Three communities in northwestern Ontario aim to restore commercial flights after Bearskin Airlines left, using surveys and a feasibility study.
Communities Collaborate to Restore Air Connectivity
Three municipalities in northwestern Ontario—Dryden, Kenora, and Fort Frances—are joining forces to attract a new commercial airline, following Bearskin Airlines’ departure in May 2024. The airline cited declining demand as the reason for suspending services, leaving residents reliant on distant airports in Thunder Bay or Winnipeg.
Funding and Feasibility Study Underway
The City of Dryden, with support from FedNor, has commissioned InterVISTAS Consulting Inc. to conduct an air service feasibility study, expected to be completed by year-end. The study will analyze market demand, regional needs, and economic implications to support the case for a new carrier.
Roger Nesbitt, Dryden’s chief administrative officer, noted, “It’s probably a fairly unique thing to have multiple airports collaborating on something like this.” The study will include a stakeholder survey to gather public and business input, with residents encouraged to complete the online survey by September 26.
Regional Hubs Struggling Without Air Service
Fort Frances Mayor Andrew Hallikas highlighted the challenges of operating without commercial flights. The town has lost critical funding from the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), which is vital to maintaining airport infrastructure.
“We’re a regional hub. Hundreds of medevac flights use this airport annually, along with ministry aircraft for forest fire response,” Hallikas said. “Commercial flights are essential for economic reinvention, bringing in personnel, supplies, and tourism.”
Economic Implications for Northwestern Ontario
The absence of commercial flights is affecting the region’s growth in forestry, mining, and tourism. Nesbitt explained that transportation barriers deter business investment and complicate the movement of employees and consultants.
InterVISTAS Consulting is hosting focus groups across all three municipalities to capture detailed local insights. Hallikas observed that while each town has unique requirements, there is a clear regional need for reliable air service.
Considering Government Support
Given the critical role of air connectivity, Hallikas suggested that a government-subsidized carrier may be necessary. “There’s no reason why the government shouldn’t subsidize service to create a level playing field for small, rural northern communities,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Once the feasibility study concludes, officials hope to begin discussions with potential carriers early next year, aiming to restore convenient air service and support regional economic growth.
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