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Tag: Prince George YXS

  • Central Mountain Air Celebrates One Year of Service Connecting Calgary and Prince George

    SMITHERS, BC, March 3, 2026 – Central Mountain Air (CMA) is proud to celebrate one year of service between Calgary and Prince George. Since launching this important regional link, CMA has provided passengers with reliable, non-stop air service and enhanced connectivity between Alberta and Northern British Columbia.

    Operating four days a week, non-stop flights between Calgary (YYC) and Prince George (YXS) operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, the route has strengthened business, tourism, and essential travel ties between the two regions. In addition to direct service, the flight schedule offers convenient onward connections to Terrace (YXT) and Fort Nelson (YYE), further improving access across Northern British Columbia.

    To mark this milestone, Central Mountain Air is offering 20% off flights to/from Calgary using promo code YYC1Year. The promotion is valid for bookings made until March 7, 2026. Full promotional details are available at flycma.com/promo.

    Passengers departing from Calgary benefit from CMA’s private departure lounge, conveniently located at 5436–11 St NE. This exclusive facility provides a streamlined and comfortable pre-flight experience, featuring shorter lines, personalized service, and a relaxed lounge environment—allowing travelers to avoid the congestion of traditional terminal departures.

    “This route has quickly become an important connection for both business and leisure travelers,” said Doug McCrea, President of Central Mountain Air. “Over the past year, we’ve been proud to provide dependable, personalized service between Calgary and Prince George while improving connectivity to communities such as Terrace and Fort Nelson. We are grateful for the strong support from our passengers and partners and look forward to continuing to strengthen regional air access in Western Canada.”

    Since 1987, Central Mountain Air has been committed to safely connecting communities across Canada with dependable schedules and customer-focused service. The Calgary–Prince George route reflects CMA’s continued investment in regional connectivity and its dedication to supporting economic growth and community access throughout the region.

    “Central Mountain Air’s Calgary service has played an important role in strengthening economic and community connections over the past year,” said Geoff Ritchie, President and CEO of the Prince George Airport Authority. “Reliable regional air service supports workforce mobility, business development, and tourism across Northern British Columbia. We value CMA’s continued commitment to serving Prince George and the broader region.”

    Flights between Calgary and Prince George can be booked by visiting flycma.com, by calling CMA Reservations at 1-888-865-8585, or through a preferred travel agent.

    About Central Mountain Air
    Established in 1987, Central Mountain Air (CMA) is a privately owned and operated Canadian company offering scheduled, charter, and cargo flights throughout Canada. CMA operates a fleet of 30+ aircraft, which includes Beechcraft 1900Ds, Dornier 328s, De Havilland Dash-8: 100, 300, and 400 aircraft in a variety of configurations(Cargo, Combi, Executive, Passenger) with headquarters in Smithers, BC and operational facilities in Kelowna, Vancouver, Smithers, Prince George, Calgary, Edmonton, Hamilton, Winnipeg, Montreal, and Blanc-Sablon. In addition to its proven track record and long history of providing air transport services to the resources, mining, and construction sectors, CMA provides safe, reliable, and cost-effective air services (passenger, workforce logistics, and cargo) to the organizations and communities it serves.

    To learn more, visit www.flycma.com

  • Wander West, Edmontonians: WestJet adds two domestic routes from Edmonton International Airport

    Airline also increases capacity to Vancouver Island and Northwest Territories

    EDMONTON, AB, May 19, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced the return of non-stop service between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Kamloops, B.C. as well as the introduction of all-new service to Prince George, B.C. Beginning the first week of July, WestJet Encore will operate the routes twice per week throughout the peak summer travel season onboard the De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) aircraft.

    “Restoring service to Kamloops and introducing service to Prince George is a direct reflection of Canadians’ interest in exploring their own backyard this summer,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “With more flights and more seats in key Western Canadian markets, we’re giving Canadians better access to the destinations they rely on for business, leisure and visiting loved ones.”

    New routesPeak frequencyStart dateAircraft
    Edmonton – Kamloops2x weeklyJuly 6, 2025Q400
    Edmonton – Prince George2x weeklyJuly 5, 2025Q400

    In addition to the new seasonal routes, WestJet has increased capacity on two key domestic routes from Edmonton. This summer, WestJet will offer service to Nanaimo, B.C. on the Boeing 737, more than doubling seat capacity. The airline is also offering service between Yellowknife and Edmonton on the Boeing 737 twice per week. Historically, both routes only operated on the Q400.

    RoutePeak frequencyStart dateAircraft
    Edmonton – Yellowknife4x weeklyJuly 6, 2025Boeing 737/Q400
    Edmonton – Nanaimo2x weeklyJuly 5, 2025Boeing 737

    Additional quotes

    “YEG welcomes more flights to more places, celebrating WestJet’s dedication to regional connectivity and additional options for Canadians to explore our beautiful country,” said James Jackson, Vice President, Air Service & Business Development, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “Non-stop flights between Edmonton and Kamloops and Prince George offers travellers from British Columbia convenient access to world-class experiences and attractions in the Edmonton region, and connectivity to YEG’s vast network of global destinations. Likewise, people from Edmonton and surrounding communities can seamlessly reach more of British Columbia’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture without the lengthy road trip.”

    “We’re thrilled to welcome this new route connecting Prince George to Edmonton, expanding travel options for our community and strengthening our region’s accessibility,” said Sabrina Angus, Interim President and CEO of the Prince George Airport Authority. “This service not only opens the door for more business and leisure travel but also reinforces our commitment to connecting Northern BC to key hubs across Canada.”

    “As a gateway to the City of Kamloops and the Thompson Nicola region, Kamloops Airport is very pleased to welcome back WestJet’s service to Edmonton,” said Jim Moroz, Managing Director, Kamloops Airport. “Edmonton has long been a popular destination for our community, and the service comes just in time for travelers on both ends of the route to reconnect with family and friends during the summer months. We look forward to working with WestJet and our tourism partners to make this service a success.”

    “We’re pleased to see this increased investment in connectivity between Yellowknife and Edmonton. The move to add additional capacity reflects growing demand in our region and strengthens an essential link for business, tourism, and northern communities. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership and welcoming more travellers to and from YZF,” said Randy Straker, Regional Airport Manager, Yellowknife Airport.

    “We are very excited that WestJet is increasing the capacity for its route between YCD – Nanaimo and YEG – Edmonton this summer providing our customers with enhanced services on a 737 aircraft to Vancouver Island and Edmonton during the popular tourism season,” said Dave Devana, President & CEO Nanaimo Airport Commission.

    About WestJet     

    WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.   

    As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.   

    Learn more about WestJet at westjet.com/en-ca/who-we-are (also available in French)

  • Flair Airlines connects Canadians and Americans with Canada’s first direct flights to Tucson, Arizona

    • Flair Airlines, Canada’s third largest domestic airline, is excited to connect Canadians and Americans with Canada’s first direct route to Tucson, Arizona
    • Weekly service from Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Prince George, London, and Windsor to Tucson begins November 30, 2022
    • One-way fares starting from $99 CAD

    November 30, 2022, Edmonton, Alberta – Flair Airlines, Canada’s everyday low fare airline, kicks off its inaugural flights from Edmonton and Fort McMurray today with the start of service to Tucson, Arizona. This week, Flair launches five inaugural routes across Canada, departing from Edmonton (YEG), Fort McMurray (YMM), Prince George (YXS), London (YXU), and Windsor (YQG), marking the first direct flights from Canada to Tucson, arriving at Tucson International Airport (TUS).

    “Expanding service for more Canadian cities to fly to Tucson is a critical part of our overarching mission to make travel more accessible to Canadians. We believe Canadians deserve more affordable and competitive airfare to stay connected with the people and places they love,” said Stephen Jones, CEO, Flair Airlines. “We are delighted to launch our inaugural flights and connect Canadians and Americans with Canada’s first direct route to Tucson.”

    “As Flair Airlines’ hub and home base, we’ve seen their growth and success first-hand in the industry, and we’re excited to host Canada’s first non-stop flight to Tucson. Flair’s desire to serve new markets provides critical access for business and tourism and showcases Edmonton and our region as a great place to be. We are glad to see Flair offering more flights to more places and continuing to connect our region with the endless places there are to explore,” said, Myron Keehn, Vice President of Air Service, Business Development, ESG and Stakeholder Relations, Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

    “We’re thrilled to welcome back Flair Airlines to YMM, with non-stop flights to Tucson, Arizona,” said Denean Robinson, CFO and Interim President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “This new air service affords residents a quick, inexpensive sun destination and gives Tucsonans the opportunity to explore the many unique experiences Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo has to offer.”

    “A direct flight to a new destination not previously served from Windsor, this is what Windsor and Essex County residents have wanted – more choice and more value to exciting places,” said Drew Dilkens, Windsor Mayor and YQG Board Chair.

    “Flair has been a fantastic partner for YQG and the Windsor-Essex region, and we celebrate the Windsor to Tucson inaugural flight,” said Mark Galvin, CEO, Windsor Airport.

    “The Prince George Airport Authority is thrilled to welcome Flair Airlines to YXS in an international capacity. This inaugural flight to Tucson is an exciting opportunity to offer a non-stop sunspot destination to Prince George and the surrounding communities. We are looking forward to a successful operation this winter, and for many winters to come,” said Gordon Duke, CEO, Prince George Airport Authority.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Flair’s inaugural flight at London International Airport, flying nonstop to Tucson, Arizona,” said Scott McFadzean, President and CEO of the London International Airport. “We know the London region has been eagerly awaiting more airline service and are excited about the new low-cost flight options that Flair is bringing to London.”

    Tucson, Arizona offers a signature blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural attractions. Travellers will enjoy warm weather and scenic views of the Sonoran Desert 365-days a year.

    Tucson is known for its incredible culinary heritage. In 2015 it was named a UNESCO city of gastronomy, catering to a multitude of tastes and boasting a tapestry of Indigenous cuisine and Mexican fare. From ranches to resorts, Tucson is home to a variety of unforgettable accommodations. Notably, the region boasts more than 40 golf courses, welcoming golfers of all skill levels.

    One-way fares, including taxes and fees, begin at $99 CAD to Tucson. There are limited seats and availability for the fares. All routes are available for booking at www.flyflair.com.

    About Flair Airlines

    Flair Airlines is Canada’s leading low-fare airline and its greenest airline, on a mission to provide 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 over 30 cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com.

  • Pacific Coastal Winter Holiday Schedule is Now Available

    14 October 2022

    More flight options & flexibility to help plan your holiday season. 

    Additional flights are available to destinations like Powell River, Trail, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Victoria, Kelowna and Prince George.  Learn more about the holiday schedule flight options at https://flights.pacificcoastal.com/en/winter-holiday-schedule

    From December 16, 2022 to January 03, 2023

    • Up to four daily flights between Kelowna and Victoria
    • Daily flights between Prince George and Victoria
    • Additional daily flight between Cranbrook and Vancouver
    • Up to four daily flights between Powell River and Vancouver
    • Additional second flight on Saturdays between Trail and Vancouver
    • New flight between Cranbrook and Kelowna (starts 14 Nov 2022)
  • Government of Canada makes important investments at Prince George Airport

    Government of Canada makes important investments at Prince George Airport

    Transport Canada

    PRINCE GEORGE, BC, July 20, 2022 /CNW/ – Canadians rely on safe and well-maintained local and regional airports to keep their communities connected. These airports also support essential air services including air ambulance services, search and rescue, forest fire response, and delivering essential goods to communities. As Canada works towards recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, investments in our airports continue to be crucial to maintain the safety and security of our transportation sector.

    The Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, today announced that the Government of Canada is investing more than $1.7 million in the Prince George Airport through Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain important airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Prince George and surrounding communities.

    The Prince George Airport also received over $1.4 million from Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program for the purchase of a 4×4 snowplow truck and a wet/dry material spreader. This equipment will help the airport maintain safe operations for aircraft, passengers, crews and airport workers by keeping runways and taxiways clear of snow and ice. The funding will also support the expansion of a shelter to house and protect the airport’s aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle from the elements, ensuring it is ready for immediate use in case of an emergency.

    These investments are in addition to the over $1.4 million in Airports Capital Assistance Program funding provided to the airport in May 2021 for the purchase of an aircraft rescue firefighting vehicle and a runway ice sweeper.

    Quotes

    “As we move forward with the safe and gradual return of air travel, it is our government’s priority to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector that keeps travellers and workers safe. These critical investments will allow the Prince George Airport to have the infrastructure and tools needed to help re-invigorate the aviation industry in the communities it serves, and allow Canadians to feel safe and secure when they travel.”

    The Honourable Omar Alghabra
    Minister of Transport

    Quick Facts

    • First introduced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Airport Relief Fund 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.
    • As announced in the Fall Economic Statement 2020, the Airports Capital Assistance Program received a one-time funding top-up of $186 million over two years.
    • The Fall Economic Statement 2020 also announced the temporary expansion of eligibility for the Airports Capital Assistance Program to allow National Airports System airports with less than one million annual passengers in 2019 to apply for funding under the Program in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.
    • The eligible National Airports System airports are: Gander; Charlottetown; Saint John; Fredericton; Moncton; Thunder Bay; London; and Prince George.
    • Since the Airports Capital Assistance Program started in 1995, the Government of Canada has invested over $1.2 billion for 1,215 projects at 199 local, regional and National Airports System airports across the country. Funded projects include runway and taxiway repairs/rehabilitation, lighting enhancements, purchasing snow clearing equipment and firefighting vehicles and installing wildlife control fencing.

    Associated Links

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

  • Flair Airlines Establishes Winter Base in Tucson Arizona, Bringing Non-stop Sun at Affordable Prices to Underserved Canadian Markets

    • Flair Airlines, Visit Tucson, and Tucson International Airport announce long-term partnership to connect more Canadians to Arizona
    • Service to Tucson begins in November and December from five Canadian airports, including Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Prince George, and Windsor
    • The Tucson winter base furthers Flair’s mission of providing affordable leisure travel to Canadians
    • To celebrate its first week of sales, one-way fares on Flair flights to Tucson, including taxes and fees, begin at $99

    Edmonton, Alberta, March 29, 2022 – Flair Airlines, Canada’s everyday low fare airline, is excited to announce a long-term partnership with Tucson, Arizona to connect underserved Canadian communities with affordable, non-stop, winter flights to sunshine and warmth. As the first step in the partnership, Flair will overnight an aircraft in Tucson next winter and today is opening sales for five new routes: Edmonton International Airport, Fort McMurray International Airport, Lethbridge Airport, Prince George Airport, and Windsor International Airport to Tucson International Airport.

    “Basing winter operations in Tucson, Arizona offers an exciting new option for Canadians. We know that Canadians in communities across the country will be keen to soak up the winter sun in Tucson. With consistent service for years to come, we think this is the beginning of an excellent yearly tradition for Canadians,” said Garth Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Flair Airlines. “For too long, many communities in Canada have been without service to warm weather destinations. Flair is looking forward to stimulating new demand with our everyday low fares.”

    Tucson, Arizona

    “We are excited about the many benefits to our community through this relationship with Flair,” said Danette Bewley, President and CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority. “Not only have we found a way to achieve a long-time goal of adding nonstop flights to and from Canada, TUS will be the only Arizona – or U.S., for that matter – destination from four of those airports. We look forward to welcoming and introducing Canadians to our beautiful region.” Bewley added, “In addition to new air service, there is tremendous added economic potential for Southern Arizonans and Canadians to develop new connections and relationships.”

    Edmonton, Alberta

    “Flair’s continued growth and success is a great story for aviation and for the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Adding another non-stop sunny destination and a US winter base in Tuscon is a great complement to Flair’s headquarters at Edmonton International Airport,” said Myron Keehn, Vice President, Air Service and Business Development, Edmonton International Airport. “Congratulations on your continued growth and we look forward to the service starting later this year.”

    Fort McMurray, Alberta

    “This announcement is one we’re extremely excited about, and are confident the community will be too,” said RJ Steenstra, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “We’re pleased to welcome back Flair Airlines to YMM and will continue exploring new destination opportunities as we work to rebuild route capacity.”

    Lethbridge, Alberta

    “The City of Lethbridge has been proactively investing in our Airport to position us for an opportunity just like this and we are thrilled to welcome Flair Airlines to our community,” said Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “We’ve heard from our residents that they want a sun destination from the Lethbridge Airport and Arizona was one of the top places they want to visit. I’m excited for this new partnership and I’m certain this will be a hot ticket for all southern Albertans.”

    Prince George, British Columbia

    “We are very excited to see this air service option for both Canadian and American travelers” says Prince George Airport Authority’s President and CEO Gordon Duke. “Tucson offers a warm getaway for Canadians during the winter and also provides an opportunity for Americans to experience ‘Bucket List’ winter activities here in and around Prince George. We are looking forward to continuing to develop our relationship with Flair and connecting the world to our region.”

    Windsor, Ontario

    “We are excited to welcome Flair Airlines to YQG – Windsor International Airport,” said Mark Galvin, CEO, Windsor Airport “and are thrilled to add a direct flight from Windsor to the Sun Corridor of the United States.”

    All flights to Tucson are non-stop and offer a quick and easy way to explore Arizona. There is no shortage of national parks, such as Saguaro National Park, and natural attractions to explore around Tucson, as well as vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants.

    To celebrate its first week of sales, one-way fares on Flair flights to Tucson, including taxes and fees, begin at $99 from Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Prince George, and Windsor. There are limited seats and availability for the fares. All routes are available for booking at flyflair.com. Flair looks forward to further connecting communities in Canada with non-stop service to exciting leisure destinations.

    About Flair Airlines

    Flair Airlines is Canada’s leading low-fare airline and its greenest airline, on a mission to provide 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 over 30 cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. For more information, please visit flyflair.com.

    New Winter Routes

    • Tucson (TUS) – Edmonton (YEG): 2x weekly, effective November 30, 2022 – March 24, 2023
    • Tucson (TUS) – Fort McMurray (YMM): 2x weekly, effective November 30, 2022 – March 22, 2023
    • Tucson (TUS) – Lethbridge (YQL): 1x weekly, effective December 1, 2022 – March 23, 2023
    • Tucson (TUS) – Prince George (YXS): 1x weekly, effective December 2, 2022 – March 24, 2023
    • Tucson (TUS) – Windsor (YQG): 1x weekly, effective December 1, 2022 – March 23, 2023

  • A small B.C. airport could be the first in the world with a pot shop

    From CTV News – link to source story🔗

    cannabis

    Kendra Mangione, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Reporter and Producer | January 10, 2022

    A small airport in British Columbia may be the world’s first to open a cannabis retail store.

    If a business licence is granted, those passing through the airport in Prince George may be able to pick up some bud with their baggage by the end of the year.

    According to the Prince George Airport Authority, the business is called Copilot, and is “pioneering cannabis for travel.”

    The company has applied for a licence to operate at YXS. The PGAA said in a news release last week that if all goes to plan, Copilot will be the first cannabis retail store in an airport terminal anywhere in the world.

    According to the airport authority, the company’s been working with regulators on the provincial and federal level on its licence, and now it’s waiting on approval from the city.

    Council is expected to give the licence application a first read on Monday.

    “We see YXS as the perfect location to launch our initial store and fulfill our mission of making travel a less stressful and more enjoyable experience for our customers,” Copilot co-founders Reed Horton and Owen Ritz said in a statement through the airport.

    While access to airport cannabis may make travelling less stressful for some, it could land others in trouble.

    It is illegal to take cannabis across federal borders, meaning anyone on an international flight can’t pack it on their departing or arrival flights. 

    Canadians travelling within the country can bring cannabis in their carry-on, as long as the amount isn’t greater than 30 grams, and they’re of legal age in the provinces they’re travelling into and out of.

    The legal age is 19 in most Canadian provinces and territories, but it’s a year younger in Alberta, and two years older in Quebec. 

  • Pacific Coast Airlines announces Summer 2022 Schedule

    Thanks to MW

    30 October 2021

    Check Out our Summer 2022 Flight Schedule

    Take advantage of additional flight options. Book your summer trip today.

    Origin and DestinationSunMonTueWedThuFriSatWeekly FlightsHighlights
    Vancouver – Victoria4x4x4x4x4x4x1x21 Improved minimum connection times between YYJ and other destinations
    Vancouver – Powell River4x4x4x4x4x4x2x26
    Vancouver – Bella Coola1x1x1x1x1x1x1x7New daily service
    Vancouver – Trail2x2x2x2x2x2x1x13
    Vancouver – Williams Lake2x1x2x1x2x1x1x10
    Vancouver – Comox2x2x2x2x2x2x0x20All non-stop flights (no more stops in YBL )
    Vancouver – Campbell River3x3x3x3x3x3x2x12All non-stop flights (no more stops in YQQ)
    Vancouver – Port Hardy1x2x1x2x1x2x1x10Evening flight Sunday to Friday will operate on Saab
    Vancouver – Bella Bella1x1x1x1x1x1x1x7New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
    Vancouver – Tofino1x1x1x1x1x1x1x7Flights will operate on Saab, Sunday to Friday. New Saturday service.
    Victoria – Kelowna2x2x1x2x2x2x0x11
    Victoria – Prince George1x1x1x1x1x1x0x6
    Vancouver – Cranbrook1x1x1x1x1x1x0x6
    Vancouver – Masset1x1x1x1x1x1x1x7New daily service – all flights will operate on Saab
    Vancouver – Penticton1x1x1x1x1x1x1x7New daily service
    Vancouver – Kamloops1x1x1x1x1x1x0x6

    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.

  • Eleven regional airports in British Columbia receiving up to $11.7 million to maintain regional connectivity and jobs

    Targeted Government of Canada support will be provided by Western Economic Diversification Canada

    VANCOUVER, BC, July 30, 2021 /CNW/ – Regional air transportation is crucial to ensure merchandise circulates, supply chains are maintained, and regional economic growth continues. The pandemic has had major impacts on regional air transportation ecosystems, affecting economies, communities, and local businesses.

    BC's regional airports get an economic boost (CNW Group/Western Economic Diversification Canada)
    BC’s regional airports get an economic boost (CNW Group/Western Economic Diversification Canada)

    The Government of Canada’s Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI), launched in March 2021, fosters access to air transportation and supports regional ecosystems. In particular, it enables regional air carriers and airports to remain operational in these difficult times and to continue to contribute to regional economic growth, while adapting to new post-COVID-19 realities and requirements.

    B.C. airports to benefit from funding

    With this in mind, Terry Beech, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (B.C.), on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, announced $11,721,721 in RATI funding for 11 regional airports in B.C.

    This funding will enable these airports to overcome challenges that were brought on by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Regional air transportation is key to the economic development of communities and businesses across Canada. Since it helps draw Canadians to rural and remote communities to work and raise their families, while also providing reliable connectivity with urban centres, it plays a crucial role in a just, inclusive recovery for all, throughout the country.

    Quotes

    “It is important to protect our regional air transportation for the thousands of workers employed by this sector and for the many businesses and communities that depend on it. Air connectivity makes our regions accessible to Canadians who want to settle there and is key in moving our businesses’ products to their destination markets. That’s why, as part of our plan for a strong economic recovery, our government supports this connectivity, indispensable to healthy, inclusive growth.”

    –       The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada

    “Regional airports and infrastructure are critical components of the B.C. economy, both for trade and for the travel that many Canadians are starting to look forward to as we emerge from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will go a long way towards getting these assets back on their feet and ready to deliver on the needs of British Columbians as we look towards a brighter future.”

    –       Terry Beech, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (B.C.)

    “Victoria International Airport is a vital economic generator for the Greater Victoria Region. The pandemic has been financially devastating to the airport industry and aviation sector as a whole. This funding announcement is welcome news which will assist YYJ to reinstate lost air service, attract new air service, build passenger demand, and continue to operate a safe and efficient airport with world class safety and health standards. Air connectivity is a key to economic prosperity and we look forward to help building back the visitor economy.”  

    –       Geoff Dickson, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority

    “We are grateful for this funding. It is essential to help continue our operations and ensure that we continue to be the gateway to Northern British Columbia. The Prince George Airport is a hub for not only passenger services but also medevac, RCMP, aerial search and rescue, and wildfire fighting services for Northern and remote communities.”

    –       Gordon Duke, President and CEO, Prince George Airport Authority

    Projects being funded:

    Legal NameCityFunding
    Prince Rupert Airport AuthorityPrince Rupert$503,427
    Comox Valley Airport CommissionComox$1,094,406
    Victoria Airport AuthoritySidney$2,998,672
    Central Coast Regional DistrictBella Coola$328,322
    Prince George Airport Authority Inc.Prince George$1,297,965
    Kamloops Airport Authority SocietyKamloops$1,256,378
    North Peace Airport SocietyFort St. John$1,212,750
    The Corporation of the Town of GoldenGolden$120,000
    Terrace-Kitimat Airport SocietyTerrace$1,183,053
    Nanaimo Airport CommissionCassidy$1,380,916
    Nanaimo Port AuthorityNanaimo$345,832
    Total:$11,721,721

    Quick facts

    • The RATI, administered by the regional development agencies (RDAs), has a national budget of $206 million.
    • The Initiative supports regional air ecosystems—which include regional air carriers and airports, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises and non-profit organizations—in developing and implementing enhanced services for improved regional connectivity.
    • The RATI complements measures implemented by Transport Canada.

    Associated links

  • Uncertified aviation fuel trucks pulled from service at Prince George Airport

    From CBC New – link to source story

    WestJet flight from Prince George to Vancouver had to stop to refuel in Kamloops 

    Kate Partridge ·  Jul 23, 2021

    The Prince George International Airport where uncertified aviation fuel trucks were recently pulled from service. (Andrew Kurjata/CBC)

    A Transport Canada inspection at the Prince George Airport discovered multiple trucks being illegally used to refuel planes.

    The trucks, which need to be licensed to transport dangerous goods like jet fuel, were pulled from service Wednesday after the agency found they were operating without proper certification.

    The move resulted in a temporary loss of fuelling service at the largest airport in northern B.C. WestJet confirmed that a flight from Prince George to Vancouver had to stop to refuel in Kamloops. 

    Prince George Airport Authority president Gordon Duke also confirmed the disruption but said flights can now refuel as expected. He says the airport authority is “working with all agencies involved to ensure that we continue fuelling operations here.” 

    Fuelling services to the Prince George airport have been provided by third party operator Airconsol Aviation since 2007. The company did not respond to requests for comment.  

    In a statement to CBC, Transport Canada confirmed the trucks had been detained and will need to be recertified before they can be put back to work.