11/05/2024
NEWS RELEASE: West Kootenay Regional Airport Flight Disruption Shuttle Returns
The West Kootenay Regional Airport and Air Canada are pleased to announce the return of Air Canada’s flight disruption shuttle this winter season.
This offers travellers a dependable alternative when flights are cancelled due to challenging winter weather. Providing shuttle transport to Kelowna helps Air Canada passengers complete their journeys and will be available throughout the winter season.
Since its launch in 2023, the shuttle has helped over 1,800 passengers reach their destinations, with a 90% success rate in completing their journey last winter. This success has led to the shuttle’s return, supporting travellers whose plans might otherwise be impacted by winter weather.
“Air Canada’s goal is to deliver reliable options that get our customers on their way, even in challenging conditions,” says Ranbir Singh, Director-Regional Airlines & Markets at Air Canada. “The flight disruption shuttle through Kelowna represents our commitment to ensuring dependable travel for Castlegar and the West Kootenay region, helping our passengers reach their destinations safely and efficiently.”
“This shuttle service has transformed winter travel for our community, making it easier for travellers to get where they need to go regardless of the weather,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin of Castlegar. “The City and the West Kootenay Regional Airport are proud to partner with Air Canada in bringing this essential service back, ensuring peace of mind and reliable options for all who travel through our region.”
The shuttle has already received positive feedback from travellers. Suzanna, a recent passenger, shared, “At the end of my vacation visiting family in Nelson, my flight from Castlegar was cancelled due to bad weather, and I was worried I wouldn’t make it home on time. The shuttle made the entire experience much easier, and I arrived in Kelowna with plenty of time to catch my connecting flight. Knowing there’s a reliable option, I wouldn’t hesitate to book my next trip out of Castlegar.”
The West Kootenay Regional Airport is also making steady progress toward implementing a Required Navigational Performance (RNP) approach. This approach will enhance flight accessibility and reduce cancellations by enabling aircraft to navigate precise GPS-guided flight paths. Transport Canada has signalled its intent to move forward and is actively engaged in the review process. Once in place, the RNP solution will reduce cancellations caused by river and valley fog, increase successful landings, and support the airport’s long-term growth.
