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Pacific Coastal Airlines Announces New Service to Kamloops

pca.png?w=434

January 20th, 2021

Richmond, BC – Pacific Coastal Airlines is pleased to announce a new non-stop service between Vancouver International Airport South Terminal (YVR) and Kamloops Airport (YKA) effective Tuesday, February 9, 2021.

pacific-coastal-airlines-b1900-aircraft- Beech 1900D Aircraft (Courtesy of Pacific Coastal Airlines)

The 50-minute flight will operate 6 days a week between Vancouver and Kamloops. Flights will be offered Sunday to Friday on the 19-passenger pressurized turboprop Beech 1900D aircraft. The 1900D offers comfortable seating, 6-foot cabin height, and generous cargo capacity.

Customers can also benefit from convenient connecting flight options to reach other communities in British Columbia such as Victoria, B.C.

ROUTE FREQUENCY FLIGHT # DEPARTING ARRIVING EFFECTIVE
Vancouver to Kamloops Sunday to Friday #1205 2:35 p.m. 3:25 p.m. February 9, 2021
Kamloops to Vancouver Sunday to Friday #1206 3:55 p.m. 4:45 p.m. February 9, 2021

“We want to ensure that the community of Kamloops maintains air service to Vancouver to support the movement of essential workers, time-sensitive cargo, and assist those travelling for medical appointments at this time,” said Johnathan Richardson, Vice President of Commercial Services. “Pacific Coastal Airlines is proud to expand the destinations we serve in the Thompson Okanagan region and we will deliver reliable, convenient, and affordable flights that customers value.”

“Kamloops Airport is pleased to welcome Pacific Coastal Airlines to our airport and our community. Passengers using this important Kamloops-Vancouver service can expect a safe and healthy experience both at the airport and on board with this valued airline partner,” said Ed Ratuski, Managing Director, Kamloops Airport.

“We are delighted that Pacific Coastal Airlines will become our newest service partner at YKA.  I encourage local residents to make use of this important connection to Vancouver for all their essential travel needs during this pandemic period and beyond,” said Mayor Ken Christian.

Introductory fares are now on sale as low as $150 one-way, per passenger (inclusive of fees, surcharges, and tax). To book this new service visit www.pacificcoastal.com or speak to your travel agent.

Pacific Coastal Airlines offers air cargo service to 17 destinations throughout their network to transport time-sensitive cargo. With various levels of shipping priority, they offer shipping solutions tailored to customer requirements at competitive rates.

Pacific Coastal Airlines has also adopted additional safety measures to ensure the health and wellbeing of staff and customers. The measures include enhanced aircraft sanitation practices, physical distancing at airport facilities, reduced contact points, and the requirement for all customers to travel with a face mask and answer health check questions before boarding. Learn more about the additional safety measures online.

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Government of Canada announces agreement with Government of Ontario to support essential air access to remote communities

Transport Canada

OTTAWA, Jan. 21, 2021 /CNW/ – The COVID-19 pandemic is having a significant impact on remote communities that depend on small air carriers for essential goods, services, and for access in and out of the community. As the pandemic continues to evolve, the Government of Canada is working with partners, including provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous partners, and the air industry to address the unique needs of these communities.

Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, announced a new agreement with the Government of Ontario to support essential air access to remote communities.

The Government of Canada is contributing up to $11,134,000 for air services to remote communities to cover the period of July 1 to December 31, 2020. The Government of Ontario is investing $14.2 million to operate remote airports in 2020/21, including an additional $4 million this year to ensure continued safe operations during the pandemic.

Under this agreement, the Government of Ontario will allocate funding to air operators to ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to these communities.

Quotes

“While we continue to work together to limit the spread of COVID-19, we must also ensure remote communities continue to have the air connectivity they need for essential goods and services, travel and business. This agreement with the Government of Ontario will allow for reliable air services to keep remote communities in Ontario connected to the rest of the country.”

The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport

“Ontario’s small air carriers play an essential role in connecting northern and remote communities with goods and critical services. Today’s announcement builds on our government’s ongoing investment and support through our remote and northern airports program, demonstrating our continued commitment to supporting communities in Northern Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.”

The Honourable Caroline Mulroney
Minister of Transportation
Government of Ontario

“Small air carriers provide remote northern First Nations communities with a vital connection to critical supplies and essential services, including health care. This funding will help ensure the unique and immediate needs of these communities are continuously met during COVID-19.”

The Honourable Greg Rickford
Minister of Indigenous Affairs
Government of Ontario

Quick facts

  • Additional funding could be provided and will depend on the needs of communities and the pace of recovery of air travel into remote communities.
  • Remote communities are those that rely on air service as the only year-round mode of transportation.
  • There are 34 remote communities in Northern Ontario, 28 of which do not have year-round road access and rely on small commercial air carriers for essential services and goods..
  • Some communities may have limited access to seasonal ice roads or long and unreliable gravel roads.

Associated Links

 

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West Wind Aviation, Transwest Air to fly under new name

From Saskatoon StarPhoenix – link to source story

The two carriers will rebrand themselves under a single banner as Rise Air.

Saskatoon StarPhoenix  •  Jan 22, 2021

WestWindAviation.jpeg?quality=90&strip=a A member of the ground crew personnel readies a West Wind Aviation plane at the Shell Aero Centre for a flight to Saskatoon. PHOTO BY DON HEALY /Regina Leader-Post

The two air carriers that serve northern Saskatchewan will take on a new name and logo amid a consolidation of their businesses.

West Wind Aviation and Transwest Air already shared a parent company in West Wind Aviation Group. A media release from Transwest Air announced that the two companies will rebrand as Rise Air, pending regulatory approvals, and will no longer have separate operating certificates.

Outgoing President and CEO Stephen Smith was quoted in the media release announcing the rebrand saying the new name was picked from employee submissions, with the new logo also drawn up by a worker at the company.

The company previously announced that Smith would be replaced as President and CEO by Derek Nice effective Feb. 1.  Smith will stay on as chairman of the company’s board of directors.

Nice will take over as CEO, having previously served in high-level positions with air carriers based in Quebec, and having most recently served as managing director and CEO of Air Vanuatu.

The rebranding of West Wind and Transwest planes and other equipment to the new Rise Air colours and logo is expected to happen gradually. In the release, Smith said the company wants to keep costs down, so expects to swap out the logos “organically” as things need replacing.

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Physics takes over, a void is  / was there to fill:

Cape Breton aviation company hopes to fill void in the sky

From CBC News – link to source story

With Air Canada and WestJet no longer flying into Sydney airport, Celtic Air Services is ramping up charters

Tom Ayers · CBC News · Posted: Feb 12, 2021

dave-morgan-celtic-air.jpg Celtic Air Services president Dave Morgan says with the major airlines scaling back flights in Atlantic Canada, now is the time to launch an airplane charter service in Cape Breton. (Brent Kelloway/CBC)

A Cape Breton company is hoping to take advantage of a market opportunity after two major airlines scaled back scheduled flights in Atlantic Canada.

Celtic Air Services took over operations at the Allan J. MacEachen Airport in Port Hawkesbury, N.S., in 2017 and began offering helicopter tours in the region two years later.

The company recently bought a Quebec-based airplane charter business to add to its growing list of services.

“The major airlines pulling out of a lot of spots and cutting down on their regional flights definitely played into our hands,” said Celtic Air president Dave Morgan. “Definitely good luck and good timing.”

WestJet suspended many flights last fall and Air Canada soon followed suit. Both cited lack of demand as passenger traffic dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since January, neither airline has flown out of the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport.

celtic-air-axair-plane.jpg Last summer, Celtic Air Services bought AxAir Aviation of Quebec, which comes with three full-time staff and a Cessna airplane that seats up to five passengers. (Brent Kelloway/CBC)

Morgan said he had always planned to add airplane charters to his business, but the lack of scheduled flights in the region created an opening he couldn’t pass up.

 “We’re a Cape Breton company so for now, we’re eyeing up Cape Breton airports, be it Sydney and Hawkesbury for now,” he said.

“In the summer, we can get into some of the smaller airports, as well.”

Celtic Air has nine employees. Last summer, the company bought AxAir Aviation, which comes with three full-time employees and a Cessna airplane that seats five passengers.

Morgan said the pandemic has slowed his business plans a little. Pilots had to go to the United States for training on flight simulators and they are now finishing ground school at the Port Hawkesbury airport.

The plane arrived in Cape Breton on Thursday and Morgan said he hopes to be up and running in a month.

He said the market opportunity already exists and he expects to be flying into northern Labrador, Quebec, Ontario, Atlantic Canada and the eastern U.S.

Already planning growth

“Right now, there’s huge troubles for folks that work away and folks that work throughout Atlantic Canada,” said Morgan.

“The drive from Sydney to Saint John, New Brunswick, is a long one for an engineering firm that’s sending workers back and forth on a project each week, and without connectivity from the airlines, we think the charter air is going to be an option for them.”

Morgan said he’s already planning to add another plane and more pilots as business takes off.

“The goal is definitely to add to the fleet and consider where the market leads us as we go. We definitely think that it’s going to be a bigger plane next,” he said.

 

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Medicine Hat airport loses commercial flight activity — for now

 

Facility remains open for flight school, charter planes

CBC News · Posted: Apr 05, 2021 10:42 AM MT | Last Updated: 34 minutes ago
 
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The Medicine Hat Regional Airport has gone quiet after both Air Canada, and now Westjet have pulled commercial flights temporarily. (City of Medicine Hat)
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The Medicine Hat Regional Airport will no longer have any commercial flight activity, after two of its airlines pulled flights temporarily.

WestJet's last flight was a week ago and Air Canada pulled its domestic flights in March of last year.

 

Airport manager Jeff Huntus says he is disappointed but not surprised. 

"To put it in perspective, we did in 2019, 75,000 passengers. So far in 2021, we've done about 200 passengers," Huntus said. "If we continue to fly empty airplanes, airlines go bankrupt."

WestJet pulled its flights from the airport last week but said they will return by June. 

There has been no word on when Air Canada will resume service to the southeastern Alberta city.

Huntus said it is easier to come back from suspended flights, than from commercial air bankruptcies.

"People understand why it's happening," he said. "But I think there is a great deal of pent-up demand and when things do turn around, I'm looking forward to a pretty significant increase in activity."

Airport remains active

The airport will remain open and active. Huntus said it plays a big role in the community, even during the quiet days of the pandemic.

"There's other activity. There's still private pilots and recreational aviation, corporate aircraft, charters, businessmen and women flying in from across Canada to conduct business," he said.

Medicine Hat is a medevac hub for southern Alberta.

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The airport is also used by the Super T Aviation flight school, which is accepting new students, owner Terri Super said.

While it may be a tough time to think about getting into aviation, Super said she predicts charter flights becoming more popular.

"I think we will see more expansion of charter over the next little while, people can get on a charter aircraft and be in their own cohort."

With files from Helen Pike and Natalie Valleau

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$5 million to Air Tunilik to support and improve air service north of the 49th parallel

QUÉBEC, April 8, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ – The Minister of Tourism, Caroline Proulx, is pleased to announce the allocation of $5 million of financial assistance to Air Tunilik in order to support its expansion project, which will ensure better air services for tourists wishing to visit northern Québec.

The Minister made the announcement today, accompanied by the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister responsible for the Côte-Nord region, Jonatan Julien, and the President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Tunilik, Simon Contant. On the same occasion, the two Ministers announced $8 million of support for the creation of an incubator-accelerator, which will have the objective of stimulating tourism projects north of the 49th parallel.

The Air Tunilik project involves the acquisition of several assets of Location Air Saguenay, which is no longer in service since 2019, to maintain tourism aviation activities and increase traffic in the Nord-du-Québec and Côte-Nord regions. It will contribute to structuring the tourism offering by ensuring tourist transportation to the attractions of these regions.

The financial assistance is granted under the Programme d’appui au développement des attraits touristiques (PADAT), managed by Investissement Québec. More specifically, an amount of $2 million is allocated in the form of a grant and $3 million in the form of a loan.  The total cost of the project is valued at over $10 million.

Quotation:
“I am delighted with this project, which will have positive effects for the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec tourism industry. It will help increase the number of visitors and overnight stays, as well as tourism revenues, by giving access to these more remote regions.  Air Tunilik will have the potential to bring clientele to the existing local tourism businesses and entrepreneurs, who will benefit from the support of the incubator-accelerator for tourism projects north of the 49th parallel. This is excellent news for tourism development in these regions. ” 

Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism 

“Improving access to remote regions is part of our Government’s priorities. That’s why I’m delighted with this investment, which will ensure an air link to the regions north of the 49th parallel.. This project is perfectly consistent with the 2020-2023 Northern Action Plan, which has the specific aim of supporting tourism development so that northern communities benefit from its effects.  “

Jonatan Julien, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister responsible for the Côte-Nord region

“I am especially happy for my fellow citizens of the Nord-du-Québec region. They will benefit from a greater influx of tourists thanks to this Air Tunilik development project. Having reliable air service is essential for this region’s tourism sector. This is very good news for the economic expansion of the region and Québec! “

Pierre Dufour, Minister of Forests, Wildlife and Parks and Minister responsible for the Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Nord-du-Québec regions

“With over fifty years of experience and now operating twelve float panes, ski planes and wheeled planes, Air Tunilik becomes the leading bush plane operator in Québec and one of the biggest in North America.  Our bases of operations cover all of North-Central Québec, from James Bay to the Lower North Shore. Over the years, we have established many collaborations with outfitters, vacationers and Indigenous communities to make Québec’s territory more safely accessible to everyone wishing to have access to it.  “

Simon Contant, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Tunilik

Highlights:

  • Here are some water bases used by Air Tunilik: Manic-5, Sept-Îles, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Natashquan, Wabush, Caniapiscau, Baie-Comeau, Mirage and Waskaganish outfitters. The company plans to offer its services within a 200 km radius of the water bases.
  • Air Tunilik plans to develop new water bases and have more aircraft in operation, with the goal of increasing its passenger traffic from 1,000 people in 2019 to over 13,000 in 2022. This expansion project should also allow it to increase its number of employees from 3 to 43 by 2022.
  • The PADAT, managed by Investissement Québec on behalf of the Gouvernement du Québec, pursues the following objectives:
    • Encourage private investments for the benefit of renewal of the tourism offering in Québec.
    • Ensure the growth of successful companies in the Québec tourism sector.
    • Stimulate the regional economy through job creation, an increase in the number of visitors and tourism revenue growth.
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https://www.flightglobal.com/networks/canadas-pal-airlines-to-expand-to-11-cities-this-summer/143211.article

 

Canada’s PAL Airlines to expand to 11 cities this summer

By Jon Hemmerdinger7 April 2021

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Canadian regional carrier PAL Airlines will expand its network this summer to include 11 new destinations in eastern Canada.

The expansion comes as Canada’s airlines eye a potential summer rebound in air travel demand.

PAL, which operates De Havilland Canada Dash 8 turboprops, will this summer add flights to Halifax and Sydney in Nova Scotia, and to Saint John, Fredericton and Bathurst in New Brunswick, the airline tells FlightGlobal.

PAL Airlines Dash

Source: PAL Airlines

A PAL Airlines De Havilland Canada Dash 8 turboprop

The expansion will also see PAL add service to Ottawa in Ontario and Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island. Additionally, it will begin flying to four cities in Quebec: Les Iles de la Madeleine, Gaspe, Baie-Comeau and Val-d’Or.

The Fredericton routes will include flights to Deer Lake, and onward to St John’s, and to Ottawa and Halifax, the Fredericton airport says on 7 April.

WestJet has also announced a planned expansion. That carrier intends to restore flights to several eastern Canadian cities in late June, meaning it would again serve all the cities it did prior to the pandemic.

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https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/fredericton-airport-flights-palairlines-1.5978535

PAL Airlines to service Fredericton with direct flights to Newfoundland, Ottawa, Halifax

The announcement marks the first-ever offering of direct flights from Fredericton to Newfoundland

 
isabelle-leger.jpg
Isabelle Leger · CBC News · Posted: Apr 07, 2021 5:16 PM AT | Last Updated: April 7
 
pal-airlines.jpg
PAL Airlines will offer flights from Fredericton to Deer Lake and St. John's Newfoundland, starting May 31. (PAL Airlines)
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A Newfoundland-based airline will service the Fredericton International Airport with direct flights to Deer Lake and St. John's, starting May 31.

PAL Airlines announced Wednesday it would offer three weekly flights to both cities, marking the first time Fredericton has ever had direct flights to Newfoundland.  

 

"This is a long time coming… we're confident there's a demand for this," said Fredericton Airport CEO Johanne Gallant. 

"We're really pleased to see that PAL Airlines is willing to take this on."

 
johanne-gallant.jpg
Johanne Gallant is the CEO of the Fredericton International Airport. (Submitted by Fredericton International Airport)

The airline will also offer three weekly direct flights from Fredericton to Ottawa and Halifax, beginning Aug. 2. 

Gallant said the addition of services is a sign of recovery for the aviation industry, which was paralyzed by pandemic restrictions. 

With plans for the Atlantic Bubble to open on April 19, she said the flights to Newfoundland and Halifax will provide New Brunswickers access to some prime tourist destinations. 

"We really see, for the summer, great leisure opportunities… people from here wanting to do something different and Newfoundland has such a great tourism product," said Gallant.  

 
fredericton-international-airport.jpg
The Fredericton airport just underwent a major renovation. (JAMES WEST PHOTOGRAPHY)

She said the flights to Halifax will fill the demand for corporate flyers and students, which was left unserviced when Air Canada halted all flights from the airport in January.

No one from PAL Airlines was available for an interview with CBC News on Wednesday, but the company provided an emailed statement. 

"We understand giving people the ability to get into and out of the region reliably and efficiently is going to be essential to the post-pandemic recovery," said the statement.

'We're ready for these new airlines'

The Fredericton airport completed a large terminal expansion this month, which Gallant says made room for more carriers. 

 
renovated-fredericton-international-airp
Fredericton International Airport completed the renovations in early 2021. (Submitted by Fredericton International Airport)

"Definitely having a brand-new terminal with lots of space for social distancing, that helps," she said.   

"With the terminal expansion project, we're ready for these new airlines."

Air Canada and WestJet have announced their flights will resume at the airport this summer. 

Gallant said the airport is still waiting for an official response from Porter Airlines on whether it will restore its services from pre-pandemic.

She said it's also hopeful that Sunwing will be able to offer vacation getaway packages from Fredericton by next winter

 

 

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https://www.capebretonpost.com/news/local/newfoundland-based-pal-airlines-to-fly-out-of-sydney-573350/

Newfoundland-based PAL Airlines to fly out of Sydney

Premium content
Published: 16 hours ago
Updated: 13 hours ago
 
/media/photologue/photos/cache/prime-minister-trudeau-cape-breton-is-pleading-1_large.jpg
The J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport is shown in this file photo. Sharon Montgomery-Dupe/Cape Breton Post
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SYDNEY, N.S. — 

There is a new airline coming to town.

Mike MacKinnon, CEO of the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport, announced in a tweet Wednesday afternoon that PAL Airlines will be flying out of Sydney as of May 31.

The regional air carrier will be offering three Sydney-to-Halifax flights a week.

A source at the St. John's, N.L.-based airline told the Cape Breton Post it will also be adding air service to Charlottetown, P.E.I., as well as Saint John, Fredericton and Bathurst, N.B.

PAL Airlines currently offers flights to Moncton as well as Montreal and several other cities in Quebec.

Additional cities in Quebec are also slated to be added to the carrier’s flight service.

According to the company's website, the airline made its start in Newfoundland and Labrador 45 years ago. Originally a renowned Atlantic Canadian flight school, it has grown into one of the largest independent airlines operating in Eastern Canada. Their core services now include scheduled flights, air charter and air cargo services.

The airline says over the years it has earned a solid reputation for safety and service and has received globally recognized awards for reliability.

There have not been any flights operating out of the Sydney airport since WestJet temporarily suspended service in November and Air Canada in January.

In March, WestJet announced it would be resuming flights in June and Air Canada is currently taking bookings for flights scheduled to resume at the same time.

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Canadian Transportation Agency

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Determination No. A-2021-51

April 6, 2021
 

APPLICATION by West Coast Air Ltd. carrying on business as Harbour Air (Licensee) for suspension of Licence No. 962204.

 
Case number: 
21-02872
 

The Licensee is licensed to operate a domestic service, small aircraft. The Licensee has requested the suspension of its licence.

Pursuant to paragraph 63(2)(b) of the Canada Transportation Act, SC 1996, c 10 (CTA), the Canadian Transportation Agency suspends the licence.

The licence will be automatically reinstated when the Manager, Air Licensing and Charters Division is satisfied that the requirements of subparagraphs 61(a)(ii) and (iii) of the CTA are met and provided that the other requirements of paragraph 61(a) of the CTA continue to be met.

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Central Mountain Air Releases Summer Flight Schedule

DSC_7413 (1) (1).jpg

(SMITHERS, BC May 11, 2021) Central Mountain Air responds to the need to provide air service to communities by adding 78 flights per week. 

Grande Prairie, High Level and Quesnel added to network.

Flights per weeks
8 – Edmonton YEG | Fort St John YXJ
8 – Edmonton YEG | Grande Prairie YQU
4 – Edmonton YEG | High Level YOJ
4 – Edmonton YEG | Prince George YXS
5 – Edmonton YEG | Fort Nelson YYE
5 – Edmonton YEG | Terrace YXT
5 – Kamloops YKA | Prince George YXS
5 – Kamloops YKA | Fort Nelson YYE
6 – Kamloops YKA | Fort St John YXJ
6 – Kamloops YKA | Terrace YXT
5 – Kelowna YLW | Prince George YXS
5 – Kelowna YLW | Fort Nelson YYE
6 – Kelowna YLW | Fort St John YXJ
6 – Kelowna YLW | Terrace YXT
4 – Prince George YXS | Fort Nelson YYE
5 – Prince George YXS | Fort St John YXJ
5 – Prince George YXS | Terrace YXT
4 – Prince George YXS | Grande Prairie YQU
4 – Quesnel YQZ | Castlegar YCG
6 – Vancouver YVR | Castlegar YCG
3 – Vancouver YVR | Kamloops YKA
3 – Vancouver YVR | Kelowna YLW
5 – Vancouver YVR | Quesnel YQZ
6 – Vancouver YVR | Prince George YXS
6 – Vancouver YVR | Edmonton YEG
6 – Vancouver YVR | Fort Nelson YYE
7 – Vancouver YVR | Fort St John YXJ
7 – Vancouver YVR | Terrace YXT

Central Mountain Air (CMA) announced today that it will increase its scheduled service by 78 flights per week beginning June 28th, 2021, and continuing through to November 6, 2021. Many of these flights will service connections that were originally suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CMA is also expanding the available days of the week on their existing schedule, with an emphasis on new Friday and Sunday flight options.

 “CMA has been contacted by both individuals and community leaders to provide service to enable their communities to recover and receive air connectivity after scheduled service reduced over 80% due to COVID-19. I commend these municipalities and airports for their willingness to partner and support their regions to help make this announcement today,” commented Michael Claeren, Central Mountain Air’s Head of Commercial.  

 “These communities are concerned about their future as they face the prospect of being left without or with limited air service, especially at a time when their regional economies have been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic and corresponding hardship.”  

 Although COVID-19 rates are still high, CMA is optimistic that essential travel guidance will be eased as British Columbia, Alberta, and Canada continue on the road to recovery with more vaccines being administered daily. CMA will still offer a flexible booking and cancellation policy for bookings until June 20th, 2021 for travel through to November 7th, 2021. 

 Bob Cummings, CEO added, “CMA will apply the same operational discipline for which it has a reputation to all the new routes and capacity. This will help nurse communities back to full recovery as the pandemic subsides. While many of the affected regional cities have been impacted by this announcement there are more cities and services to come.”

CMA is the independent regional airline leader in British Columbia and Alberta with 29 aircraft and looks forward to more fully utilizing that fleet.  

To celebrate their summer flight schedule launch, CMA is offering 10% off base airfares using promo code SUMMER21.

The promo code is valid for all scheduled flights starting June 01, 2021 with no blackout periods. This deal is only available on bookings through the CMA website and is not available through your travel agent. CMA has extended its Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policy for bookings until June 20, 2021 for travel through to November 7, 2021 to give you peace of mind when making your booking.  

Book from May 11, 2021 until May 25, 2021 @ 11:59PM PST 

For travel between June 01, 2021, and November 6, 2021 

See CMA’s full schedule at flycma.com/schedule

About Central Mountain Air Ltd.  

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Central Mountain Air Adds Campbell River to Network

Thanks to CW

CAMPBELL RIVER PRESS RELEASE.png

(Smithers, BC, June 17th, 2021)

17 June 2021 – Central Mountain Air adds Campbell River via Vancouver and Prince George to their Summer Flight Network with 16 flights per week.    

Central Mountain Air (CMA) announced today that it will add Campbell River to its network with 16 flights per week beginning Monday, July 12, 2021, and continuing through to Saturday, November 6, 2021. Scheduled service will include 12 non-stop flights per week to/from Vancouver and 4 non-stop flights per week to/from Prince George.   

These flights will focus on adding convenient times and connections to their expanding network. “We are excited to be offering a great new option from the area to Northern B.C.” shared CMA Head of Commercial Michael Claeren, “the connections to Terrace, Fort St John, and Fort Nelson are well-timed for mid-morning arrival and mid-afternoon return”. He continued, “we are also happy to be re-entering the Campbell River to Vancouver market, after having suspended operations due to COVID-19 just over a year ago”.  

With reopening plans moving forward in both British Columbia and Alberta, CMA is optimistic about the future of air travel as restrictions ease and we continue on the road to recovery. CMA looks forward to continuing to connect communities, loved ones, workforces, and provide an essential service to the communities that need it.   

Other new routes already announced that will start on June 28 are non-stop flights from Edmonton to/from Fort St John, High Level, and Grande Prairie, as well as non-stop flights from Vancouver to/from Quesnel. 

CMA is the independent regional airline leader in British Columbia and Alberta with 29 aircraft and looks forward to more fully utilizing that fleet.  

See CMA’s full schedule at flycma.com/schedule  

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PAL Airlines Awarded Contract to Provide Aircraft Charter Services for Indigenous Services Canada

palairlines.png?w=1024

PAL Airlines was supported in its bid by the Exchange Income Corporation Family of Airlines

ST. JOHN’S, NL, July 8, 2021 /CNW/ – PAL Airlines and the Exchange Income Corporation (EIC) family of airlines is proud to be awarded a contract by the Government of Canada for the continued delivery of specialized air charter services on behalf of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). These carefully managed air charter services facilitate travel to First Nations fly-in communities across Canada, ensuring health care professionals and other personnel can continue the delivery of essential services and critical supplies to sensitive communities.

“PAL Airlines and the EIC family of Airlines welcome this contract award as a continuation of services we have been delivering on behalf of the Government of Canada since early in the pandemic,” said Calvin Ash, President of PAL Airlines. “Our organization has established and carefully managed a complex nationwide network of service providers focused on meeting ISC’s critical needs, facilitating vital health care and infrastructure support for communities across Canada. We’re excited to carry that work forward under this new contract.”

Operated with strict health and safety protocols in place, these charter flights allow health care professionals and other personnel to board aircraft at dedicated facilities and maintain quarantine during travel.

“We have been proud to build this service in partnership with ISC over the course of the last year. Since our founding, EIC has invested in building the most comprehensive, adaptable, and reliable regional network in Canada to ensure we’re able to continue our operations in even the most adverse circumstances. This award is a validation of our success in that respect,” said Mike Pyle, Chief Executive Officer of EIC. “Through our airline operations, EIC has become a part of the community fabric in the fly-in First Nations destinations we serve across Canada. As a result of that established presence, we understand first-hand the vital services ISC health care providers deliver every day. It’s been immensely gratifying for everyone at EIC to be able to leverage our expertise in support of ISC and the communities we serve during these challenging times, and we look forward to continuing this important work.”

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Skip the long drive by flying out to your B.C. destination this summer

Thanks to CW

7 July 2021

Central Mountain Air is running non-stop flights from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, the Cariboo region, the Okanagan Valley, and Central B.C.

central-mountain-air-1Kelowna, B.C.Central Mountain Air

Really want to make a great escape from the city but NOT looking forward to that long car ride in the hot summer heat? Opt to hop on a plane to your getaway spot instead!

Now that non-essential travel within B.C. is encouraged again, Vancouverites can book inter-provincial non-stop flights with Central Mountain Air for a quick and affordable way to get around the province this year.

Departing from the South Terminal at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), passengers can fly direct from Vancouver to Campbell River, Quesnel, Kamloops, Kelowna, and Prince George. 

Then, from Prince George, you can also fly further up Northern B.C. with routes to Fort. St. John, Fort Nelson, and Terrace.  

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Campbell River, B.C. Photo: Central Mountain Air.

Here’s a quick primer of the cities that Central Mountain Air currently flies to from Vancouver.  

  • On the east coast of Vancouver Island, the oceanside community of Campbell River and the Discovery Islands are renowned for its spectacular mountains, west coast woodlands, Elk Falls Provincial Park and Suspension Bridge, whale watching, and salmon fishing at Discovery Pier.
     
  • Located along a pivotal mining trail of the Cariboo Gold Rush, Quesnel is home to B.C. heritage spots such as the Alexander Mackenzie hiking trail and the original 1867 Hudson’s Bay Company Trading Post in Riverfront Park.
     
  • The sunny canyon city of Kamloops in B.C.’s Interior is a four-season playground with long summers for hiking, biking, and water adventures. Go kayaking on one of Kamloops’ 100+ lakes and embark on outdoor adventures at Sun Peaks Resort.
     
  • Located on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is the Okanagan Valley’s largest city and is known for local vineyards and wineries, sandy beaches, surrounding provincial parks, and bustling downtown area — making it the perfect destination for urban and rural experiences.
     
  • The largest city in Northern B.C, Prince George is full of opportunities for outdoor recreation, from mountain biking through pristine rainforests to fishing in the endless network of streams, lakes, and rivers. It’s also the basecamp for venturing into Northeastern B.C. and Northwestern B.C. towards Fort St. John, Fort Nelson, and Terrace.  

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Fly with CMA! Photo: Central Mountain Air.

Connecting B.C. communities with ease and convenience since 1987, the independent Western Canadian airline is giving local B.C. residents a chance to go back to travelling and exploring their backyard. 

And, to further ensure that you can book your flight with confidence, Central Mountain Air has extended their COVID-19 flexible booking and cancellation policy until July 31st for travel through to November 7th, so you can have peace of mind knowing you can make changes to your flight reservation if you need to. ⁠

For more info, visit flycma.com/schedule.

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  • 7 months later...

PAL Airlines Reaches Agreement with Teamsters Union

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ST. JOHN’S, NL, Feb. 8, 2022 /CNW/ – PAL Airlines today announced the ratification of two collective agreements with Teamsters Local 855, representing PAL Airlines Customer Service Agents and PAL Airlines Ground, Cargo and Commissary personnel respectively.    

“I am pleased to share that we have successfully completed our initial agreements with Teamsters Local 855,” said Calvin Ash, President of PAL Airlines. “Our Customer Service Agents, Ground, Cargo and Commissary personnel are vital and valued members of the PAL Airlines team. We would like to thank everyone involved in the bargaining process for their commitment to achieving a negotiated solution that benefits all involved. PAL Airlines will continue to support these important employees as they deliver the safe, high-quality services that travellers have come to expect from our team.”    

“Teamsters Local 885 welcomes the ratification of these first collective agreements with PAL Airlines,” said Rick Gill, President, Teamsters Local 855. “Through an open and cooperative negotiation process with PAL Airlines management, we’ve been able to secure agreements for PAL Airlines Customer Service Agents and PAL Airlines Ground, Cargo and Commissary personnel that improve wages, enhance working conditions and secure the future for these valued workers at PAL.”  

About PAL Airlines:

A proud member of the Exchange Income Corporation family of airlines, PAL Airlines is based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador and serves an extensive network of scheduled and charter destinations across Eastern Canada and Quebec. PAL Airlines has over 40 years experience in the aviation industry with a reputation built on safety, reliability, and exceptional customer service. PAL Airlines was recently awarded our seventh Airline Reliability Award from De Havilland Canada for the Dash 8–100/200/300 Aircraft Program.

For more information, please visit: www.palairlines.ca

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PAL Aerospace Awarded Contract for Continued Provision of Air Ambulance Services in Nova Scotia

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HALIFAX, NS, Feb. 10, 2022 /CNW/ – PAL Aerospace is pleased to be awarded a contract for the continued provision of air ambulance services for the Province of Nova Scotia. A part of the largest air ambulance service provider in Canada through the Exchange Income Corporation (EIC) family of companies, PAL Aerospace has been delivering fixed-wing air ambulance services, in partnership with EHS LifeFlight, under contract in the Province of Nova Scotia since 2000. This new contract extends PAL Aerospace’s services in the province for an additional seven years, with an option to extend for an additional three years.

PAL Aerospace Emergency Health Services (EHS) Nova Scotia Air Ambulance (CNW Group/PAL Aerospace Ltd.) PAL Aerospace Emergency Health Services (EHS) Nova Scotia Air Ambulance (CNW Group/PAL Aerospace Ltd.)

“This award affirms PAL Aerospace’s long-standing partnership with Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness and EHS LifeFlight in the delivery of leading-edge fixed-wing air ambulance services for the Province of Nova Scotia,” said PAL Aerospace CEO Jake Trainor. “Through the course of our work together, we have made extensive investments in technology training and interoperability to ensure we are offering the most consistent, reliable and safe medical transports possible. The collaborative approach we have consistently applied in the delivery of our services for Nova Scotia is a model for other Canadian jurisdictions to follow.”

“We are pleased that this highly successful partnership with PAL Aerospace will be continuing,” said Colin Flynn, Senior Manager of EHS LifeFlight. “PAL Aerospace play an integral role in our ability to provide the highest level of care to the people of the Maritimes”.

PAL Aerospace’s partnership with EHS LifeFlight has been integral to the achievement of accreditation at the highest level for fixed-wing air ambulance services from the Global Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS). PAL Aerospace and EHS LifeFlight have also invested significant engineering resources in the development of integrated patient handling systems to ensure the delivery of top-quality health services while improving patient care and safety, developed specialized neonatal and bariatric patient handling and care services, and have established a uniquely integrated and equipped facility which is hosted by PAL Aerospace at Halifax International Airport for fixed-wing, rotary and ground ambulance support.

“This award is particularly gratifying for PAL Aerospace given our deep roots and long history in the Province of Nova Scotia,” continued Mr. Trainor. “Through our over 65 years of continual presence in the market, we understand firsthand the vital importance of providing the best possible air ambulance service to the people of the province. We are honoured to have been again selected to deliver these essential services.”

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  • 4 weeks later...

Kenmore Air: Inside The North American Seaplane Airline

BY JOE KUNZLERPUBLISHED 2 HOURS AGO
 

From modest beginnings, Kenmore Air has become a regional aviation tour de force with 25 aircraft in operation.

Photo: AvgeekJoe Productions

At the northern tip of Lake Washington is a place called Kenmore, which is home plate for Kenmore Air. Kenmore Air was founded in 1946 by Bob Munro, Reg Collins and Jack Mines with a foundation of “Do the right thing”. From modest beginnings, Kenmore Air has become a regional aviation tour de force with 25 aircraft in operation, 52 pilots on staff and more than 250 employees during peak season providing multiple offerings up to and including international seaplane service.

 
 
 

Modest beginnings as a dealer and maintainer

Kenmore Air started as a Republic Seabee dealer and maintainer for the Northwest, raising the prominence of the Seabee amphibian. But as the 1950s rolled around, Kenmore Air signed on as an aircraft and parts dealer for the popular Cessna and expanded into providing charter flights.

In 1963 Kenmore Air acquired its first DeHavilland Beaver, leading to a restoration and modification program specifically for this aircraft. The deHaviland Beaver and Otter between Kenmore Air and Vancouver, BC's Harbour Air - an airline Simple Flying flew with in 2019 - is synonymous with Pacific Northwest aviation.

 

Becoming a seaplane airline

Over the next two decades, Kenmore Air significantly expanded its scheduled service offerings, and acquired two airlines: Otter Air, a small seaplane company offering scheduled service to Victoria, and Lake Union Air. With the acquisition of Lake Union Air, Kenmore acquired its Seattle seaplane terminal and all but one of its aircraft.

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Kenmore Air has grown to become more than just an airline. Photo: AvgeekJoe Productions
 

Kenmore Air today

Today, Kenmore Air flies piston DeHavilland Beavers, turbine DeHavilland Otters, and Cessna Caravans to take passengers to lakes, harbors, and runways among the mist-shrouded fjords and islands of the Pacific Northwest in both the United States and Canada.

There is also a flight school run by the airline that requires smaller aircraft to train pilots - such as its Chief Pilot Jay Todhunter - how to fly floatplanes and seaplanes. Plus, using its commercial fleet, Kenmore Air provides scenic flights over Seattle and the San Juan Islands while also serving San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island of the San Juan Islands with airline & charter service from Seattle bases.

In a company blog, Kenmore Air chief pilot Jay Todhunter wrote about flying for Kenmore Air,

A lot of companies say they have a family atmosphere. Here it’s actually true. ... There’s an incredible energy to flying aboard a seaplane. You’re going to unique destinations with killer views. Seeing people really enjoy travel is special.

With pandemic travel restrictions rolling back, Kenmore Air will restart service to Victoria, British Columbia, from April 1, 2022. Flights will start from Seattle's Lake Union facility to the Harbour Air terminal at Victoria, British Columbia with 45 minute daily flights starting at 9 AM and 3 PM. Return flights from Victoria back to Seattle are scheduled for 10:15 AM and 3:15 PM , again daily. Because an international border is being passed, there are special requirements to fly those flights such as having a passport plus vaccine verification plus a recent Covid19 test; so check with the operator before you decide to travel.

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  • 3 weeks later...

Harbour Air Seaplanes Fuel Charge Notice

fuel-surcharge.jpg

 25 Mar, 2022

Due to the ongoing surge in fuel prices, Harbour Air will be implementing a fuel surcharge on all fares effective Monday, March 28. Please rest assured this is a temporary measure being implemented to cover operational costs. 

 This surcharge will apply to all new bookings including confirmed travel, and standby travel. Additionally, any new purchases of pre-paid quick tickets, and on-account quick tickets will include a Fuel Surcharge on the base fare. 

Although Harbour Air continues to work hard to reduce its consumption of fuels, the intention of having this charge as a separate expense is to ensure that when fuel prices return to baseline, it can be eliminated.  Thank you for your understanding and continued support. 

Terms and Conditions 

  • Fuel surcharges will only be applied to flights booked on March 28th onwards 
  • Any pre-existing reservation (booked prior to March 28th), that changes on or after March 28th will be subject to the new fuel surcharge  
  • This surcharge will be evaluated regularly and may be adjusted to align with any changes in fuel prices
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55 minutes ago, Kargokings said:

Harbour Air Seaplanes Fuel Charge Notice

fuel-surcharge.jpg

 25 Mar, 2022

Due to the ongoing surge in fuel prices, Harbour Air will be implementing a fuel surcharge on all fares effective Monday, March 28. Please rest assured this is a temporary measure being implemented to cover operational costs. 

 This surcharge will apply to all new bookings including confirmed travel, and standby travel. Additionally, any new purchases of pre-paid quick tickets, and on-account quick tickets will include a Fuel Surcharge on the base fare. 

Although Harbour Air continues to work hard to reduce its consumption of fuels, the intention of having this charge as a separate expense is to ensure that when fuel prices return to baseline, it can be eliminated.  Thank you for your understanding and continued support. 

Terms and Conditions 

  • Fuel surcharges will only be applied to flights booked on March 28th onwards 
  • Any pre-existing reservation (booked prior to March 28th), that changes on or after March 28th will be subject to the new fuel surcharge  
  • This surcharge will be evaluated regularly and may be adjusted to align with any changes in fuel prices

I thought they were going electric?

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  • 1 month later...

The First Direct Flight from Whitehorse and Yellowknife Lands at Toronto Pearson Airport

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Air North, Yukon’s Airline, celebrates new direct connection to Toronto, making way for new economic opportunities and travel for the Yukon and the Northwest Territories

TORONTO, May 11, 2022 /CNW/ – Last night passengers aboard Air North, Yukon’s Airline, flight number 4N823, landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport, becoming the first to enjoy Canada’s first-ever scheduled direct service between Whitehorse, Yellowknife and Toronto. To mark this milestone occasion for Canadian aviation, passengers were met by a special event at Toronto Pearson International Airport, celebrating its cultural and economic significance.

Air North, Yukon’s Airline, celebrates new direct connection to Toronto, making way for new economic opportunities and travel for the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon's Airline) Air North, Yukon’s Airline, celebrates new direct connection to Toronto, making way for new economic opportunities and travel for the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon’s Airline)
Attendees were treated to a special performance from the Teechik Dancers, a Vuntut Gwitchin group from Old Crow, Yukon. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon's Airline) Attendees were treated to a special performance from the Teechik Dancers, a Vuntut Gwitchin group from Old Crow, Yukon. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon’s Airline)
President and CEO of Air North, Yukon's Airline, Joe Sparling, welcomes Air North, Yukon's Airline flight number 4N823 at Toronto Pearson International Airport. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon's Airline) President and CEO of Air North, Yukon’s Airline, Joe Sparling, welcomes Air North, Yukon’s Airline flight number 4N823 at Toronto Pearson International Airport. (photo credit: Simon Blakesley) (CNW Group/Air North, Yukon’s Airline)

The seasonal route is expected to not only expand tourism and business travel to the territories, but holds particular significance to the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, from Old Crow, Yukon, who own 49 per cent of Air North, Yukon’s Airline. As the Yukon’s only community accessible exclusively by air, this route will be a necessary means for economic growth, and an important cultural and personal link. As Canadians seek to better understand each other, the flight unlocks unprecedented opportunities for more people than ever before to explore both Territories and immerse themselves in the cultures of Indigenous peoples who call the Yukon and Northwest Territories home.

To celebrate the inaugural flight, Premier of the Yukon, Sandy Silver, and the Yukon’s Minister of Economic Development, Tourism and Culture Ranj Pillai, attended the Toronto Pearson Airport event along with Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Councilor Bonnee Bingham. Attendees were treated to a special performance from the Teechik Dancers, a Vuntut Gwitchin group from Old Crow, Yukon.

“By providing direct flights between Whitehorse and Toronto, we are in turn connecting Yukon businesses to the country’s biggest economic hub and creating a pathway for people around the world to visit our territory,” Ranj Pillai Minister of Tourism and Culture and Economic Development. “We are thrilled Air North, Yukon’s Airline is able to offer this new service and I look forward to welcoming more visitors to the Yukon and sharing the economic benefits that come with this additional air access.”

“Air North, Yukon’s Airline owes our success to key Indigenous and community partnerships, which have allowed us to navigate the many challenges we have encountered during the past 20 years,” said Joe Sparling, President and CEO of Air North, Yukon’s Airline. “We are pleased to have added Toronto to our network, ensuring residents of the Yukon’s regional communities have seamless and affordable access to the rest of Canada and the world. This will broaden education, sports and cultural horizons for youth, and facilitate regional economic development. We are proud to make the North a better place to live and work.”

As part of last night’s celebrations Premier Sandy Silver, Minister Ranj Pillai, and Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Councilor Brenda Bingham, spoke to the airline’s history and future, noting their mutual excitement for the opportunities that grow from this new development.

The twice-weekly service from Toronto, operating via Yellowknife, is now available to book at flyairnorth.com.

About Air North, Yukon’s Airline

Air North, Yukon’s Airline was founded in 1977 and is 49% owned by the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation. One in 15 Yukoners have an equity or employment stake in the airline. Air North, Yukon’s Airline, operates a fleet of Boeing 737 jets and ATR 42 turboprops on routes throughout Yukon and to the Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alberta, and seasonally to Ontario. In 2020 it was the recipient of the Travellers’ Choice Award for Best Airline in Canada and Best Airline (Specialty and Leisure) in North America based upon glowing reviews from its passengers.

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Air Tindi offers evacuees free flights home to Hay River

Published: May 16, 2022 at 7:00amOLLIE WILLIAMS

Air Tindi's floatbase in Yellowknife. Sarah Pruys/Cabin Radio

 


NWT airline Air Tindi says evacuees who escaped flooding in Hay River and the Kátł’odeeche First Nation last week can fly home for free.

On Sunday evening, the airline said it would offer free seats – including all fees and taxes – on scheduled Air Tindi flights from Yellowknife to Hay River until May 24.

Air Tindi operates two round trips between Yellowknife and Hay River each weekday, as well as one service every Sunday.

The Town of Hay River has told residents they are free to return, though some areas of the town remain impassable for at least two to three more days. The GNWT is providing buses to help some evacuees return and assess the damage to their homes.

The Kátł’odeeche First Nation has told members to stay away for the time being.

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My god, how old is Joe Sparling now.  

The last time I saw him he was operating some pretty old stuff into some pretty tight strips surrounded by all sorts of evil looking terrain.  He must be doing something right to still be upright, let alone in YYZ. 

 

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