a week on Monday, April 18, 2022. Daily flights between Toronto and Vancouver will be launched on Thursday, April 28, 2022.

    The ultra-affordable airline’s network will continue to expand over the following weeks, with two services a week to Kelowna from each of Calgary and Vancouver starting on Friday, April 15, 2022.

    Winnipeg will be added to Lynx’s network on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, with two flights per week to each of Calgary and Vancouver. Flights from Calgary to Winnipeg will increase to four per week on Thursday, May 5, 2022.

    In celebration of this significant milestone, Lynx has been running a competition to win free flights for a year and the lucky winners will be announced soon. The celebration continues today, with the airline announcing ultra-affordable launch fares from $39 one-way*. Travellers can book now at FlyLynx.com.

    ”We have been delighted with the positive response to the news of Lynx’s arrival as Canada’s new ultra-affordable airline. As our booking site goes live today, we are excited to bring our commitment to ultra-low fares to life, by offering special launch fares from $39 one-way*,” said Merren McArthur, CEO, Lynx Air. ”By May, Lynx will be operating 76 flights per week and that is just the beginning. We will continue to add destinations and routes as we ramp up for the busy summer season, offering even more choice and flexibility to Canadians. Stay tuned for more announcements soon.”

    “We are thrilled to be the departure airport for Lynx’s inaugural flight in April,” said Bob Sartor, President and CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority. “At YYC, we’re ready to show Lynx guests Calgary’s legendary hospitality as the airline grows across Canada.”

    “At YVR, we’re excited to welcome Lynx Air to Vancouver, which will provide even more options for travellers from our airport,” said Russell Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development at Vancouver Airport Authority. “We look forward to Lynx Air’s first flights from YVR and being part of the airline’s growth as they focus on offering more choice and affordable fares for the people of B.C. and beyond.”

    “We are delighted to see Lynx Air launch routes to Kelowna from Calgary and Vancouver in April,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director, Kelowna International Airport. “An affordable airline like Lynx will open doors for travellers looking to explore our beautiful region and increase travel opportunities for the Okanagan community.”

    “Lynx Air will provide more options for those travelling to other parts of Canada, while also giving visitors to Pearson greater opportunities to explore Ontario,” said Craig Bradbrook, Chief Operating Officer, Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “We are pleased to welcome Lynx Air to our airport and look forward to continued partnership as they expand their services to and from Toronto.”

    “We are excited to welcome Lynx Air to the gate at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport to help provide more affordable travel options to meet the needs of our community,” said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “It’s great news to see Canada’s newest low-cost airline gearing up to launch direct service out of Winnipeg to Calgary and Vancouver, adding capacity to these two in-demand destinations and growing the number of airline partners operating out of Winnipeg to further keep our region connected.”

    Flights are now available for booking at FlyLynx.com. Please note that dates are subject to change. Visit the website for full schedule details.

    Details of Lynx’s launch schedule

    RouteService StartsWeekly Roundtrip
    Frequency
    Calgary, AB – Vancouver, BCApril 7, 20227x
    14x (from May 20)
    Calgary, AB – Toronto, ONApril 11, 20224x
    7x (from April 18)
    Vancouver, BC – Kelowna, BCApril 15, 20222x
    Calgary, AB – Kelowna, BCApril 15, 20222x
    Calgary, AB – Winnipeg, MBApril 19, 20222x
    4x (from May 5)
    Vancouver, BC – Winnipeg, MBApril 19, 20222x
    Toronto, ON – Vancouver, BCApril 28, 20227x

    * Available for a limited time; fares are accurate at time of release and include taxes and fees; fares vary by destination and date.

    About Lynx Air

    Lynx Air (Lynx) is Canada’s new ultra-affordable airline, on a mission to make air travel accessible to all Canadians, with low fares, a fleet of brand-new Boeing 737 aircraft and great customer service. Lynx is a privately owned Canadian airline with the financial backing and industry expertise required to transform the Canadian aviation landscape.

  • Kelowna International’s Sam Samaddar Becomes Chair of Airports Council-North America

    Kelowna International’s Sam Samaddar Becomes Chair of Airports Council-North America

    The news was announced on Tuesday, Jan. 4, with YLW director Sam Samaddar, above, replacing outgoing chair Lew S. Bleiweis, the executive director of the Greater Asheville, N.C., Reginal Airport Authority.
    The news was announced on Tuesday, Jan. 4, with YLW director Sam Samaddar, above, replacing outgoing chair Lew S. Bleiweis, the executive director of the Greater Asheville, N.C., Reginal Airport Authority. City of Kelowna

    January 4, 2022

    WASHINGTON – Kelowna International Airport Director Sam Samaddar became Chair of Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) on January 1, 2022. Samaddar was elected to the position in November 2021 and succeeds outgoing Chair Lew S. Bleiweis, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority.

    “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, North American airports have continued to provide essential services to passengers, workers, and local communities while also ensuring their health and safety, and Lew has been at the forefront of guiding our industry during these challenge times,” said ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. “As we continue to respond to a rapidly evolving future for our industry, I have no doubt that Sam’s experience and leadership will help ACI-NA and all of our airports to navigate the unique challenges we’ve encountered in recent years and keep our industry moving forward.”

    “Our industry’s recovery is underway, but a clear path forward remains elusive as we continue to navigate the challenges presented by an ongoing pandemic,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director of the Kelowna International Airport and incoming Chair of ACI-NA.  “But, our industry is proactive and resilient, so I am confident our brightest days are ahead.  I look forward to representing this innovative industry and working alongside my colleagues to advance key priorities over the next two years.”

    Samaddar began his airport career at the Vancouver International Airport in 1988 and began working for the Kelowna International Airport as superintendent of airport operations in 1992. In 2008, he was appointed Airport Director of the Kelowna International Airport. He is also a board member at Tourism Kelowna and Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission

    Additionally, Chellie Cameron, CEO of the Philadelphia International Airport, moved into the Vice Chair role and Lew Bleiweis will become the organization’s Immediate Past Chair.  In addition to welcoming Samaddar, ACI-NA announced the election of several new Board members and Policy Council leadership.

    ACI-NA Board of Directors

    Bryant Francis, Director of Aviation for the Oakland International Airport; Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports for the Sacramento County Airport System; Jason Terreri, Executive Director for the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority; Patrick Wilson, President of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority; and Monica Newhouse-Rodriguez, MBA, Managing Principal at Newhouse and Associates, LLC, were all elected to the ACI-NA Board of Directors.

    Canadian Policy Council

    RJ Steenstra, President and CEO of Fort McMurray Airport Authority, will become Chair of the Canadian Policy Council and a member of the organization’s Executive Committee.  Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority, will become the Vice Chair. Philippe Rainville, President and CEO of Aéroports de Montréal, will become Chair of the Large Airports Caucus.  Gene Cabral, Executive Vice-President of the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, will become the Chair of the Small Airports Caucus.  Reg Wright, President and CEO of the Gander International Airport Authority, will join the Canadian Policy Council.

    U.S. Policy Council

    Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, will become Chair of the U.S. Policy Council and a member of the organization’s Executive Committee.  Bryant Francis, Director of Aviation at Oakland International Airport; Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports for the Sacramento County Airport System; Kim Jones, Airport Director at the Dane County Regional Airport; Huntley Lawrence, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Aviation for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey; Jesus Saenz, Jr., Director of Airports for the San Antonio Airport System; Ben Siegel, Executive Director for the Lee County Port Authority; Tom Jewsbury, Executive Director of the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport; and Monica Newhouse-Rodriguez, Managing Principal at Newhouse and Associates, LLC, join the U.S. Policy Council.

    World Business Partners and Associates Board of Directors

    Brian Reed, Director, Strategic Initiatives for Burns & McDonnell, was elected Chair of ACI-NA’s World Business Partners and Associates Board of Directors and Michael Hotaling, Senior Vice President Aviation Practice Leader for C&S Companies, was elected Vice Chair.  Solomon Wong, President and CEO of InterVISTAS Consulting Inc.; Lysa (Scully) Leiponis, Principal and President of LL Aviation Advisors, LLC; and Pamela Brown, Vice President Business Development for Paradies Lagardère, were elected to the World Business Partners and Associates Board of Directors.

    A complete list of the ACI-NA Board of Directors and leadership is available on the ACI-NA website.

  • International flights resume at Kelowna International Airport: ‘It’s been a long time coming’

    From Global News – link to source story – Thanks to CW

    Darrian Matassa-Fung  Global News | December 16, 2021

    The first international flight to land at the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) touched down Thursday afternoon.

    It’s the first international flight to land in the Okanagan in more than a year and a half.

    “It’s been a long time coming for us, about 20 months,” said Phillip Elchitz, YLW’s senior manager of airport operations.

    “We are really excited to have our first international arrival today.“

    One of those waiting to board the flight to fly south to Washington state is Jeffery Smith.

    He says his family has been waiting for this moment, to take his newborn child to meet his extended family in the U.S. but it’s not without a bit of apprehension.

    “It’s exciting. We haven’t seen family in a long time, and there’s definitely some nerves with that as well with the pandemic and everything,” Smith told Global News while checking in for his flight.

    “But it seems like everyone is handling it really well and we are excited to make this trip.“

    Currently, there is only one international flight coming in and out of Kelowna, a midday flight from Seattle with Alaska Airlines.

    Airport officials said they expect more international flights to resume in the coming months.

    “In the next few months (Alaska Airlines) will be adding an overnight (to Seattle) as well. That’s important because that allows the early departures out of here to get to Seattle, and get the big bank of flights out to the rest of the United States,” said Elchitz.

    “Over the next two months, we’ll also see some sun destinations added. Jan. 12 and 13, WestJet will be flying to Puerto Vallarta and Cancun. In February, we’ll see WestJet fly to San Jose del Cabo, as well.”

    The airport wants to remind travellers to make sure they understand the protocols that are in place for international travel before booking flights.

    “There is an arrival requirement for testing now, “ said Elchitz.

    “Anybody arriving from an international destination will be required to take a PCR test and quarantine until that test comes back negative.“

    However, according to the airport, some may be exempt from testing and quarantining.

    If a traveller is entering Canada from the United States, and has been in America for longer than two weeks, passengers can be choosen at random to do a PCR test and quarantine.

    If a traveller from the USA has not been in America for two weeks prior to their flight, they will have to take a PCR test and quarantine.

    Airport traffic is brisk so far this holiday season. On Thursday, the airport had around 5,000 people pass through, which would be a typical pre-COVID day at YLW.

  • B.C. floods: More flights coming to connect Kelowna, Lower Mainland, minister says

    From Global News – link to video and source story – Thanks to CW

    By Kathy Michaels, Global News | December 14, 2021

    Connectivity between the Okanagan and Lower Mainland is starting to improve, B.C.’s Transportation Minister Rob Fleming said Monday, as road crews work to repair major highways damaged in the November storms.

    Fleming said crews had made significant progress on the Coquihalla Highway over the weekend and by Wednesday, the province will be able to offer a better idea of when the route will reopen again for commercial trucks.

    That potentially could be during the holiday season, but Fleming couldn’t say when.

    He also said the provincial government is working with the airline industry on expanded regional routes.

    “I noticed today that WestJet confirmed increased flights to Kelowna from Abbotsford and we are hearing other carriers expanding their schedule,” he said.

    “Both WestJet and Air Canada also announced price caps on those flights and added service in their offering to people travelling over the holidays. So this is all very good news and we appreciate the airline industry flying aircraft to help people safely travel, friends and family, visit different parts of the province over the holiday season.”

    Michael J. Ballingall, senior vice-president with Big White ski resort, said he has been watching news about both air and road travel closely since storms shut down the route to the Lower Mainland.

    He said he has yet to see evidence of these increased flights, but that he knows more carriers are working through the logistics of creating flights for both Kamloops and Kelowna because there is “huge pent-up demand.”

    “We have a commitment from Air North, Swoop, WestJet and Air Canada that they look at adding extra capacity in Kelowna and Kamloops every day,” Ballingall said.

    “We’re hoping with more air capacity we will see the price come down in air travel.”

    Whether that will help Big White recoup some of the bookings lost in time for the holidays remains to be seen.

    Currently, he said, people are still cancelling for the holidays, and air travel isn’t always the first choice for those looking forward to a ski week.

    Rather, he said, people who live in the Lower Mainland and had thought of travelling to the mountain are debating driving the route through the U.S., up Highway 97, and coming up again through Osoyoos.

    That, he said, is about three hours longer.

    © 2021 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

  • Leaky sprinkler on exterior of Kelowna airport terminal set off fire alarm Saturday morning

    From Castanet.net – link to source story

    Leak sets off fire alarm

    Darren Handschuh – Dec 11, 2021


    Photo: Ryan Neely

    The Kelowna airport terminal was briefly evacuated Saturday morning after a fire alarm went off.

    However, there was no fire.

    Phillip Elchitz, senior airport operations manager, said a sprinkler system pipe on the exterior of the building started to leak, setting off the fire alarm.

    “That caused the system to go into full alarm, which is how it’s designed,” said Elchitz. “We followed protocols and evacuated the facility until we were able to assess the alarm. There was no fire and we are in the process of resuming operations.”

  • Health accreditation for YLW

    Health accreditation for YLW

    From Castanet.net – link to source story

    Cindy White – December 9, 2021


    Photo: ContributedSam Samaddar, Airport Director, and Lori Seeman, Airport Duty Manager, with ACI Airport Health Accreditation Certificate

    It’s an important step in YLW’s efforts to secure more international flights.

    Kelowna International Airport has received Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Health Accreditation.

    It’s reassurance that COVID-19 health and safety measures at the airport are in alignment with industry best practices and the ACI Aviation Business Restart and Recovery guidelines.

    “This accreditation shows the high standards the Kelowna International Airport is meeting around its response to Covid-19,” says Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “I am proud of the dedication the YLW team has to providing a safe experience for all guests. It is essential that the travelling public is confident we are prioritizing their health and safety in everything we do at YLW.”

    Most airports in major Canadian cities are ACI Airport Health accredited. Kelowna is one of three airports in British Columbia to receive the designation, along with Vancouver International Airport and Victoria International Airport.

    Some of the COVID-19 measures YLW has taken since July of 2020 include offering on-site PCR testing, making vaccination mandatory for staff and travellers, the installation of protective barriers around customer service areas and self-serve check-in kiosks, and floor decals and announcements to help people maintain physical distance.

    The airport uses a layered, risk-based approach, and will continue to add to protocols to ensure the safety of employees and the travelling public.

    You can find out more about the safety protocols here.