Winter 2023 heats up with release of Flair Airlines Winter Schedule

• Winter 2023 will see an expansion in Las Vegas with the addition of service from Ottawa and Calgary
• Existing Phoenix service will move from Phoenix-Mesa to Sky Harbor and new route from Calgary to begin in October
• Majority of Winter 2023 capacity to be international or transborder

EDMONTON, AB, March 7, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, Flair Airlines, Canada’s everyday low fare airline, announces the release of an exciting winter 2023 schedule. The schedule features added depth across the network to give customers more choice, particularly to sunshine, at low fares.

Today’s announcement includes several new routes, including Toronto to Puerto Vallarta (beginning October 29, 4x weekly), Kitchener-Waterloo to Puerto Vallarta (beginning December 16, 3x weekly), Calgary to Las Vegas (beginning October 30, 7x weekly), and Calgary to Phoenix (beginning October 30, 4x weekly). Flair will also be the only carrier to serve Ottawa to Las Vegas (beginning October 13, 2x weekly).

Existing service from Vancouver and Edmonton to Phoenix will move to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for the season, along with the new service from Calgary to Phoenix.

“With today’s exciting announcement, we are reaffirming our commitment to Canadians,” said Stephen Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer, Flair Airlines. “Our network offers more choice to more sun destinations than ever before. Rather than one reprieve from winter, we look forward to Canadians taking the opportunity to try all of the amazing destinations in our network.”

“We’ve optimized our network this winter to match demand for sun. It’s clear that Canadians want more affordable options for sun, more often,” said Garth Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Flair Airlines. “We’ve focused on adding depth to our network by increasing frequencies on popular routes. We’ll now have daily service various routes, including Vancouver to Los Angeles and Toronto to Orlando to make it easier for Canadians to plan their winter travel.”

One-way fares at flyflair.com begin at $9 one way including taxes and fees (Thunder Bay to Toronto). Limited seats for a limited time. Flights are available for booking at flyflair.com.

All routes, including the winter schedule, are now on sale for 20% off base fare with code: SAVE20. Sale starts on March 7 and ends on March 9, 2023, for travel from March 7, 2023, to March 14, 2024. Terms and conditions apply. Limited seats for a limited time. *

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 35 cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. For more information, please visit www.flyflair.com. 

*Use promo code: SAVE20. Limited seats for a limited time. Base fare only. Taxes and fees not included. Sale start: March 7, 2023. Sale end: March 9, 2023. Blackout dates: April 6 – April 7, 2023; April 10, 2023; May 18 – May 19, 2023; May 22 – May 23, 2023; June 30, 2023; September 1 – September 4, 2023; October 6 – October 9, 2023; November 10 – November 13, 2023; December 15, 2023 – January 7, 2024; February 15 – February 20, 2024.

Winter 2023 Weekly Frequencies

Transborder

• Toronto (YYZ) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 14x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Los Angeles (LAX): 7x weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – New York (JFK): 4X weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – Las Vegas (LAS): 4x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – San Francisco (SFO): 4x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 4x weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – Orlando (SFB): 7x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Las Vegas (LAS): 7x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Las Vegas (LAS): 4x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Fort Lauderdale (FLL): 4x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Phoenix (PHX): 3x weekly
• Calgary (YYC) – Phoenix (PHX): 4x weekly
• Calgary (YYC) – Las Vegas (LAS): 7x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Orlando (SFB): 4x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Los Angeles (LAX): 3x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Phoenix (PHX): 4x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Orlando (SFB): 4x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Las Vegas (LAS): 2x weekly

International

• Vancouver (YVR) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 9x weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – Cancun (CUN): 10x weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 4x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly 
• Abbotsford (YXX) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly
• Calgary (YYC) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 6x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Cancun (CUN) 4x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Los Cabos (SJD): 3x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Cancun (CUN): 3x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
• Calgary (YYC) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
• Abbotsford (YXX) – Los Cabos (SJD): 1x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 3x weekly

Domestic

• Toronto (YYZ) – Vancouver (YVR): 15x weekly
• Toronto (YYZ) – Calgary (YYC): 11x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Abbotsford (YXX): 14x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Vancouver (YVR): 14X weekly
• Abbotsford (YXX) – Calgary (YYC): 14x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Calgary (YYC): 14x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Kelowna (YLW): 11x weekly
• Winnipeg (YWG) – Toronto (YYZ): 10x weekly
• Kelowna (YLW) – Calgary (YYC): 7x weekly
• Kelowna (YLW) – Vancouver (YVR): 7x weekly
• Montreal (YUL) – Vancouver (YVR): 5x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Toronto (YYZ): 7x weekly
• Abbotsford (YXX) – Toronto (YYZ): 7x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Vancouver (YVR): 4x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Winnipeg (YWG): 4x weekly
• Winnipeg (YWG) – Calgary (YYC): 4x weekly
• Saskatoon (YXE) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Winnipeg (YWG): 3x weekly
• Montreal (YUL) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
• Halifax (YHZ) – Ottawa (YOW): 4x weekly
• Vancouver (YVR) – Saskatoon (YXE): 3x weekly
• Saskatoon (YXE) – Toronto (YYZ): 3x weekly
• Calgary (YYC) – Victoria (YYJ): 3x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Montreal (YUL): 4x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Vancouver (YVR): 2x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
• Halifax (YHZ) – Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF): 2x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Abbotsford (YXX): 3x weekly
• Ottawa (YOW) – Calgary (YYC): 3x weekly
• Kitchener-Waterloo (YKF) – Winnipeg (YWG): 2x weekly
• Edmonton (YEG) – Victoria (YYJ): 3x weekly

Swoop Announces New Domestic Routes Coming This Spring with Increased Frequencies and Connectivity

The ultra-not-expensive airline looks forward to connecting Canadians from coast to coast this summer with new routes and added capacity

CALGARY, AB, March 6, 2023 /CNW/ – Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, is excited to announce its expanded summer schedule, with several new routes and added flight frequencies, offering Canadians more affordable options for domestic travel.

“As Canada’s leading ultra-not-expensive airline, we’re proud to be expanding our footprint from coast to coast with our summer schedule,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “Convenience and affordability are paramount, so we’re focusing our ultra-not-expensive flights in true ULCC markets that enable more Canadians to explore their big, beautiful backyard.”

As part of this summer’s domestic expansion, Swoop will be adding new service between London, ON (YXU) and Abbotsford (YXX), and will restart seasonal service between Hamilton (YHM) and Charlottetown (YYG). The ULCC will also return popular service to Deer Lake, NL (YDF) with enhanced connectivity from southern Ontario, with flights operating six times weekly from Hamilton (YHM) and Toronto (YYZ).

“This summer we’re thrilled to add significant frequencies on our top performing routes,” continued Cummings. “With daily service in many key leisure markets, we’re making it easier than ever for Canadians access our ultra-convenient and ultra-affordable flights.”

Swoop is also signalling that winter is not over yet, with new seasonal extensions for its most popular sun-flying routes. Canadians can escape to the beach through the end of June with ultra-not-expensive flights from Edmonton (YEG) and Abbotsford (YXX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) and Los Cabos (SJD) for as low as $119.00 CAD all-in one-way*.

“The London International Airport is thrilled to announce non-stop service to beautiful Abbotsford, British Columbia with Swoop this summer” said Scott McFadzean, President and CEO of the London International Airport. “London and the surrounding region continue to look for more exciting destinations directly from YXU’s easy and comfortable airport. We’re looking forward to the spring and the launch of Abbotsford service with Swoop.”

“We are excited to welcome Swoop back for its second year to Deer Lake for the Summer 2023. Swoop provides affordable air travel, making it easier for families and friends to reconnect more often from Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario with opportunity for connection beyond. It increases access for tourists to take in the many great experiences we offer in Western Newfoundland & Labrador.” said Tammy Priddle President and CEO Deer Lake Regional Airport. “2022 was a great season with Swoop and we are confident 2023 will be another terrific year for travellers to start their adventures with Swoop at YDF”.

Swoop’s fleet growth in 2022 has enabled the ULCC to grow its presence across Canada, with a strong focus in Atlantic Canada where affordable air travel options are lean. Swoop will operate daily flights from southern Ontario into Halifax (YHZ) and St. John’s (NL) and near daily flights to Charlottetown (YYG). West coast connectivity will continue to soar with a 67% increase in flights operating to Abbotsford (YXX).

With one-way all-in prices starting from just $39 CAD*, there’s never been a better time to start planning a great Canadian adventure.

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Lowest one- way total price (CAD)	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes & Fees (CAD)
Hamilton to Deer Lake	2x weekly	$59.00	$15.23	$43.77
Deer Lake to Hamilton	2x weekly	$59.00	$16.14	$42.86
Toronto to Deer Lake	4x weekly	$79.00	$28.84	$50.16
Deer Lake to Toronto	4x weekly	$79.00	$32.62	$46.38
Hamilton to Charlottetown	3x weekly	$59.00	$16.14	$42.87
Charlottetown to Hamilton	3x weekly	$49.00	$11.53	$37.47
London to Abbotsford	4x weekly	$49.00	$25.29	$23.71
Abbotsford to London	4x weekly	$39.00	$22.84	$16.16
Toronto to Los Cabos	2x weekly	$179.00	$65.88	$113.12
Edmonton to Los Cabos	2x weekly	$119.00	$8.68	$113.32
Abbotsford to Los Cabos	1x weekly	$109.00	$35.43	$73.57
Edmonton to Puerto Vallarta	2x weekly	$139.00	$28.66	$110.34
Abbotsford to Puerto Vallarta	2x weekly	$119.00	$55.43	$73.57

*Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until March 7, 2023 or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Seats at these fares are limited, and may not be available on all flights. | Non-refundable.

About Swoop

Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.  

At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.

Fast Air charter service launches in Abbotsford

Web News • 13 December 2022

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Swoop Announces More Non-stop Sun Flying Across Canada

The ultra-not-expensive airline signals now is the time to escape the cold, with more frequent, affordable and convenient options this winter

CALGARY, AB, Dec. 12, 2022 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, is setting its sights south with newly added flights to Mexico and the Caribbean from Hamilton, Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Abbotsford.

“As Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline, we are thrilled to be expanding sun-flying this winter,” said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. “With winter weather upon us, demand for leisure travel down south is reaching new heights and we’re proud to meet that demand with this added capacity.”

The ultra-not-expensive airline recently completed a significant fleet expansion, inducting six new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to meet demand for ultra-low-cost leisure travel. Beginning in January, Swoop will restart service from Hamilton to Montego Bay. The ULCC will also add new frequencies to popular published routes from Hamilton to Punta Cana, Toronto to Cancun, Winnipeg to Puerto Vallarta, Edmonton to Mazatlán, as well as Abbotsford to Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

Canadians can unlock exclusive discounts at all-inclusive resorts when they book their ultra-not-expensive flight as part of a Swoop Getaway*. For added convenience, Swoop flights to warm and sunny destinations are also available through WestJet Vacations.

“We’re excited that travellers can once again take advantage of convenient flights to Jamaica as Swoop resumes its popular service between Hamilton and Montego Bay in the new year. The restart is indicative of the growth ahead for our travel and tourism industry in 2023 and comes just in time for travellers looking for a Caribbean destination this winter. Sun-seekers across the region will now have a low-cost option to enjoy the relaxing beaches and exciting attractions that the vibrant city of Montego Bay has to offer.” – Cole Horncastle, Executive Managing Director of John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport

“We are thrilled to see Swoop’s continued investment in the Hamilton community with the return of Swoop service to Montego Bay and added frequencies to Punta Cana. People from across the region enjoy the ease, convenience, and comfort of flying out of the John C. Munro International Airport right here in Hamilton. Increased Swoop services to popular destinations creates more jobs and boosts our local economy.” – Andrea Horwath, Mayor of Hamilton

With a one-way, all-in price to sunny escapes starting at just $159 CAD^†, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable a vacation can be this winter.  

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	Lowest one-way  total price (CAD)	Base Fare   (CAD)	Taxes & Fees   (CAD)	Days operating per week
Hamilton to Montego Bay	2x weekly	$159.00	$47.33	$111.67	Wednesdays and Saturdays
Hamilton to Punta Cana	2x weekly	$199.00	$90.68	$108.32	Wednesdays and   Saturdays
Toronto to Cancun	8x per week	$269.00	$126.73	$99.32	Daily, 2x Tuesdays
Winnipeg to Puerto Vallarta	3x weekly	$399.00	$290.73	$99.32	Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays
Edmonton to Mazatlán	3x weekly	$199.00	$93.88	$102.17	Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
Abbotsford to Los Cabos	3x weekly	$199.00	$130.64	$65.42	Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays
Abbotsford to Puerto Vallarta	4x weekly	$239.00	$170.63	$65.42	Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays

^†For travel between January 5-February 28, 2023 | Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until December 15, 2022 (11:59 p.m. MT) or while seats last. | Prices displayed above are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted.

*Swoop Getaways packages are only available at www.flyswoop.com

About Swoop

Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.   

Swoop’s fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded this year to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.

Swoop heats up winter travel planning with new non-stop flights to Cuba

The ultra-not-expensive airline grows Caribbean offering with ultra-not-expensive service from Toronto to Varadero

CALGARY, AB, Aug. 31, 2022 /CNW/ – Today, Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, expanded its winter schedule with new routes, more frequencies and new service to Cuba. Swoop will begin its seasonal, non-stop service between Toronto (YYZ) and Varadero (VRA) on January 11, 2023, and fares are starting as low as $189 one-way.

“We’re thrilled to be announcing an expansion in the Caribbean, adding Varadero to our growing list of vacation destinations,” said Tia McGrath, Leader, Distribution and Sales. “Cuba tops the list for Ontarians seeking an affordable beach getaway and we’re proud to reaffirm our commitment to the region with more ultra-convenient and ultra-low fares.”

As part of its expanding winter schedule, Swoop will restart service to some popular sun and fun routes. Swoop is bringing sun flying back to London, ON (YXU) beginning December 3 with non-stop service to Cancun (CUN) starting on December 3 and to Orlando (Sanford) on December 4. In addition, the ULCC will restart service to Fort Lauderdale, FL (FLL) from both Toronto (YYZ) and Hamilton (YHM) on December 8 and December 9, respectively.

“We know that choice and value are important to Canadians planning vacations,” continued McGrath, “We have several options available for our ultra-not-expensive flights to be packaged with all-inclusive resorts or vacation properties.”

Through Swoop Getaways, travellers can pair ultra-not-expensive Swoop flights with thousands of hotel, resort and vacation properties, unlocking hotel discounts. Those looking for a pre-packaged vacation can add a Swoop flight to a WestJet Vacation when they book through online travel agencies. Swoop has also partnered with The Special Travel Corporation, whose knowledgeable travel agents can book custom packages with ultra-low-fare Swoop flights.

“We are thrilled to welcome Swoop flights to Cuba, we are excited with this new partnership which means more capacity to Cuba from Canada. In this price sensitive market, Swoop’s ultra-low cost structure will make easier to Canadians this winter to enjoy beautiful Cuba” – Lessner Gomes, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board

 “The London International Airport and Swoop saw strong growth through 2019 and the first quarter of 2020 prior to the pandemic restrictions,” said Scott McFadzean, President and CEO of London International Airport. “It is amazing to have Swoop back offering these incredible destinations at low rates from your local easy and comfortable airport.”

Swoop has increased the frequency of flying on many existing routes, with daily flights from Toronto to Cancun and Las Vegas and near-daily flights to Montego Bay and Punta Cana. Full details of Swoop’s expanded winter schedule can be found below, with ultra-not-expensive flights to sun getaways starting at $89 one-way total pride (CAD).

Route	Peak Weekly Frequency	One-way total price (CAD)	Base Fare (CAD)	Taxes & Fees (CAD)
Toronto to Varadero	3x weekly	$189.00	$73.04	$115.96
Toronto to Ft. Lauderdale	6x weekly	$109.00	$13.05	$95.95
Toronto to St. Pete-Clearwater	2x weekly	$119.00	$23.97	$95.03
Toronto to Orlando	6x weekly	$119.00	$23.97	$95.03
Toronto to Las Vegas	7x weekly	$99.00	$4.92	$94.08
Toronto to Cancun	10x weekly	$259.00	$156.62	$102.38
Toronto to Kingston	5x weekly	$189.00	$71.68	$117.32
Toronto to Montego Bay	6x weekly	$189.00	$71.68	$117.32
Toronto to Punta Cana	5x weekly	$179.00	$65.03	$113.97
Toronto to Puerto Vallarta	2x weekly	$299.00	$196.62	$102.38
Toronto to Los Cabos	2x weekly	$239.00	$136.62	$102.38
Hamilton to Ft. Lauderdale	2x weekly	$109.00	$18.43	$90.57
Hamilton to Las Vegas	4x weekly	$119.00	$29.35	$89.65
Hamilton to St. Pete-Clearwater	3x weekly	$139.00	$48.40	$90.60
Hamilton to Orlando	4x weekly	$99.00	$10.30	$88.70
Hamilton to Cancun	3x weekly	$239.00	$142.27	$96.73
Hamilton to Puerto Vallarta	1x weekly	$199.00	$90.68	$108.32
London to Orlando	2x weekly	$89.00	$18.75	$70.25
London to Cancun	2x weekly	$129.00	$53.69	$75.31
Edmonton to Mesa	2x weekly	$219.00	$115.33	$103.67
Edmonton to Las Vegas	6x weekly	$99.00	$2.21	$96.79
Edmonton to Mazatlán	1x weekly	$299.00	$230.52	$68.48
Edmonton to Puerto Vallarta	2x weekly	$259.00	$153.77	$105.23
Edmonton to Los Cabos	2x weekly	$219.00	$115.53	$103.47
Winnipeg to Mesa	2x weekly	$159.00	$128.65	$30.35
Winnipeg to Orlando	2x weekly	$149.00	$46.83	$102.17
Winnipeg to Puerto Vallarta	2x weekly	$449.00	$340.62	$108.38
Abbotsford to Mazatlán	1x weekly	$179.00	$73.77	$105.23
Abbotsford to Los Cabos	2x weekly	$269.00	$200.52	$68.48
Abbotsford to Puerto Vallarta	3x weekly	$299.00	$230.52	$68.48

To learn more about Swoop and for flight schedules and bookings, please visit FlySwoop.com.

About Swoop    

Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada’s ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop’s unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire. 

Swoop’s fleet, comprised of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft and three Boeing MAX-8 aircraft will grow to 16 with the addition of three more Boeing MAX-8 in 2022. At FlySwoop.com [c212.net] travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.

CF Snowbirds will not be able to take part in the Abbotsford International Airshow

Abbotsford International Airport breaks half-million passenger mark for 2021

From Abbotsford News 🔗 link to source story

The Abbotsford International Airport cracked the half million mark for passengers this year after a big dip in 2020. (File photo)

According to numbers from Destination BC, YXX bounces back after a big dip in 2020

BEN LYPKA • March 24, 2022

After a big dip in the numbers in 2020, the Abbotsford International Airport bounced back and cracked the half-million passenger mark for 2021.

Recently released numbers from Destination British Columbia calculated a total of 503,955 passengers arriving at YXX, which was an increase of 59.7 per cent from 2020’s total of 315,578.

January, February and March of 2021 were all significantly down from 2020, seeing drops in passengers of 84.1, 88 and 78.7 per cent respectively. February saw the lowest amount of passengers all year, with 8,504 passengers touching down.

Volume began a turnaround starting in April and continued for the rest of the year. August was the busiest month, with 103,245 passengers arriving – a jump of 409 per cent from 2020.

September (83,008) and October (75,815) were the next two highest months volume wise.

The 2021 and 2020 totals were hit hard by restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 2019 was YXX’s busiest year on record, as it passed the one-million mark for the year on Dec. 30, 2019. The total for 2019 ended up at 1,008,116.

Prior to 2020, YXX had increased in passenger volume five years in a row starting in 2015. The 2021 number was actually slightly higher than the 2015 number of 487,833 passengers.

Past totals also include: 530,643 (2016), 677,653 (2017) and 842,212 (2018).

For more, visit destinationbc.ca/tourism-industry-dashboard.

Government of Canada announces over $18.8 million in support for the air transportation ecosystem in British Columbia

Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI) funding will help maintain regional connectivity and jobs

KELOWNA, BC, Feb. 22, 2022 /CNW/ – In a country as large as Canada, air connectivity is critical to the prosperity of all Canadians. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted regional air transportation ecosystems, affecting economies, communities and businesses across the country.

The Government of Canada’s Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI), launched in March 2021, is fostering access to air transportation and supporting regional ecosystems.

BC’s regional airports get an economic boost (CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada)

Regional air ecosystem to benefit from funding

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, announced RATI funding of over $18.8 million in federal support for 11 airports and two air carriers in B.C.

Regional airports and carriers provide a vital service, providing commercial flight access, supporting critical supply chains and promoting economic growth. They connect patients to needed medical care and enable essential work travel. They provide important emergency services and cargo operations to supply businesses and frontline workers.

This funding will ensure airports and carriers can continue essential routine maintenance and facility operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. It will help maintain employment and restore growth in the region as we work to build back from the pandemic.

Regional air transportation is key to the economic development of communities and businesses across Canada. This investment shows the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting economic development across the country and fostering sustainable, inclusive growth for all.

Quote(s)

“Air transportation is essential to community well-being and regional economic development. Today’s announcement will not only enhance airport safety and support our essential services but will also create jobs that British Columbians can rely on and bolster regional growth as we recover from the effects of the pandemic.”

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

“It is essential that different levels of government partner to stimulate the economy as we recover from COVID-19. The Kelowna International Airport plays a critical role in supporting economic development in Kelowna and the region.”

–        Mayor Basran, City of Kelowna

“Thank you to the federal government for providing funding to these regional airports and airlines in B.C. This funding is critical to maintain and rebuild connectivity throughout Canada.”

–       Monette Pasher, Interim President, Canadian Airports Council 

“In my role as Airports Council International – North America Chair, I am working with my colleagues across North America as our industry recovers from COVID-19. Investments in aviation, such as the one being made by the federal government today, not only support the recovery of these airports and airlines, but also their surrounding communities.”

–       Sam Samaddar, Director, Kelowna International Airport

Projects being funded:

Legal Name	City	Funding
Stikine Airport Society-Dease Lake Airport	Dease Lake	$328,322
Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot-Tofino / Long Beach Airport	Tofino	$328,322
City of Abbotsford-Abbotsford International Airport	Abbotsford	$2,320,000
Kelowna International Airport	Kelowna	$3,261,330
Town of Smithers-Smithers Regional Airport	Smithers	$505,616
City of Williams Lake-Williams Lake Regional Airport	Williams Lake	$130,000
Pacific Coastal Airlines Limited	Richmond	$5,098,602
Central Mountain Air Ltd., 580741 British Columbia Ltd.	Smithers	$5,000,000
The City of Castlegar-West Kootenay Regional Airport	Castlegar	$524,200
The Corporation of the City of Cranbrook-Canadian Rockies International Airport	Cranbrook	$609,584
Northern Rockies Regional Municipality-Northern Rockies Regional Airport	Fort Nelson	$328,322
Cariboo Regional District-Cariboo Regional Airport	Anahim Lake	$54,720
City of Quesnel-Quesnel Regional Airport	Quesnel	$326,518
Total:	$18,811,536

Quick facts

• The Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI) 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.
• It is delivered by regional development agencies across Canada, including Pacific Economic Development Canada, the new regional development agency dedicated to British Columbia.
• RATI complements measures implemented by Transport Canada.

Associated links

• Regional Air Transportation Initiative
• Pacific Economic Development Canada
• Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan

Commercial airliner diverted during high-speed chase in the Fraser Valley

From The Vancouver Sun 🔗 link to source story

The chopper followed the SUV and worked with air traffic controllers at Abbotsford’s airport to redirect an incoming Swoop Airlines flight that was in the helicopter’s flight path.

The Canadian Press  •  February 10, 2022

Photo by City of Abbotsford /PNG

Police say a man has been charged following a high-speed chase that ended with a collision with a police vehicle in Langley.

Abbotsford police said in a news release that an RCMP helicopter was following a sport utility vehicle with mismatched licence plates Tuesday that was later confirmed to be stolen.

They say the Mounties alerted them to the chase and Abbotsford police officers attempted a traffic stop on the ground, at which point the driver sped away.

Police say the helicopter followed the SUV and worked with air traffic controllers at Abbotsford’s airport to get a course change for an incoming Swoop Airlines flight that was in the helicopter’s flight path.

Police allege the SUV was observed driving into oncoming traffic labes to pass vehicles, using the shoulder of the road, going through red lights and stop signs, and driving at high speeds that put other motorists at risk.

An hour after the chase began, they say the SUV collided with a police vehicle in Langley, but Abbotsford police say neither the driver nor the officer were injured.

They say the driver drove a few more blocks, then fled on foot and was taken into custody with help from police dogs.

A 39-year-old Surrey man has been charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, possession of stolen property over $5,000, breach of probation and prohibited driving.

Flair Airlines Brings the Heat: Service begins to Cancun & Los Cabos

• Canada’s everyday low fare airline launches weekly service to Cancun from Kitchener-Waterloo and Ottawa and to Los Cabos from Abbotsford, Edmonton, and Vancouver
• One-way flights to Mexico start at $109
• Flair’s service launch is timely; the average temperature in Mexico in February is 27 Celsius

Edmonton, Alberta, February 5, 2022 – This weekend, Flair Airlines, Canada’s everyday low fare airline, kicks off service to two new sun destinations, Cancun and Los Cabos. Weekly service to Cancun International Airport from Kitchener-Waterloo and Ottawa, and to Los Cabos International Airport from Abbotsford, Edmonton, and Vancouver. 

“Expanding to Mexico is part of Flair’s exciting growth strategy and we’re very happy to be launching service there. Canadians are tired of the ice and snow, and our affordable fares will help make it possible to take a trip,” said Garth Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Flair Airlines. “With one-way fares starting at $109, we’re making it easier than ever for Canadians to chase the sun in Mexico.”

“Service launch to Mexico couldn’t come at a better time, honestly,” added Stephen Jones, Chief Executive Officer of Flair Airlines. “We deployed a proprietary algorithm to determine that Canadians want to escape the cold, right now!”

Non-stop service to Cancun from Ottawa International Airport begins on February 5 and from Region of Waterloo International Airport on February 6. Flights to Los Cabos from Abbotsford Airport, Edmonton International Airport, and Vancouver International airport begin on February 5.

“We are so pleased to see the growth of the interest of Canadian airlines in bringing access from new Canadian cities to Los Cabos,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director for Los Cabos Tourism Board. “With multiple certifications and strict protocol in place, Los Cabos has and continues to be a safe and attractive destination for those that choose to travel abroad. Canada continues to be one of our priority markets and with multiple new flights it’s easier than ever to travel to Los Cabos,” he said.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Flair Airlines’ new nonstop service to Los Cabos International Airport in Mexico from Vancouver and expect it will be a very popular route with passengers here in B.C.,” said Russell Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development, Vancouver Airport Authority. “Flair’s continued growth at YVR reflects its exciting destinations and affordable fares, which we know are both equally important to travellers. We look forward to Flair’s continued success as it connects our community to even more destinations.”

Mexico Routes:

February 5

• Abbotsford – Los Cabos (YXX-SJD) 1x weekly
• Edmonton – Los Cabos (YEG-SJD) 1x weekly
• Vancouver – Los Cabos (YVR-SJD) 1x weekly
• Ottawa – Cancun (YOW-CUN) 1x weekly

February 6

• Kitchener-Waterloo – Cancun (YKF-CUN) 1x weekly

One-way fares, including taxes and fees, begin at $109. There are limited seats and availability for the fares, which are one-way fares, including taxes plus additional options and services passengers may choose. All routes are available for booking at https://www.flyflair.com.

About Flair Airlines

Flair Airlines is on a mission to provide affordable air travel to Canadians 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.