Region of Waterloo International Airport | 106,321 Passengers (2009)

[YKF]

Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)
1-4881 Fountain Street North, Breslau
www.waterlooairport.ca
Business Plan 2009-2014 (PDF) (http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/abouttheairport/resources/Airport%20Business%20Plan%202009.pdf)
NAV CANADA (www.navcanada.ca)

http://waterlooairport.ca/en/images/structure/logo.jpg

Passenger Numbers

Year | Domestic | Transborder | Other International | Total
2007 (http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/51-203-x/2007000/t009-eng.htm) | 49,863 | 27,893 | 13,811 | 91,567
2008 (http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/51-203-x/2008000/t009-eng.htm) | 82,274 | 25,230 | 11,429 | 118,933
2009 (http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/51-203-x/2009000/t009-eng.htm) | 88,634 | 7,588 | 10,099 | 106,321Route Map

http://wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/YKF%20Route%20Map%20-%20December%2013,%202011.jpg

Carriers
http://www.eyefortravel.com/files/pictures/Westjet-logo_0.jpg | Daily Service to Calgary (with connections to Victoria, Vancouver, Kelowna, Abbotsford, Edmonton, Regina and Saskatoon) Daily Seasonal Service to Vancouver (began June 27, 2010)

http://www.superioredgehockey.com/upload/images/bearskin-airlines_logo.jpg | Non-stop Daily to Ottawa: Mon - Fri 5 flights / Sun 3 flights / Sat 1 flight

http://www.avcanada.ca/directory/logo/192.jpg | Seasonal Service to Punta Cana (December - April)


Airport Guide

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/airportlayoutANDPARKINGdrkblue%20Resized.jpg

[UrbanWaterloo]

Recent News:

http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/SunwingReturns.asp
For Immediate Release August 11, 2009
Sunwing returns to the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

Waterloo Region - The Region of Waterloo International Airport is proud to announce the return of Sunwing Vacations, which will provide weekly non-stop service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic aboard their Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Rated one of the fastest-growing companies in the country by Profit Magazine for the fourth consecutive year, Sunwing is 100 per cent Canadian owned and operated.

With Sunwing Airline's Elite in-flight service your ticket price includes amenities such as a complimentary bon voyage glass of champagne, a choice of hot meals served with wine, in-flight entertainment and comfortable leather seating throughout the aircraft. In Punta Cana, vacationers will have a choice of 29 all-inclusive resorts with Sunwing Vacations.

"We're delighted to be offering flights out of Kitchener this winter, and area travel agents are telling us they think Punta Cana, with its famous beaches, will be a big hit," says Daryl McWilliams, Vice President Sales and Marketing for Sunwing. "Plus we're looking forward to welcoming area residents on board to experience our 'more frills' Elite in-flight service."

Following are the schedule details for the Kitchener-Waterloo winter program:

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)

Wednesday: Depart 4:45 p.m. / Arrive 8:45 p.m. Local Time

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)

Wednesday: Depart 12:10 p.m. / Arrive 3:35 p.m. Local Time



http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/BearskinIncreaseService.asp
For Immediate Release September 4, 2009
Bearskin Airlines adds additional flights to Ottawa from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

Waterloo Region - To celebrate the 2nd Anniversary of Bearskin Airlines' Ottawa service, the airline will increase service from three flights to four flights each business day. Sunday service will also be increased from one flight to two flights. In addition to the extra frequency, flight times have been enhanced to better meet customer preferences and facilitate improved connections to Northeastern Ontario via Ottawa and improve reliability.

"It is great to see Bearskin Airlines' Ottawa air service enhanced," said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. "The increased frequency will provide greater convenience for our community and save precious travel time by providing a local alternative for air travellers."

The high frequency service offered by the Airline and participation in the Aeroplan Frequent Flyer Program are geared to serving the business community who commute regularly between Waterloo Region and Ottawa. Effective September 28, 2009, Bearskin will provide a 6:15 p.m. departure out of each market, extending the work day to better suit the needs of Bearskin's frequent flyers.

"Our customers have been asking us for more flight options between Waterloo and Ottawa, especially more choices in the evening and an earlier morning departure from Ottawa," said Ron Hell, Director of Marketing & Sales for Bearskin Airlines. "We're certain that these schedule enhancements will dramatically increase the value of our service to the business community."

Following are the schedule details of Bearskin's enhanced non-stop service:

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Ottawa (YOW)

Monday to Friday - Dep. 7:20 a.m. / Arr. 8:30 a.m.
Monday to Saturday - Dep. 10:15 a.m. / Arr. 11:25 a.m.
Sunday to Friday - Dep. 4:30 p.m. / Arr. 5:40 p.m.
Sunday to Friday - Dep. 6:15 p.m. / Arr. 7:25 p.m.

Ottawa (YOW) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)

Monday to Friday - Dep. 7:20 a.m. / Arr. 8:30 a.m.
Monday to Saturday - Dep. 10:30 a.m. / Arr. 11:40 a.m.
Sunday to Friday - Dep. 4:30 p.m. / Arr. 5:40 p.m.
Sunday to Friday - Dep. 6:15 p.m. / Arr. 7:25 p.m.


http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/OntarioPartnership.asp
For Immediate Release October 26, 2009
http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/resources/GovernmentOfCanadaLogoSM.jpg http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/resources/OntarioLogoSM.jpg
CANADA—ONTARIO PARTNERSHIP CREATES JOBS, STIMULATES ECONOMY IN WATERLOO REGION

BRESLAU, ONTARIO - Residents of The Regional Municipality of Waterloo will benefit from federal and provincial infrastructure funding to construct a new combined Airport/Fleet Maintenance and Fire Hall Services Facility, announced today by Harold Albrecht, MP for Kitchener-Conestoga and Leeanna Pendergast, MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga. The governments of Canada and Ontario will each invest up to $2,366,666.67 million in the project.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, our Government is getting shovels in the ground here in Waterloo Region and getting the economy moving as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan," said MP Albrecht. "We are helping to create jobs today by investing in the new Airport/Fleet Maintenance and Fire Hall Services Facility. This announcement builds on the projects we have announced across the region, including needed new buildings at our post-secondary institutions, and road and bridge renewal. The common element is that these projects were identified by our local partners as their priorities."

"Under the strong leadership of Premier Dalton McGuinty, Ontario is making historical infrastructure investments across the province and we have been since 2003," said Leeanna Pendergast, MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga. "Investing in this project will create jobs now and help stimulate our local economy. Over the longer term we are also working hard to create a competitive advantage that attracts business and strengthens Ontario's economy."

Regional Chair Ken Seilling was happy to see the improvements to the airport moving forward, saying that, "We are pleased that the Federal and Provincial Governments are partnering with us to improve facilities at our Airport, an important part of our economic infrastructure."

The new facility will meet precision approach landing regulations, and accommodate on-site emergency vehicles. Ridership at the airport continues to grow. These investments will ensure it has the infrastructure necessary for continued safe, predictable operations.

Federal and provincial funding for this project will come from the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund which provides funding to provincial, territorial and municipal construction-ready infrastructure rehabilitation projects that will be built during the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.

The Governments of Canada and Ontario are investing close to $11 billion in joint funding for more than 2,600 projects through such programs as the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, Building Canada Fund - Communities Component and Major Infrastructure Component, Knowledge Infrastructure Program and RINC/Ontario REC. These historical investments will help support job creation and strengthen Ontario's economy.


-30-


http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/WestJetToVancouver.asp
For Immediate Release December 17, 2009
WestJet adds Vancouver non-stop daily service from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)

Waterloo Region - As part of an enhanced summer schedule WestJet, Canada's leading low cost airline announced yesterday that they will launch seasonal non-stop daily service to Vancouver from the Region of Waterloo International Airport starting June 27, 2010.

The addition of the Vancouver flight will provide guest's travelling from Waterloo Region with the option to connect on to a number of destinations in the United States including Las Vegas, San Francisco, Los Angeles and even Honolulu.

WestJet launched non-stop daily service to Calgary from Waterloo Region in May 2007 providing connections through their hub in Calgary to a number of Western Canadian destinations including Vancouver, Edmonton, Victoria, Abbotsford, Kelowna, Regina and Saskatoon.

"Vancouver non-stop service is a welcome addition and the morning departure time compliments our evening Calgary service and opens up connections to a number of destinations previously unavailable from our Airport," said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair.

"Passengers can now travel non-stop to 3 major Canadian cities from the Region, saving a lot of time and expense driving to other airports," said Chris Wood, Airport General Manager. "We look forward to further increasing the options available to local residents in the coming months."

"Thanks to strong community support for our Calgary service we are proud to announce the addition of service to Vancouver from the Region of Waterloo International Airport as part of our enhanced summer schedule," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet's Executive Vice-President, Strategy and Planning. "We're very pleased to offer the people of Waterloo Region the chance to enjoy some time on the Lower Mainland at an affordable price with a great schedule and daily non-stop service."

The schedule details of WestJet's new seasonal non-stop service from Kitchener-Waterloo to Vancouver, effective June 27, 2010, are as follows:

Kitchener-Waterloo to Vancouver (daily) - Introductory fares starting at $189 (taxes and surcharges extra)

Flight - Departure - Arrival

From Kitchener-Waterloo - 7:00 a.m. - 8:59 a.m.
From Vancouver - 4:30 p.m. - 11:42 p.m.


The schedule details of WestJet's year round non-stop service from Kitchener-Waterloo to Calgary are as follows:

Kitchener-Waterloo to Calgary (daily)

Flight - Departure - Arrival

From Kitchener-Waterloo - 6:25 p.m. - 8:31 p.m.
From Calgary - 12:15 p.m. - 5:47 p.m.


More detailed information about WestJet's enhanced summer schedule and low introductory fares is available at www.westjet.com. Seats are available for sale immediately and can be booked online at www.westjet.com or through travel agents.

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 67-city North American and Caribbean network. Named one of Canada's most admired corporate cultures in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 85 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft.

Take the hassle out of your next flight and choose your local alternative! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate with modern amenities including free high-speed wireless internet, low cost parking, gourmet food concession operated by Edelweiss and complimentary baggage carts. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service.

Details of the WestJet agreement are subject to approval by Regional Council and will be reviewed at the January 5, 2010 meeting.


-30-

[UrbanWaterloo]

Airport manager has loft goals for facility
January 31, 2010
By Frances Barrick, Record staff
http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/665403

Chris Wood has soaring goals for the Waterloo Regional International Airport.

As the new airport manager, he wants the Breslau facility to become a hub of activity for passengers.

“My goal is to have to rebuild this terminal and make it bigger” because it is so busy, the Brantford native said in a recent interview.

Since Woods took over the job in September, he has persuaded WestJet to add a daily flight to Vancouver starting June 27 and he’s negotiating with eight other airline carriers to provide service from Waterloo Region to parts of North America.

But growth comes at a cost, and in this case it is the provision of firefighting services at the airport.

Last year, the airport handled 106,406 passengers with its WestJet daily service to Calgary, Bearskin Airlines daily flights to Ottawa, and more recently, weekly flights to Dominican Republic through vacation company Sunwing.

The daily flights to Vancouver could add 40,000 passengers a year, bringing the total number of passengers closer to 180,000, the number at which the federal government mandates that an airport must have an in-house, full-time fire department, said Wood, 37.

Currently, the airport contracts a private firefighting service to be on hand when large airplanes use the facility. The airport has its own firefighting equipment, he said.

The airport is located in Woolwich Township, but Wood said the township’s volunteer fire departments are not willing to provide full-time fire service at the airport.

A report on airport fire services is slated to be before regional council this month, listing options ranging from continuing to use a private fire service to developing a fire department at the airport, he said.

“It is difficult to attract airlines here when you don’t have an on-site fire department,” Wood said.

“My wish would be to have a full-time fire service here,” he said. “But I know it is a contentious issue.”

He said it does not give him a “warm and fuzzy feeling” knowing it could take up to 20 minutes for the closest fire department to respond if a small plane crashes.

In Sudbury, that municipal airport decided to train their maintenance staff to be firefighters when that facility reached 180,000 passengers, Wood said. That option could also be considered here, he said.

Ironically, his first job in the aviation industry was at the Breslau airport.

Wood was a 23-year-old airport-management student at Georgian College in Barrie when he spent a co-op placement at the Waterloo-Wellington Flying Club. He also learned to fly and flew his first solo flight here.

“I feel pretty proud that I am able to come back,” he said.

Another co-op position was at the Victoria airport where an employee took him under his wing and taught him everything about running an airport, lessons that have stayed with him today.

In May 1997, Wood got a job with Greater Toronto Airports Authority which operates Pearson International Airport. He oversaw emergency services at the Toronto airport.

Six years later, he helped oversee the building of Terminal 1 at Pearson, a project that was so successful, that Wood became part of a consulting team that assisted in the development of similar projects at Heathrow Airport in England, Dubai Department of Civil Aviation and at JFK International Airport in New York City.

Then the recession hit in 2008, and the consulting work dried up. Wood decided to look for another job.

He was offered work at a number of airports, but it meant moving across Canada and he wanted to be close to his family in Brantford.

The job as airport manager here was perfect, said Wood, a father of two young children who is moving to Ayr this month. The position pays $90,217 to $112,767 a year.

“I am thrilled,” Wood said. “I really have my dream job.”

One of his first tasks, he said, was launching an advertising campaign to educate local residents about the airport.

“The biggest issue I was facing is that people don’t know this place exists, and if they do know it exists, they don’t know they could fly out of here,” he said.

Wood said this growing region is ripe for carriers to offer flights here.

“My job is to make sure the airlines know this airport exists and what potential is here for their businesses,” he said.

Regional council recently approved financial incentives for airlines to come here. “The idea is for them (airlines) not to lose money,” Wood said.

Another untapped market is vacation charters, he said.

“The airport can only go up.”

[Spokes]

Great to see this guy has a vision greatness for the airport. Can't wait to see how things develop and grow.

[Spokes]

Am I the only one that thinks a flight to Montreal would be quite successful out of YKF?

[plam]

Am I the only one that thinks a flight to Montreal would be quite successful out of YKF?

I go to Montreal all the time, and there isn't really any good way of going there. Either if the train to Toronto was better or if there was a plane, I'd be much happier.

I don't know how big the market would actually be though.

[Spokes]

I'd really like to see a flight offered by WestJet from Kitchener to Ottawa. Bearskin flys this but their prices aren't great. Westjet flys Toronto to Ottawa for 166, Bearskin YKF to ottawa is like 350.

[plam]

I'd really like to see a flight offered by WestJet from Kitchener to Ottawa. Bearskin flys this but their prices aren't great. Westjet flys Toronto to Ottawa for 166, Bearskin YKF to ottawa is like 350.

I'm pretty sure that $166 is a loss-leader price that they can afford to offer due to volume and competition with AC. WestJet's normal price is more like $350. It's not clear to me that YKF-YOW would have the volume to have such prices.

[UrbanWaterloo]

SUBJECT: AIRPORT FEE STRUCTURE REVIEW
Report: E-10-018 http://region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/5E7A6106A5C4A0C5852576C8005D5BB3/$file/E-10-018.pdf?openelement
REGION OF WATERLOO TRANSPORATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Transportation
TO: Chair Jim Wideman and Members of the Planning and Works Committee
DATE: February 16, 2010

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the revised schedule fees and supplemental charges at the Region of Waterloo International Airport (ROWIA) as per Appendix A of Report E-10-018 dated February 16, 2010, effective April 1, 2010.

AND THAT the notice of the intent to amend the Region’s Fees and Charges (By-law 10-001 as amended) as set out in Report E-10-018 dated February 16, 2010, be published in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act.

SUMMARY:

The last major review of the complete fee structure at the Region of Waterloo International Airport was completed in 2003. Regional Airport staff have completed a review of the fee structure and is recommending a revised schedule of fees as noted in Appendix A.


Planning and Works Committee - February 16, 2010 Minutes
http://region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/a65c85053fb2091b852576cf0052d270!OpenDocument

c) E-10-018 Airport Fee Structure Review

John Hammer, Director, Transportation indicated to Committee that the review was not part of the budget process because the review was not started until late 2009 and staff was unsure of what the review was going to show. J. Hammer did highlight that there will be a loss of revenue in part of the landing fees but there will be revenue in additional fees that have been added.

Committee members discussed the low cost of parking at the airport and appreciated having no fee for ½ hour parking.

Committee members also inquired about vendors applying to have a liquor license. Staff indicated they were not aware of any vendors applying for liquor licenses only for special events, but would look into this.

MOVED by B. Strauss
SECONDED by K. Seiling

THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the revised schedule fees and supplemental charges at the Region of Waterloo International Airport (ROWIA) as per Appendix A of Report E-10-018 dated February 16, 2010, effective April 1, 2010.

AND THAT the notice of the intent to amend the Region’s Fees and Charges (By-law 10-001 as amended) as set out in Report E-10-018 dated February 16, 2010, be published in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act.

CARRIED

[UrbanWaterloo]

SUBJECT: REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – COMBINED SERVICES FACILITY SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS
REGION OF WATERLOO FINANCE DEPARTMENT: Procurement & Supply Services Division
TO: Regional Chair Ken Seiling and Members of Regional Council
DATE: April 14, 2010
Report: F-10-032 (http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/DAC976351C9929E8852577000056F78F/$file/F-10-032.pdf?openelement)

RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo authorize staff to extend the agreement with E & E Seegmiller based on unit rates in Tender T2010-009, by an upset limit of $1,000,000 plus all applicable taxes and disbursements, for the site development work for the Airport Combined Services Facility.

REPORT:
The Airport Combined Services Facility planning and design is progressing quickly to meet the funding requirements of the Infrastructure Stimulus Funding (ISF) deadline of March 31, 2011. It is expected that design will be completed in April 2010 with construction commencing in June. MMM Group, as consultant for both the Airport Combined Services Facility and the Reconstruction of Taxiway Charlie, Apron I, Drainage improvements and Runway 08 Simple Approach Lighting System, has recommended an extension of contract T2010-009 to E & E Seegmiller due to the competitive rates that were quoted, to advance the site development and servicing work for this project. T2010-009 was awarded by Council on March 24, 2010, Report F-10-019. The March 24th tender awarded the contract to the low bidder (6 bids received) and this component of the project was 18% under budget. The additional work would be paid from the Airport Combined Services Facility project.

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo Purchasing By-law supports the extension of an existing or previous contract where it proves more cost effective or beneficial for the Region, as noted in Part VII-Purchase by Negotiation, Section 21(g).

The extension of the contract advances the beginning of construction, helping to meet the aggressive timelines of this ISF project. The tendered unit rates are less than currently estimated for the work by the Cost Consultant and have been deemed competitive through the tendering process. The contractor will already be on-site and therefore would preclude paying separate startup and mobilization costs. The original estimate for this component of the project was $1.25 million; however, based on anticipated savings, the requested extension is for up to $1.0 million plus applicable taxes and disbursements.

CORPORATE STRATEGIC PLAN:
The Airport Combined Services Facility project supports the Corporate Strategic Plan Focus Area 5 - Infrastructure by “providing high quality infrastructure and asset management to meet current needs and future growth.”

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The Airport Combined Services Facility project has a $9,090,692 approved budget of which two-thirds is funded through the Infrastructure Stimulus Funding program ($6,090,692) and one-third by debenturing financing ($3,000,000). The $1,000,000 component of this project is well within the $1,250,000 original component budget.

[UrbanWaterloo]

http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/resources/GreatLakesLogo.jpg
GREAT LAKES HELICOPTER CORP.
12 - 4881 Fountain St. N.,
Region of Waterloo International Airport
Breslau, Ontario, Canada N0B 1M0
Telephone: (519) 648-3732

Conestoga College and Great Lakes Helicopter announceHelicopter Pilot Training Program
For Immediate Release April 6, 2010
http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/GreatLakesConestogaCollege.asp

Conestoga College will be expanding its Aviation program to include pilot training on helicopters. Starting this September, aviation students who want to acquire both a commercial pilot's licence and receive a College diploma can enrol in this joint program. It is being conducted through a partnership arrangement between Conestoga College and Great Lakes Helicopter, which operates out of the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

A similar and very successful partnership arrangement has existed between Conestoga College and the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC) since 1996. Graduates of this program receive their Ontario College Diploma for the General Arts and Science Aviation program and their commercial pilot training leading to a Transport Canada pilot's licence through WWFC. Under this new arrangement, students will now be able to enrol in the same program at Conestoga College, but will now have the option of completing their Commercial pilot licence training through either WWFC on fixed wing aircraft or through Great Lakes Helicopter on helicopters.

"Great Lakes Helicopter is delighted to be working with Conestoga College and the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre in this joint venture," said Bill Leyburne, President. "The addition of this program thru the hard work and professionalism of the parties involved will establish the Region of Waterloo Airport as one of the pre-eminent pilot training centres in the country."
Great Lakes Helicopter is a Transport Canada approved, Private Career College Flight Training School and Charter operation based at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

Nick Booth, CFI and our staff of reliable professionals has helped Great Lakes Helicopter flourish into a successful helicopter flight training operation. We pride ourselves on our safe, professional staff and well maintained helicopters.

Currently, we offer a fleet that consists of three Robinson R22's, two Robinson R44's and Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter, which allow us to perform a wide variety of operations to suit most people's needs.

Official signing ceremony to be held today, Tuesday, April 6, 11:00 a.m.

For more information, please contact:
Jo Anne Leyburne, General Manager, Great Lakes Helicopter
joanne@greatlakeshelicopter.ca or 519-648-3732

[UrbanWaterloo]

WestJet One Day Sale!
http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/$All/43521FEE94CCDA648525770B00701ED0?OpenDocument
http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/646992a6b2d4dea085256e590071a3e9/43521fee94ccda648525770b00701ed0/Body/0.84!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=jpg


Bearskin: Beat The HST Sale
http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/

[UrbanWaterloo]

T2010-123 AIRPORT COMBINED SERVICES FACILITY
REGION OF WATERLOO FINANCE DEPARTMENT: Procurement & Supply Services Division
TO: Regional Chair Ken Seiling and Members of Regional Council
DATE: May 26, 2010 | Report: F-10-050 (http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/001526A6CCAB12458525772A0056FA0C/$file/F-10-050.pdf?openelement)

RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo accept the tender of Gateman-Milloy Inc. for T2010-123 Airport Combined Services Facility at the Region of Waterloo International Airport for a total stipulated price of $7,859,869.00 plus applicable taxes.

REPORT:
Tenders were called for the Airport Combined Services Facility at the Region of Waterloo International Airport and were opened in the presence of K. Lane, C. Allen and L. Wilson. Advertisements for this tender were placed in the Record, the Region’s website and the Ontario Public Buyers Association website. The following tenders were received:

Gateman-Milloy Inc. Kitchener, ON $7,859,869.00
Devlan Construction Ltd. Guelph, ON $8,500,000.00
Melloul Blamey Construction Inc. Waterloo, ON $8,706,000.00
Kiwi Newton Construction Guelph, ON $9,660,159.64
Merit Contractors Niagara St. Catharines, ON $9,835,000.00
The above contractors were pre-qualified for this tender. The work of this contract is to construct a new combined services facility including approximately 11,000 sq. feet of maintenance and vehicle storage bays, 5,500 sq. feet of fire hall and 8,000 sq. feet of office, change rooms and storage space, and associated site work. The Region intends to pursue a minimum LEED® Silver Certification for this project. Construction is expected to commence in Spring 2010, subject to appropriate approvals and permits, with completion in Spring 2011. This is an aggressive construction schedule that is driven by the Infrastructure Stimulus Funding program timelines.

CORPORATE STRATEGIC PLAN: The Airport Combined Services Facility project supports the Corporate Strategic Plan Focus Area 5 – Infrastructure by “providing high quality infrastructure and asset management to meet current needs and future growth.”

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:

T2010-123 Airport Combined Services Facility $ 7,859,869.00
Other Construction 1,300,000.00
Consulting Fees 855,000.00
Ancillary Project Costs 150,000.00
Regional Engineering 350,000.00
Furniture and Equipment 200,000.00
Sub-total $10,714,869.00
Plus: Estimated GST for work completed prior to July 1, 2010 (5%) 39,299.35
Plus: Estimated HST for work completed prior to July 1, 2010 (13%) 919,604.67
Sub-total $11,673,773.02
Less: Municipal Rebate of GST (5%) (39,299.35)
Less: Municipal Rebate of 86.46 of HST (11.24%) (795,104.35)
Total $10,839,369.32
The tender price includes $150,000 for a fuelling system that will be paid out of a separate budget that has been included in the above project total. Other construction costs include $1,000,000 for site development work that was advanced due to the competitive rates received for tender T2010-009 (further outlined in report F-10-032) and $300,000 for hydro and gas service to the site and system relocations needed to meet NavCanada requirements. Consulting fees include design for the project, disbursements, cost consulting and other specialized consultants. Ancillary project costs include permits, approvals and general administration fees. Furniture and equipment costs include office and meeting room furniture and equipment, storage systems, maintenance tools, telecommunications and security. As part of the tender review process, the line items noted above have been reviewed in detail and reduced as appropriate based on current estimates of overall project requirements. The Airport Combined Services Facility project budget of $10,841,000 includes an approved budget of $10,691,000 over the years 2010/2011 and an additional $150,000 from a Finance fueling budget. It is anticipated that once the balance of the tenders have been received that the project will be on budget. Financing for the project includes $4,733,334 federal and provincial Infrastructure Stimulus Funding for the combined facility with the remaining financed from debentures. The final date of acceptance for this tender is July 16, 2010.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Tickets NOW on sale for the Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show
Father's Day weekend ‐ June 19 & 20, 2010
Canadian Forces Snowbirds highlight aerial line‐up
http://www.waterlooairshow.ca/media_2010_2.pdf

Waterloo ‐‐ May 10, 2010 ‐‐ Tickets for this summer's incredible aerial display, The Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show, taking place Father's Day weekend, June 19th and 20th, are now on sale at www.waterlooairshow.ca.
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will headline this spectacular two‐day event that will combine aerial and ground displays that will entertain, educate and inspire anyone who enjoys the thrill and power of flight. Mix in military power featuring modern jets, esteemed warbirds, incredible daredevil aerobatics, and top it off with a plane landing on a speeding motorhome ‐ and you have one of this summer's best reasons to head to the Waterloo International Airport!
Other highlights will include the B‐17 "Memphis Belle" Flying Fortress ‐‐ the formidable WWII bomber; a Navy Corsair ‐‐ representing the Canadian Navy's 100th anniversary in 2010; a Russian MiG‐15, a 1960s L‐29 Delfin military jet trainer and the much‐admired historic Harvards and Tiger Moths.
Come out early because the tarmac will be covered with static display ‐‐ additional aircraft that don't fly in the show, but allow people to see them up close, photograph them, talk to the pilots and crew, and sometimes climb aboard.
Highlighting the static display will be the Silver Dart ‐‐ a replica of the original Silver Dart that flew into history books 101 years ago as the first flying aircraft in Canada. This replica aircraft travelled across the country last year commemorating the 100th anniversary of powered flight in 2009.
All this, in addition to aviation displays and exhibits allowing the public to discover and explore military and civilian aviation up close.
The Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show will include food concessions, a Kids Zone, a beer tent and autograph signings. Don't forget to bring along your own chairs, sunscreen, hats and cameras. Don't miss this unique and exciting family outing!

DATE: Father's Day weekend: Saturday, June 19 & Sunday, June 20
TIME: Aviation Expo and static display open 9am ‐ 5pm. Air Show begins at 1pm.
WHERE: Region of Waterloo International Airport (directions on the web site).
COST: Adults $15/$18 (ages 17 and up) (online price versus walk‐up price)
Children $7/$10 (ages 6‐16) (online price versus walk‐up price)
Children under 6 FREE
Seniors/Veterans/Disabled $7/$10
Family $75 (advanced sales only; up to 6 people; includes 1 onsite parking.)
VIP Package $75 (advanced sales only; includes 1 onsite parking, VIP tent, catered lunch, cash bar, centre stage viewing, performer autographs. Spaces limited.)
Tickets can be purchased online at www.waterlooairshow.ca.
PARKING: Plenty of onsite and offsite parking will be available. (Free shuttle buses from offsite.)

For more information, the public can contact: www.waterlooairshow.ca | info@wwflightcentre.com | 1‐877‐359‐9932 (1‐877‐FLY‐WWFC)
The Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show is produced by the Waterloo‐Wellington Flight Centre and made possible by dozens of dedicated volunteers.

[Shawn]

** This is similar to a post made May 26th but this is a recent Press Release that contains additional information **
Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show
Offers entertainment for the whole family: three features in one
Father's Day weekend - June 19 & 20, 2010
Featuring the Canadian Forces Snowbirds!
http://waterlooairshow.ca/media_2010_4.pdf

Waterloo -- June 10, 2010 -- The Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show -- one of this summer's great family events -- offers three separate feature areas that collectively provide a full day of fun thrills for the whole family.

1) Air Show
Headlined by the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, this 3-hour event will entertain old and young with a mix of jets, historic warbirds, incredible daredevil aerobatics, and a comedy act that sees a plane landing on a speeding motorhome. A tribute will also be made to the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy.
2) Aviation Expo
Continuing with what the Waterloo-Wellington Flight Centre has been doing annually for years, the Aviation Expo will offer displays and exhibits allowing the public to discover and explore military and civilian aviation up close.
3) Static Display
The Static Display is additional aircraft, not flying in the air show, that are on display on the tarmac, for people to see them up close, photograph them, talk to the pilots and crew, and sometimes climb aboard. Highlighting the static display will be the Silver Dart -- a replica of the original Silver Dart that flew into history books 101 years ago as the first flying aircraft in Canada. This replica aircraft travelled across the country last year commemorating the 100th anniversary of powered flight in 2009.
All this, in addition to food concessions, a Kids Zone (including a baby change station), a beer tent and Snowbird autograph signings.

There are also some significant anniversaries taking place this year:


2010 is the 40th anniversary of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds
2010 is the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy
2010 is the 100th anniversary of air shows in North America

Come help us celebrate these milestones and enjoy what aviation was, and has become, over the years.
Also participating, will be an Aviation Swing Dance troupe, dressed in WWII-era costumes, performing at 10am and 12pm on Saturday.

TIME: Aviation Expo and static display open 9am - 5pm. Air Show runs 1pm to 4pm.
WHERE: Region of Waterloo International Airport (directions on the web site).
COST: Adults $15/$18 (ages 17 and up) (online price versus walk-up price)
Children $7/$10 (ages 6-16) (online price versus walk-up price)
Children under 6 FREE
Seniors/Veterans/Disabled $7/$10
Family $75 (advanced sales only; up to 6 people; includes 1 onsite
parking.)
VIP Package $75 (advanced sales only; includes 1 onsite parking, VIP tent,
catered lunch, cash bar, centre stage viewing, performer
autographs. Spaces limited.)
Tickets can be purchased online at www.waterlooairshow.ca.
PARKING: Plenty of offsite parking will be available, with free shuttle buses to the site.
Don't forget to bring along your own chairs, blankets, sunscreen, hats and cameras.

For more information, visit www.waterlooairshow.ca.
The Waterloo Aviation Expo & Air Show is produced by the Waterloo-Wellington Flight Centre and made possible by dozens of dedicated volunteers.

[Shawn]

I'm hearing the roar of jets! I hope someone is attending and posts some photos! :cool:

[cambridge-city-boy]

I cant wait until the airports has more flights to different international countries. It would be nice not to have to deal with the heavy Toronto traffic, it makes life unbearable at time haha.

[UrbanWaterloo]

WestJet Launches New Summer Service Between Waterloo Region and Vancouver
June 28, 2010 | http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/WestJetVancouver.asp

Waterloo Region - Today the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) and WestJet will celebrate the launch of their new seasonal daily non-stop service between Waterloo Region and Vancouver. The inaugural flight departs from the Region of Waterloo International Airport at 7 a.m. today.

"The start of WestJet's service to Vancouver from the Region of Waterloo International Airport is just in time for the start of the 2010 summer travel season," said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. "WestJet has been a great partner and the addition of non-stop flights to Vancouver offers even more convenience to those flying out of our Airport."

WestJet will fly daily summer seasonal service between Waterloo Region and Vancouver.

"Both Kitchener-Waterloo residents as well as residents of the lower mainland of British Columbia are very excited about WestJet's new service between the two regions," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Strategy and Planning. "As we enter the warmer months of the summer travel season, WestJet is pleased to provide low cost, high value travel opportunities to unite families and friends from different parts of our great country."

The schedule details of WestJet's new service are:

Vancouver - Kitchener-Waterloo (daily)
Flight | Departure | Arrival
From Vancouver - WS492 | 4:30 p.m. | 11:42 p.m.
From K-W - WS491 | 7 a.m. | 8:59 a.m.

One-way fares, available in both directions on non-stop flights only, are available from $209 plus applicable taxes and fees. Fares are available by calling WestJet's Sales Super Centre at 1-888-WESTJET (937-8538), your preferred travel agent or by visiting www.westjet.com.

As part of its 2010 summer schedule, WestJet is also continuing its year-round service from Kitchener-Waterloo to Calgary with one-way fares starting at $189, plus applicable fees and taxes.

Take the hassle out of your business and vacation travel and choose your local alternative! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate with modern amenities including high-speed wireless Internet, complimentary baggage carts and car rentals. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service.

Facebook Photos (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=181421&id=237773413610)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs316.snc3/28468_405597968610_237773413610_4405873_2340938_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs296.snc3/28468_405597973610_237773413610_4405874_6349488_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs316.snc3/28468_405597978610_237773413610_4405875_5439448_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs087.snc4/35729_405600128610_237773413610_4405900_1039272_n. jpg


WestJet launches new summer service between Kitchener-Waterloo and Vancouver
Airline makes first flight from the twin cities to the west coast
CALGARY | June 28, 2010 | http://westjet2.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=457

WestJet today announced the launch of new seasonal non-stop service between Kitchener-Waterloo and Vancouver. The inaugural flight departs from the Region of Waterloo International Airport at 7 a.m. EDT today.

"Both Kitchener-Waterloo residents and residents of the lower mainland of British Columbia are very excited about WestJet's new service between the two regions," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Strategy and Planning. "As we enter the warmer months of the summer travel season, WestJet is pleased to provide low-cost, high-value travel opportunities to unite families and friends from different parts of our great country."

WestJet will fly daily summer seasonal service between Kitchener-Waterloo and Vancouver.

"The start of WestJet's service to Vancouver from Region of Waterloo International Airport is just in time for the start of the 2010 summer travel season," said Ken Seiling, Airport Regional Chair. "WestJet has been a great partner and the addition of non-stop flights to Vancouver offers even more convenience to those flying out of our airport."

[panamaniac]

I hadn't realized that this was going to be a summer service only. Hope it wil justify going year-round before too long. That 2342hrs arrival time is going to leave a few annoyed people in the flightpath, I would bet. :eek:

[taylortbb]

I hadn't realized that this was going to be a summer service only.

The previous WestJet service launched as summer only too, then was changed before the summer was out. Hopefully we'll see the same.

[Section ThirtyOne]

I'm hoping to see the YKF-YVR route become a year round service as well. My wife and I typically only get to Van City once per year, and that is to go skiing in Whistler!

[IEFBR14]

I'm hoping to see the YKF-YVR route become a year round service as well.
Me too. But even if not, YKF -> YYC -> YVR is still more convenient than YYZ -> YVR simply because it avoids YYZ.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Statistics Canada: Airport Activity 2009
June 29, 2010 | http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/100629/dq100629f-eng.htm
PDF: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/51-203-x/51-203-x2009000-eng.pdf

Air passenger traffic at Canadian airports decreased 5.4% in 2009. The total number of enplaned and deplaned passengers stood at 103 million. This decrease in air passenger traffic is the first contraction since 2002. The "domestic" and "transborder" sectors saw a decline in passenger traffic in 2009. The "other international" sector expanded 1.0%. Cargo tonnages loaded and unloaded at Canadian airports declined 5.6% in 2009.

Table 1-1: Passengers enplaned and deplaned on selected services - Top 50 airports
http://i576.photobucket.com/albums/ss203/UrbanWaterloo/Transportation/StatisticsCanada-AirCarrierTraff-1.jpg

Table 1-2: Passengers enplaned and deplaned on selected services - Top 50 airports by sector
http://i576.photobucket.com/albums/ss203/UrbanWaterloo/Transportation/StatisticsCanada-AirCarrierTraffica.jpg

[UrbanWaterloo]

Regions airport looking for more business
570 News Jul 03, 2010 08:05:17 AM | http://www.570news.com/news/local/article/73482--regions-airport-looking-for-more-business

Now that Vancouver has been added to the list of places you can fly to from Waterloo, what's next?

General Manager of Waterloo Region International Airport, Chris Wood, tells 570 News there are no done deals at this point, but Halifax and Winnipeg are being discussed with air carriers.

Wood adds they also get requests daily for service to Florida, and there is demand for business travel to Chicago and New York.

He says the airport has had discussions with Delta Airlines about their former service to Detroit, but that company is "not quite ready yet to put their foot back in the water."

Wood says there are also talks with Porter Airlines to set up shop in our local airport, to steal some of Air Canada's business of Regional travellers flying to and from Toronto's Billy Bishop Island Airport.

Wood says it's up to individual airlines to set up new destinations, the airport's job is to show there is a demand for any given destination.

But he says it's a chicken and egg situation: if airlines set up flights from his airport, passengers come in, but they need to have those passengers to get the flights.

Wood says 96 per cent of airline travellers to or from the Region still use Pearson International Airport in Toronto.

He explains it's hard to compete with the choice of destinations from Pearson and the frequency of flights.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Orlando would be a good seasonal destination in my opinion.

WestJet Route Map: http://www.westjet.com/guest/en/travelInfo/whereWeFly/routeMap.shtml
http://i576.photobucket.com/albums/ss203/UrbanWaterloo/Transportation/WestJetRouteMap-July42010.png

[Urban_Enthusiast86]

General Manager of Waterloo Region International Airport, Chris Wood, tells 570 News there are no done deals at this point, but Halifax and Winnipeg are being discussed with air carriers.

Wood adds they also get requests daily for service to Florida, and there is demand for business travel to Chicago and New York.

Halifax in particular would make sense. It's the hub for the entire market of Atlantic Canada. Considering my family makes regular flights to and from St. John's, that would make us very happy! Western Canada is already covered pretty well by now, but Winnipeg could open us up to Saskatchewan as well...with no backtracking.

Florida is a no-brainer, just because so many Canadians go down there for vacation. Even a seasonal service would probably be fine for the local airport. New York and Chicago would be excellent places to be connected to. Next, it would be nice to see a connection to the Western U.S., such as Los Angeles or Las Vegas (once their economy recovers at least).

What's up with the Detroit service being cancelled? I know most people wouldn't bother flying to Detroit just to go to Detroit, but it was our critical link where we could transfer to anywhere else in the States. It's too bad that flight was canned.


Wood says 96 per cent of airline travellers to or from the Region still use Pearson International Airport in Toronto.

He explains it's hard to compete with the choice of destinations from Pearson and the frequency of flights.

Which is by far the biggest drawback for the RoW Airport. But some large metropolitan regions in the US have more than one airport. The New York region has JFK and LaGaurdia, for example. If some of the demand for the Greater Golden Horseshoe's more popular flight destinations can be accomodated at smaller airports like RoW's and Hamilton, I'd very much welcome that movement. The less people having to drive 60+km to use the airport, the better. But it obviously makes sense to go to Pearson if you're travelling to the more obscure destinations across the planet, like Istanbul for instance.

[plam]

Which is by far the biggest drawback for the RoW Airport. But some large metropolitan regions in the US have more than one airport. The New York region has JFK and LaGaurdia, for example. If some of the demand for the Greater Golden Horseshoe's more popular flight destinations can be accomodated at smaller airports like RoW's and Hamilton, I'd very much welcome that movement. The less people having to drive 60+km to use the airport, the better. But it obviously makes sense to go to Pearson if you're travelling to the more obscure destinations across the planet, like Istanbul for instance.

You'd still have a connection in either New York or Frankfurt to get to Istanbul. But having two connections starts getting miserable.

One problem for frequent fliers with flying out of YKF is that it doesn't give the right kind of points. I mean, the Vancouver and Calgary flights are nice, but I collect Air Canada points, so I just wouldn't take the YKF flights.

[Urbanomicon]

Next, it would be nice to see a connection to the Western U.S., such as Los Angeles or Las Vegas (once their economy recovers at least).

I'm not sure we would ever see direct flights out to Los Angeles or Las Vegas. But if we can get a direct to Chicago, New York, or even Detroit, you can basically fly anyehere in North America with only one connection. That's how I travelled to Las Vegas two summers ago. Kitchener --> Detroit --> Las Vegas.

[DHLawrence]

What's up with the Detroit service being cancelled? I know most people wouldn't bother flying to Detroit just to go to Detroit, but it was our critical link where we could transfer to anywhere else in the States. It's too bad that flight was canned.

It was a victim of both the economy and the Northwest-Delta merger.

If I had to choose three airports for YKF to serve, I would go with Chicago (either Midway or O'Hare), Newark Liberty, and Montreal. With those connections you can go practically anywhere on earth. Maybe throw in St John's as well to get serve the local Newfie population.

[Spokes]

I could definitely see Chicago happening, New York too! I wonder if for Chicago they'd go to OHare, or if like Porter, they'd go to the downtown airport. Actually, I wonder if we'll see Porter at YKF at all any time soon?

[Spokes]

It was a victim of both the economy and the Northwest-Delta merger.

If I had to choose three airports for YKF to serve, I would go with Chicago (either Midway or O'Hare), Newark Liberty, and Montreal. With those connections you can go practically anywhere on earth. Maybe throw in St John's as well to get serve the local Newfie population.

There's huge benefit for OHare over Detroit anyways because of the fact that OHare is such a big Hub in the states. It provides you a massive amount of transfer destinations.

[Urban_Enthusiast86]

There's huge benefit for OHare over Detroit anyways because of the fact that OHare is such a big Hub in the states. It provides you a massive amount of transfer destinations.

That's right. Same with JFK. A connection with those airports puts us on the map internationally! From JFK you can go pretty much anywhere in the world...you're only one transfer away.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Breaking Ground for an Improved Airport
Region of Waterloo International Airport improves infrastructure with Federal, Provincial support
Breslau | July 6, 2010 | http://region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/$All/68988D18B6E760E98525775800491C7E?OpenDocument

http://region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/646992a6b2d4dea085256e590071a3e9/68988d18b6e760e98525775800491c7e/Body/95.84!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=jpg

Today Regional Chair Ken Seiling, Kitchener-Conestoga Member of Parliament Harold Albrecht and Kitchener-Conestoga Member of Provincial Parliament Leeanna Pendergast participated in a ground breaking for the Combined Airport / Fleet Maintenance and Firehall Services Facility at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

The new facility will meet precision landing regulations, and accommodate on-site emergency vehicles. As ridership at the airport continues to grow, this new facility will ensure that the Region of Waterloo International Airport has the necessary infrastructure to continue safe, predictable operations for years to come.

"This project is another step in completing the master plan for the Airport," said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. "New combined maintenance and fire hall facilities will ensure that we are able to accommodate increasing passenger, charter and cargo service demands well into the future."

“The airport is an important part of our local infrastructure,” noted MPP Leeanna Pendergast. “Under the strong leadership of Dalton McGuinty, the Ontario government is creating jobs now to help stimulate our economy.”

“All of the projects funded under Canada’s Economic Action Plan were identified as priorities by our local partners,” explained MP Harold Albrecht. “We are working in partnership with the province and the Region to foster jobs and growth. Waterloo Region, like Canada, will emerge stronger from the challenges of 2009.”

The Combined Airport/Fleet Maintenance and Firehall Services Facility project will cost approximately $10.8 million and has been approved for funding of $4,733,334 under the federal and provincial Infrastructure Stimulus Fund with the balance financed by the Region of Waterloo.

[YKF]

I'm hoping that the YVR service gets enough service to warrant yearly service, as well as the introduction of flights to Halifax. With regards to an American destination, I'd go for either New York or Chicago. Both provide immense connections to destinations all around the world.

[plam]

Here's a Flyertalk thread about YKF.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/air-canada-aeroplan/1060345-ac-ever-considered-flying-out-ykf.html

[Spokes]

Was just looking at the stats (http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/showthread.php/423-Waterloo-Region-Statistics) page and saw that total passengers dipped in 2009 from 2008 (2008: 118,933; 2009: 106,321) was that in part because they lost the NorthWest flight to Detroit? (Probably part because of the economy too)

[UrbanWaterloo]

Yes the drop in passengers was mostly attributable to NorthWest canceling their service (although you could say that was a result of the economic recession). This was the breakdown:

Domestic | 2008: 82,274 | 2009: 88,634 | Change: 6,360 or 7.7%
Transborder | 2008: 25,230 | 2009: 7,588 | Change: -17,642 or -69.9%
Other International | 2008: 11,429 | 2009: 10,099 | Change: -1,330 or -11.6%
Total | 2008: 118,933 | 2009: 106,321 | Change: -12,612 or -10.6%

Hopefully we'll see a nice rebound in passenger levels this year as a result of service to YVR.

[Spokes]

Wow, that definteily makes things clear. Hopefully YVR is a success, but I think we really need something like the Detroit route to help things out. All the other numbers seem on the rise, or close to the same.

[Spokes]

Airport a turbulent ride for taxpayers

August 06, 2010
Road Ahead column by Jeff Outhit

A decade ago, politicians voted to upgrade the Breslau airport, to support flight schools, recreation, executive charters, economic development and scheduled passenger service.

On the passenger side at least it has been a wild and worrisome ride.

The regional airport lost its international carrier last year when Delta ended service to Detroit. Passengers fell to below 300 per day in 2009, down 11 per cent.

Remaining passengers can fly year-round to Calgary on WestJet and to Ottawa on Bearskin Airlines. Charters fly to vacation resorts.

In June, WestJet launched direct flights to Vancouver, supported by public incentives. The airline says it has been pleased with the passenger response. But it is ending the seasonal service Sept. 7, two months earlier than expected, to send the planes elsewhere. Direct Vancouver flights may return next summer, a spokesperson said.

Regional council waived aircraft landing and parking fees to encourage the fledgling Vancouver service. If the brief service ends up short of profit targets, regional government may also have to provide WestJet with up to $10 it has collected from every Vancouver passenger. This amount could reach an estimated $60,000.

The latest airport plan is to attract 75 per cent more passengers by 2014 by adding more flights to more destinations. The airport would then capture 15 per cent of all air travel by local residents, up from eight per cent or less today.

As experience shows, this is easier to plan than achieve, even if incentives are offered.

“Given the problems of the airline industry, we’ve done remarkably well to attract what we’ve got and hold onto it,” Regional Chair Ken Seiling said. He sees airport expansion as about more than passenger service. “I view it as an investment in the community, one that’s important.”

This year an average household will spend $24 in taxes to support the airport, up from $16 in 2006. The subsidy has soared 50 per cent in council’s latest term and is now almost on par with the Sunnyside Home for the Aged, at $27 per household.

Meanwhile, council plans $53 million in airport upgrades through 2019. Almost half is budgeted for this year.

The lesson of this past decade is that drawing airlines and keeping passengers is a big challenge. Risks and failures have been as notable as successes.

Perhaps, overshadowed as it is by bigger airports nearby, Breslau is an airport that’s just not destined to fly.

Jeff Outhit can be reached at 519-895-5642 or jouthit@therecord.com.

[Spokes]

That's really disappointing that Vancouver service is already getting shut down. I thought it'd have been quite successful.

[panamaniac]

You can't accuse Outhit of boosterism!

[TripleQ]

I took a short trip to Vancouver last weekend via YKF and was actually surprised to see how full the flight was. Perhaps 80% full? Though it was the long weekend so maybe busier than normal. It was pretty awesome being able to wake up 90 minutes before the departure time.

I was really kicking myself for leaving my camera stowed in my luggage, there were some really great views as we flew over the middle of the city. The Boardwalk is quite monstrous compared with the surroundings.

[smably]

I'm flying direct to YVR in a week and a bit. I'll be interested to see how busy it is then.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Sunwing returns to the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)
August 18, 2010 | http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/SunwingReturn2010.asp

Waterloo Region - The Region of Waterloo International Airport is proud to announce the return of Sunwing Vacations, which will provide weekly non-stop service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Sunwing Travel Group, one of Canada's largest vertically integrated travel companies, has been listed for the sixth consecutive year as one of "Canada's Fastest Growing Companies" by PROFIT Magazine.

"We are very happy with Sunwing's decision to offer the residents of Waterloo Region a simple, hassle-free option to begin and end their sunspot vacation. Along with our low cost of parking, passengers can enjoy a quick check in, breeze through our efficient security screening and Canada Customs and be home before you could find your car at other airports," said Chris Wood, General Manager at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. "Flying from your local alternative airport saves you time and money."

Customers travelling from Waterloo Region aboard Sunwing Airlines will enjoy the popular 'more frills' service including a bon voyage glass of champagne, choice of hot meals served with wine, and in flight entertainment with yours-to-keep headsets and 20 kg free baggage allowance.

"We are happy to bring convenient non-stop 'champagne' flights and the beautiful beaches and resorts of Punta Cana and La Romana to the doorsteps of Kitchener and Waterloo residents again this winter", said Andrew Dawson, President of Tour Operations at Sunwing.

One-week all-inclusive packages start from just $555 plus taxes per person at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach in La Romana, departing Dec. 15, 2010. For all schedules and availability, call your travel agent or visit us at www.sunwing.ca.

Following are the schedule details for the Kitchener-Waterloo winter program:

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)
Wednesday | Depart 4:45 p.m. / Arrive 10:00 p.m. Local Time

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)
Wednesday | Depart 12:15 p.m. / Arrive 3:45 p.m. Local Time

[UrbanWaterloo]

Bearskin Airlines Announces Increased Service Between Ottawa and the Region of Waterloo International Airport
Waterloo Region | August 23, 2010 | http://waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/Bearskin5thFlight.asp

Effective September 20, 2010 Bearskin Airlines will increase service between Waterloo Region and Ottawa adding a fifth daily flight each weekday and a third daily flight each Sunday.

Bearskin Airlines launched daily non-stop service from the Region of Waterloo International Airport in October 2007. To mark their third anniversary, seat sale pricing is now in effect for guests looking to travel during Thanksgiving weekend and Oktoberfest celebrations. Sale fares are available until September 5, 2010 with Double Aeroplan Miles available between September 20 and October 22, 2010.

"Be in Ottawa before you can drive to Pearson! Bearskin flights to Ottawa are about 70 minutes, which can save passengers significant time and expense on a return trip," said Chris Wood, General Manager of the Region of Waterloo International Airport. "We have no parking, baggage or security delays, and as word continues to spread about available flight options, we are proud to watch Bearskin grow here again at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

Founded in 1963, Bearskin Airlines is one of Canada's oldest privately owned commuter airlines offering more than 100 scheduled flights daily to 17 destinations from Winnipeg in the west to Ottawa in the east. Named after the Northern Ontario community of Bearskin Lake, the company maintains major bases of operation in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout and employs more than 250 people.

"We are very pleased with the support from the business community for our Ottawa service," commented Harvey Friesen, President of the airline. "The Region of Waterloo International Airport offers a convenient and friendly alternative to Toronto's Pearson Airport."

Following are the details of additional weekday service (Beginning September 20, 2010):

Ottawa (YOW) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)
Monday to Friday | Dep. 7:20 a.m. / Arr. 8:30 a.m.
DAILY | Dep. 10:30 a.m. / Arr. 11:40 a.m.
Monday to Friday | Dep. 2:45 p.m. / Arr. 3:55 p.m.
Sunday to Friday | Dep. 4:30 p.m. / Arr. 5:40 p.m.
Sunday to Friday | Dep. 6:15 p.m. / Arr. 7:25 p.m.

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Ottawa (YOW)
Monday to Friday | Dep. 7:20 a.m. / Arr. 8:30 a.m.
DAILY | Dep. 10:15a.m. / Arr. 11:25a.m.
Monday to Friday | Dep. 2:45 p.m. / Arr. 3:55 p.m.
Sunday to Friday | Dep. 4:30 p.m. / Arr. 5:40 p.m.
Sunday to Friday | Dep. 6:15 p.m. / Arr. 7:25 p.m.

[KayDubya]

Great news!

[DHLawrence]

Up to five flights a day to our nation's capital...but we're not getting serious service! ;)

[Section ThirtyOne]

I'm taking my first flight this evening out of the new YKF airport. I'll snap some pics while i'm there for those that are interested.

Believe it or not, my flight to Calgary was CHEAPER than flying out of Pearson. Now that is a trend I hope will continue!

[Urbanomicon]

Believe it or not, my flight to Calgary was CHEAPER than flying out of Pearson. Now that is a trend I hope will continue!

That's to be expected. Larger airports, Pearson in partcular, has some of the highest airport taxes in North America.

[IEFBR14]

That's to be expected...
Not necessarily. While I agree that it costs WJ more to fly in and out of YYZ, I'd imagine that most passengers from K-W would rather pay more to fly out of YKF if they can save the cost of driving to and parking at YYZ or paying someone like Airways Transit to do it for them. The added out-of-pocket costs for someone in K-W to use YYZ is at least $100 a trip, not to mention time lost and inconvenience, etc.

This economic edge can't be lost on WJ's marketing people. My concern is that they're being forced to discount fares in order to get more bums into seats. If that's a chronic problem with using YKF then that can't bode well for WJ's future prospects here. (Recall too that WJ flys only one model of plane, the 737, so they don't have the option of using smaller equipment like a Dash-8 or CRJ as AC does. If 737s are too big to fly (viably) at YKF then WJ will be outta here.)

[Section ThirtyOne]

Heh, I didn't take any pics, but count me as a convert. I will pay more to fly out of YKF over YYZ or BUF. The fact that I can breeze through baggage check and security in 5 minutes is priceless! The 40 dollar weekly parking fee is also very reasonable, and to be honest the airport is close enough that I could have got friends or family to give me a lift.

I hope to see more flights and also a connection to the US. Losing that Northwest flight really hurt the number of destinations that are accessible.

[UWaterloo]

I'd fly to Waterloo Airport if it actually had transit to Downtown Kitchener. As it is a taxi there cost more than the shuttle to Pearson and for anyone 'who can think like they don't have a car' .......that is a big problem.

Sad to hear about Vancouver Westjet flight not working out. That Airport has so much potential but linkages are a serious issue at present. Not to mention the lack of service. Glad the Bearskin Airlines servies to Ottawa got increased. Recently found out it was an Aeroplan partner so I might take that service in future......and hopefully have someone to collect me. I'll be so happy when Grand River Transit do something about that......even if it went to Fairview Mall that be something at least.

[mpd618]

I'd fly to Waterloo Airport if it actually had transit to Downtown Kitchener. As it is a taxi there cost more than the shuttle to Pearson and for anyone 'who can think like they don't have a car' .......that is a big problem.

I don't think that's actually true. Based on my calculations a taxi from downtown Kitchener to the airport should be around $25. The rates within Waterloo Region are $3.40 + $1.80 / km.

[KevinL]

I'll be so happy when Grand River Transit do something about that......even if it went to Fairview Mall that be something at least.

Once the Fairway bridge is completed, the airport will be much closer to transit nodes like Fairview. I wouldn't be surprised to see service start once that opens.

[IEFBR14]

Once the Fairway bridge is completed... I wouldn't be surprised to see service start once that opens.
The challenge in providing regular service to/from YKF is the small number of flights. For example, today there are only 5 arrivals at 11:40, 15:55, 17:38, 17:40 and 19:25 and 5 departurres at 10:15, 14:45, 16:30, 18:15 and 18:15. (Indeed there are only 4 distinct times when transist would be needed considering how close 2 of the flights are timewise.) ISTM that doesn't justify a dedicated bus unless there are also enough other passengers who only need to use stops along the way.

That said, there might be an opportunity for an on-demand shuttle service that leaves Fairway or downtown Kitchener say an hour before each scheduled flight and leaves YKF say half an hour after each arrival. But such a service would have to deal with flight delays, bad weather, schedule changes and the like. Otherwise passengers might arrive at YKF by bus only to discover their outbound flight has been delayed or might land at YKF just after the scheduled shuttle has left empty. However, with more and more people carrying cellphones it might be possible to communicate last-minute shuttle schedule alterations via SMS, etc. This might be a better opportunity for someone like Airways Transit rather than GRT. AT would be able to charge $10 to $15 for a shuttle versus $3 for GRT (or $25 for a taxi.)

[GGHTransit]

^^^ According to GRT transit planners, service to the airport will be re-evaluated once again as once the Fairway Bridge is completed, but the service would likely be part of a larger route intended to service the Breslau Area as well with a route travelling from Downtown Kitchener along Victoria Street North, through Breslau, the Airport and down Fairway Road North to Fairview Park. That was only something they mentioned off the top of their heads, but the airport does by no means need to be the only destination on the route in order for it to be viable.

[KevinL]

^^^ According to GRT transit planners, service to the airport will be re-evaluated once again as once the Fairway Bridge is completed, but the service would likely be part of a larger route intended to service the Breslau Area as well with a route travelling from Downtown Kitchener along Victoria Street North, through Breslau, the Airport and down Fairway Road North to Fairview Park. That was only something they mentioned off the top of their heads, but the airport does by no means need to be the only destination on the route in order for it to be viable.

Yes, that's a point I had in mind but forgot to articulate above.

And I'm sure the airport will have bus users beyond just scheduled-flight passengers; various personnel from numerous employers located there may make use of it as well (I understand that easily half the users of the TTC's Airport Rocket work at Pearson).

[Shawn]

Yes, that's a point I had in mind but forgot to articulate above.

And I'm sure the airport will have bus users beyond just scheduled-flight passengers; various personnel from numerous employers located there may make use of it as well (I understand that easily half the users of the TTC's Airport Rocket work at Pearson).

I've taken the TTC's Airport Rocket a few times before and it's packed with airport employees! It's such a short trip to the Subway station (or hopefully in our case, the LRT station) that it makes complete sense to use it.

[panamaniac]

I don't think that's actually true. Based on my calculations a taxi from downtown Kitchener to the airport should be around $25. The rates within Waterloo Region are $3.40 + $1.80 / km.

It is definitely not true - I don't know what cab fare would be but when I took the transport to YYZ the other week and they soaked me $83 for one way.

[Spokes]

Hopefully any Fairway Rd and Victoria St. express routes connect at the airport.

[IEFBR14]

It is definitely not true - I don't know what cab fare would be but when I took the transport to YYZ the other week and they soaked me $83 for one way.
I'm confused. mpd618 is talking about a cab from downtown Kitchener to YKF. You seem to be talking about going to YYZ (using Airways Transit?) That's apples to oranges unless I'm missing something.

BTW when I lived in Toronto (in the NE part of North York) the flat rate one way cab/limo fare was $35. It's probably at least $40 now. Paying $83 from K-W doesn't seem that unreasonable by comparison, especially when you factor the costs of driving and parking at YYZ.

[garthdanlor]

I'm confused. mpd618 is talking about a cab from downtown Kitchener to YKF. You seem to be talking about going to YYZ (using Airways Transit?) That's apples to oranges unless I'm missing something.
An earlier poster (Uwaterloo) suggested that the taxi from Kitchener to YKF would cost more than using Airways Transit to YYZ. At $200 return vs $60 return this is obviously not the case. I just hope we can attract a regular flight from Kitchener to New York/Newark so we can take advantage of some useful international connections.

[IEFBR14]

Airways Transit to YYZ. At $200 return
My wife and I use AT to and from YYZ. The cost currently is $118 ($59/pp) each way plus tip for the driver. Compare to with the cost of gasoline plus parking.

There's no way a taxi from anywhere in K-W to YKF would cost more.

BTW people who plan to use YYZ should investigate another option: http://www.parksleepfly.com/ You can usually get one night at a decent airport hotel, shuttle service to the hotel and parking at the hotel lot for a couple of weeks all for about $100/room. That's worked well for us when flying out of YYZ early in the morning. We can drive to the hotel after the evening rush hour, get to bed early and then get to the airport quickly first thing the next morning.

[panamaniac]

I'm confused. mpd618 is talking about a cab from downtown Kitchener to YKF. You seem to be talking about going to YYZ (using Airways Transit?) That's apples to oranges unless I'm missing something.

BTW when I lived in Toronto (in the NE part of North York) the flat rate one way cab/limo fare was $35. It's probably at least $40 now. Paying $83 from K-W doesn't seem that unreasonable by comparison, especially when you factor the costs of driving and parking at YYZ.

I apologize for my telegraphic drafting - my earlier comment about taxis referred to an earlier post by UWaterloo about the cost of a taxis from YKF to Downtown being higher than the cost of a shuttle to YYZ.

[garthdanlor]

My wife and I use AT to and from YYZ. The cost currently is $118 ($59/pp) each way plus tip for the driver. Compare to with the cost of gasoline plus parking.

There's no way a taxi from anywhere in K-W to YKF would cost more.

BTW people who plan to use YYZ should investigate another option: http://www.parksleepfly.com/ You can usually get one night at a decent airport hotel, shuttle service to the hotel and parking at the hotel lot for a couple of weeks all for about $100/room. That's worked well for us when flying out of YYZ early in the morning. We can drive to the hotel after the evening rush hour, get to bed early and then get to the airport quickly first thing the next morning.

I was rounding up (for both modes of transport) but I certainly didn't see much change from $200 on my last Airways Transit return trip...80-odd dollars each way + tip. Unless you are driving a transport truck, fuel + parking is far cheaper than this. The hotel deals that you mention are great, especially for early flights. Airways Transit is overpriced but is reliable and convenient, so I do still use it from time to time.

[plam]

I was rounding up (for both modes of transport) but I certainly didn't see much change from $200 on my last Airways Transit return trip...80-odd dollars each way + tip. Unless you are driving a transport truck, fuel + parking is far cheaper than this. The hotel deals that you mention are great, especially for early flights. Airways Transit is overpriced but is reliable and convenient, so I do still use it from time to time.

I think that Airways Transit is actually optimally priced for the market. That is, they don't have to be any cheaper to attract a larger clientele. In particular, you can spend less money to get to the airport, but it'll then cost you more time. (I know. I've explored pretty much all the ways of getting to the airport.) Or, you can take a taxi, which is a bit faster, and costs you more money.

There is the AT door-to-door, which is $83 including HST, and the airporter (4x per day), which is $54. I think that the previous post was talking about the airporter shuttle to YYZ, which is closer to being the same price as taxi to YKF.

IEFBR14, I didn't know that you could pay $59 per person, but it still seems to be more expensive than getting to the airport by taxi, which you can do with Waterloo taxi for $90. You can't get from Pearson to Waterloo for $90, though. That will cost $147.

[IEFBR14]

There is the AT door-to-door, which is $83 including HST... IEFBR14, I didn't know that you could pay $59 per person
I see the source of some of my confusion. According to their Rate Schedule (http://www.airwaystransit.com/schedules.shtml), it's $83 for one person and $118 (2 x $59) for a couple, each way. It's even less per person for larger groups like families.

Another option is their Private Vehicle Service (http://www.airwaystransit.com/private_vehicle.shtml) at $146 for up to 3 people, especially if you're a party of 3. The Lincolns are a lot more comfortable than the vans and you don't waste any time as with the shared vans while they pick up and drop off passengers. Coming back from YYZ last week we were the last people to get dropped off and thus spent the better part of an hour touring K-W as the driver took everyone else to their destinations.

[BuildingScout]

I think that Airways Transit is actually optimally priced for the market. That is, they don't have to be any cheaper to attract a larger clientele.


Several large local companies now use Boulevard Limo instead of AT.



In particular, you can spend less money to get to the airport, but it'll then cost you more time. (I know. I've explored pretty much all the ways of getting to the airport.) Or, you can take a taxi, which is a bit faster, and costs you more money.


Driving a one-way rental car to the airport can be very cheap: as low as $35 at times. Apparently there are more cars driven in this direction than back.

[UrbanWaterloo]

REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT GATEWAY SIGN
TO: Chair Jim Wideman and Members of the Planning and Works Committee
DATE: November 16, 2010 | Report: E-10-092 (http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/6C27E7CE550BCC60852577D90052093C/$file/E-10-092.pdf?openelement)

RECOMMENDATION: For Information

REPORT

The existing Region of Waterloo Airport entrance sign installed in 1987 is in need of replacement and is no longer representative of the Airport. The public regularly experiences difficulty locating the Airport and people commonly miss the entry road to the airport and have to turn around. Staff was directed to replace this sign and formed a project sign committee consisting of Regional staff, Township of Woolwich staff and Councillor Jean Haalboom to develop a recommended sign design.
The project team met several times and has selected a preferred sign as shown in Figure 1 and 2 of this report. The project team feels that this sign will provide the needed visual cues to make the public aware of the airport access location and will also serve as a main entrance feature for the airport.


Proposed Sign

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/E-10-092%20-%20Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airpor t%20Gateway%20Sign%20-%20Figure%201-1.jpg

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/E-10-092%20-%20Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airpor t%20Gateway%20Sign%20-%20Figure%201-2.jpg

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/E-10-092%20-%20Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airpor t%20Gateway%20Sign%20-%20Figure%202-1.jpg

The replacement Airport Sign will consist of three components: an aircraft tail; an aircraft symbol; and an air terminal building shape. Both the aircraft tail and aircraft symbol, consistent with our roadside directional signage, will point toward the air terminal building providing a directional cue.
Lighting details will provide drivers with night-time visual cues as they approach the Airport. The majority of lighting will be done in Light-emitting-diode (LED) but some florescent is required to obtain maximum night-time visibility.
The proposed sign will be increased slightly in height from the existing sign (18’ to 21’6”) to improve visibility and clearly mark the entrance and because of this the replacement sign will exceed the 4 square metre sign area outlined in the Woolwich Township By-Law. Regional staff will be requesting an exemption to proceed with the attached design from the Township Sign Variance Committee on November 29, 2010.
The project team feels that proposed sign will address the challenges of the site and will instill a sense of community pride and better represent the Airport facility.
The proposed sign is estimated to cost $50,000 and will be put out for tender soon subject to receiving approval from the Township Sign Variance Committee. It is expected that the sign will be in place early 2011.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The 2010 Airport Capital Program includes an amount of $250,000 for a new Airport gateway sign and related entrance improvements.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Sunwing Airlines non-stop service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic began yesterday.
Waterloo Region | December 15, 2010 | www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/Sunwing2010.asp

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/YKF%20Sunwing%20Boarding%20December%2015,%202010.j pg

The Region of Waterloo International Airport is pleased to welcome back Sunwing Vacations, who will provide weekly non-stop service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for the winter season.
"It's always great to see Sunwing passengers excited to escape the cold and travel from their local airport. These savvy passengers don't want to begin or end their winter vacation with a trip down Hwy. 401. Along with our low cost of parking, passengers can enjoy a quick check in, breeze through our efficient security screening and Canada Customs and be home before you could find your car at other airports," said Chris Wood, General Manager at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. "Flying from your local alternative airport saves you time, stress and money."
Customers travelling from Waterloo Region aboard Sunwing Airlines will enjoy the popular 'more frills' service including a bon voyage glass of champagne, choice of hot meals served with wine, and in flight entertainment with yours-to-keep headsets and 20 kg free baggage allowance.

Following are the schedule details for the Kitchener-Waterloo winter program:

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)
Sunwing | Wednesday | Depart 4:45 p.m. / Arrive 10:00 p.m. Local Time

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)
Sunwing | Wednesday | Depart 12:15 p.m. / Arrive 3:45 p.m. Local Time

Take the hassle out of your next vacation and choose your local alternative! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate, offers free high-speed wireless Internet, complimentary baggage carts and low parking rates. Before you board your flight visit the Aviator Café, operated by Edelweiss - located in the departures lounge. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service. Next time you need to fly, remember to look before you book!

[markster]

In less sunny news:
I had a friend fly out of YKF the other day, and she spotted some new full-body scanners. They weren't operational yet.

[IEFBR14]

No longer will CATSA have to ponder if that's a gun in your pocket or if you're just glad to see them.

http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/anxiety.png

[Shawn]

Ok, I have to admit that when I first saw the body scanner (http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/04/01/article-1166157-043425D0000005DC-294_634x463.jpg) in the movie Total Recall (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_Recall) I thought it was pretty cool.

Now that they exist (at least in some form) I don't think they're cool anymore. Not that I'm overly modest and not that I'm overly worried about the radiation (which..if I had to rank those 2 common reasons, for me #1 would be the radiation worry over modesty) I just have a problem with them, based on principle. To me it's like using a bazooka for target practice. Right concept -- wrong tool.

Sadly I think they're here to stay, at least for flights to/from the USA, but it's yet another reason why travelling for pleasure is no longer a pleasure.

[zanate]

I'm disappointed that this year, Punta Cana is Sunwing's only Waterloo destination. It used to be PC, Cancun and Montego Bay (the last of which I flew two years ago-- great way to head south!)

This year we're going out of YYZ, because for YKF it's Punta Cana or nothin'.

[Spokes]

More flights to Ottawa
January 5, 2011 | by Dave Berman, Wonderful Waterloo Staff

Region of Waterloo residents will soon have even more access to the Nation's capital.

Beginning January 29, 2011, Bearskin Airlines will double its Saturday service between the Region of Waterloo International Airport and Ottawa International Airport.

Currently Bearskin offers five flights daily on weekdays, one flight on Saturdays and three flights on Sundays. It has been this way since mid 2008 when service was increased from three flights each weekday and three Sunday flights.

"This increased service is due to increasing demand from students and leisure travelers," commented Ron Hell, Director of Marketing & Sales for Bearskin.

The increase in service is a sign that Waterloo Region's airport is growing both in service and popularity.

"Bearskin Airlines now offer 30 weekly departures from Waterloo Region to Ottawa" noted Chris Wood, the Airport General Manager. "I am impressed with their slow and steady growth in our market. This latest announcement is another example of Bearskin taking advantage of the growing popularity of our airport, and we hope to see them continue to grow and offer passengers additional air service options."

Both sides are happy with how things are going. "We're very pleased with the support shown by Waterloo Region for our service," commented Cliff Friesen, Executive Vice President of the airline. "Support from the business community was immediate, and support from leisure travelers has been growing over time. Seems everyone is starting to value how much time can be saved by using the Region of Waterloo Airport."

Travelling to Ottawa is much faster leaving from Waterloo Region rather than flight from Toronto's Pearson International Airport. Non-stop flights from Waterloo Region are only 70 minutes while it takes between two and three hours from Toronto when the drive to the airport is factored in.

Bearskin launched service between Ottawa and Waterloo Region October 1, 2007.

Flights will now depart Waterloo Region twice every Saturday, at 10:15am and 2:45pm.

[panamaniac]

I flew to Ottawa on Bearskin on Tuesday - it is just so easy and quick that I no longer even think about taking the train or driving, especially since I don't need a car when I'm in O-town.

[Spokes]

I flew to Ottawa on Bearskin on Tuesday - it is just so easy and quick that I no longer even think about taking the train or driving, especially since I don't need a car when I'm in O-town.

What kind of prices are there? Especially compared to alternatives?

[YKF]

CKCO reported today that Westjet will be re-introducing Vancouver flights starting some time in June-labour day. No info about this on the Airport's website, or Westjet's website.
Also,
http://waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/AviatorCafeExpands.asp

[panamaniac]

What kind of prices are there? Especially compared to alternatives?

Prices vary according to time and day but a one way fare can be had for about $200, which I find to be a bargain considering the time it saves over the alternatives.

[cambridge-city-boy]

Its a shame how the passenger rates dropped from 2009. They should make more affordable rates for flights.

[IEFBR14]

one way fare can be had for about $200, which I find to be a bargain considering the time it saves over the alternatives.
Are you flying for business or personal reasons? Business I can understand, especially if you can go to a meeting and come back the same day.

But most people can't afford $400 return for personal travel. And if they're travelling with a spouse/family that's also per person. If they drive the cost is essentially fixed regardless of number of passengers. Then there's the inconvenience of arriving at YOW without "wheels" (or paying extra for that.)

High speed rail serving the Toronto — Ottawa — Montreal triangle would be a much better solution for most people most of the time.

[Spokes]

Are you flying for business or personal reasons? Business I can understand, especially if you can go to a meeting and come back the same day.

But most people can't afford $400 return for personal travel. And if they're travelling with a spouse/family that's also per person. If they drive the cost is essentially fixed regardless of number of passengers. Then there's the inconvenience of arriving at YOW without "wheels" (or paying extra for that.)

High speed rail serving the Toronto — Ottawa — Montreal triangle would be a much better solution for most people most of the time.

I've heard prices (sales) will drop as low as $109 one way to Ottawa.

But you're right, HSR is optimal here.

[jerryhung]

CKCO reported today that Westjet will be re-introducing Vancouver flights starting some time in June-labour day. No info about this on the Airport's website, or Westjet's website.
Also,
http://waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/AviatorCafeExpands.asp

This will be great news and I may take advantage of it this September
My brother used the flight Aug 2010 and it was convenient (and slightly cheaper than YYZ)

[UrbanWaterloo]

The Aviator Café by Edelweiss expands at the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)
January 6, 2011 | Link (http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/airportnews/AviatorCafeExpands.asp)

Waterloo Region - The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) and Edelweiss Tavern are proud to announce the expansion of their Airport Departure Lounge location - the Aviator Café. Now guests flying with our airline partners will be able to enjoy the newly constructed, LCBO licensed sit down dining area. This area features raised counters facing the runway, and comes complete with laptop and cell phone charging stations.

Lorne and Eve Miller who have owned and operated the Edelweiss Tavern in Doon Village since 1987 took over the operation of the food concession at the Region of Waterloo International Airport in December of 2009. Renamed the Aviator Café, Lorne and his team provide fresh food and coffee for all outbound flights.

"We love it out here - I can see huge potential as the Airport continues to grow and attracts more air service," said Lorne Miller, owner of Edelweiss Tavern and operator of the Aviator Café. "The sky's the limit. A lot of our clientele are frequent fliers and changing the menu regularly by adding seasonal favorites keeps our customers happy."

The Aviator Café is open to guests with a valid boarding pass who are departing from the Region of Waterloo International Airport, on Bearskin Airlines, Westjet Airlines, and Sunwing Airlines. Unfortunately, the Café is not open to the general public.

"Suitable food and beverage service is an important part of the Airport experience," said Airport General Manager, Chris Wood. "A number of our passengers are flying locally for the first time after years of using other airports, and they expect similar food options. These people are trading in their business class lounge comfort for convenience, which allows them to be home in time for dinner. Aviator Café's new licensed restaurant allows an opportunity for a hot meal and beverage before boarding the flight."

Take the hassle out of your next flight and support local air service! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate, offers free high-speed wireless internet, complimentary baggage carts and low parking rates. Before you board your flight visit the Aviator Café, operated by Edelweiss - located in the departures lounge. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service. Next time you need to fly, remember to look before you book, and fly the local option!

[panamaniac]

Are you flying for business or personal reasons? Business I can understand, especially if you can go to a meeting and come back the same day.

But most people can't afford $400 return for personal travel. And if they're travelling with a spouse/family that's also per person. If they drive the cost is essentially fixed regardless of number of passengers. Then there's the inconvenience of arriving at YOW without "wheels" (or paying extra for that.)

High speed rail serving the Toronto — Ottawa — Montreal triangle would be a much better solution for most people most of the time.

When I fly to Ottawa, it would usually be for personal reasons. As I said, I don't require a car in Ottawa, so I consider Bearskin to be a good deal, although I admit I am not price sensitive when it comes to personal travel. I can't disagree that HSR would be the better solution, but in its absence, I will continue to fly.

[YKF]

A few years ago I recieved an e-mail from Bearskin a few months prior to the introduction of flights to Ottawa. Today I got another e-mail from them, similar in nature. This e-mail was regarding Kitchener-Montreal flights. It seems like they (Bearskin) are evaluating the market for flights to Montreal.
Exciting times for YKF

[YKF]

http://www.bearskinairlines.com/

The survey is located here. I encourage all of you to fill it out, and help give Waterloo Region residents more flying options out of YKF.

[Spokes]

A few years ago I recieved an e-mail from Bearskin a few months prior to the introduction of flights to Ottawa. Today I got another e-mail from them, similar in nature. This e-mail was regarding Kitchener-Montreal flights. It seems like they (Bearskin) are evaluating the market for flights to Montreal.
Exciting times for YKF

That'd be awesome, I really hope they expand service. Same goes for west Jet.

[Spokes]

http://www.bearskinairlines.com/

The survey is located here. I encourage all of you to fill it out, and help give Waterloo Region residents more flying options out of YKF.

Everyone really needs to take the time to show support for this, the survey probably took between 2 or 3 minutes, tops.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Ive submitted my responses, hopefully this service is up and running sometime in 2011! :RpS_thumbup:

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/YKF%20-%20Bearskin%20Waterloo-Montreal%20Survey%20January%202011.jpg

Waterloo-Montreal Air Service Survey
Survey Link (http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/WEB22BQFZEA7PH/)

Bearskin Airlines commenced service between The Region of Waterloo and Ottawa in the fall of 2007 offering three flights each weekday. Service was designed to meet the needs of the business community and has since increased to five flights each weekday. We are now evaluating the viability of a new nonstop service from The Region of Waterloo to Montreal. This survey will take less than 5 minutes of your time and is key to our decision making process. All those who respond to this survey will receive a gift certificate that can be redeemed toward Waterloo-Montreal service should service be offered. Can you please assist us with this short survey?

* Have you personally flown to Montreal for business in the last 12 months?
Yes/No


Please estimate how many round trip flights per year you make to Montreal?


* Does your company have a Branch office in Montreal?
Yes/No


How many departures each weekday do you feel are required to make service to Montreal convenient for you?
2
3
4
5
+5


We understand your top priorities are a prime morning departure between 7:00-8:00 am and evening departure between 5:00-6:00 pm. Assuming additional frequency is offered, what would be your next preferred departure time from Waterloo?
10:00-11:00 am
2:00-3:00 pm
7:00 pm or later


Assuming flight time of approximately 1.5 hours, what is your next preferred departure time from Montreal?
10:00-11:00 am
2:00-3:00 pm
7:00 pm or later


Our company flies the Fairchild Metroliner. This aircraft is a 19 passenger, pressurized turboprop aircraft. The cabin features two single rows and center aisle layout offering each passenger a "window and aisle". This aircraft is not equipped with washroom facilities. Do you feel this aircraft type would be acceptable to you for the 90-minute flight to Montreal?
Yes/No
Additional Comment


What is the highest price range (before tax & surcharge) that you feel is acceptable for a one way business fare between Waterloo-Montreal?
Under $200
$200 to $250
$250 to $300
$300 to $350
$350 to $400
Over $400


* Have you flown to Montreal for leisure?
Yes/No


Would you support scheduled air service from Waterloo Regional Airport?
Yes/No


What advice, comments or suggestions can you offer Bearskin Airlines to ensure that scheduled air service between Waterloo-Montreal is successful?


* Where can we send your travel certificate to be redeemed toward Waterloo-Montreal flights should the service be offered?
Name:
Email Address:

[IEFBR14]

If as I did, you reply No to Q1 and 0 to Q2, then the survey ends summarily. Not only does that skew the results by weeding out those who are least likely to use Bearskin's route for business travel, but it's also self-defeating in that those people never get asked Qs 9 through 12. While I may not have any need to travel to Montreal for business I might have personal reasons to go there. Granted that may not be the most lucrative demographic for Bearskin but it might represent a marginal market segment that helps make the route viable.

Whoever set up this survey is either incompetent or simply trying to justify what they already believe is true.

[Spokes]

Ya thats kinda dumb that it shuts the survey down. Definitely an oversight there.

They should be targeting not only existing business customers, but also people that aren't using the service, but that could.

[plam]

Ya thats kinda dumb that it shuts the survey down. Definitely an oversight there.

They should be targeting not only existing business customers, but also people that aren't using the service, but that could.

Yep, it's like they're not asking about stealing mode share from other modes of transport at the moment.

[jerryhung]

If as I did, you reply No to Q1 and 0 to Q2, then the survey ends summarily. Not only does that skew the results by weeding out those who are least likely to use Bearskin's route for business travel, but it's also self-defeating in that those people never get asked Qs 9 through 12. While I may not have any need to travel to Montreal for business I might have personal reasons to go there. Granted that may not be the most lucrative demographic for Bearskin but it might represent a marginal market segment that helps make the route viable.

Whoever set up this survey is either incompetent or simply trying to justify what they already believe is true.

I agree, I got cutoff after Q2 also
But if they really really want to only target BUSINESS travellers initially, I can understand

Because, who would NOT want to fly from YKF to YUL if possible for leisure (so everyone would probably say YES to Q9), but ONLY IF the prices are right

[Spokes]

I agree, I got cutoff after Q2 also
But if they really really want to only target BUSINESS travellers initially, I can understand

Because, who would NOT want to fly from YKF to YUL if possible for leisure (so everyone would probably say YES to Q9), but ONLY IF the prices are right

I would guess the prices would/should be similar (or a bit higher) than Waterloo to Ottawa.

[IEFBR14]

Because, who would NOT want to fly from YKF to YUL if possible for leisure (so everyone would probably say YES to Q9), but ONLY IF the prices are right
My point is that if business travellers alone can't justify the service, perhaps leisure travellers, who are more flexible about dates and times, can fill the seats that would otherwise remain empty. Yes, they'll expect the price to be "right", however the travel industry (airplanes, hotels, etc.) sells perishable resources (seats, rooms, etc.) that can "expire" without generating any revenue. The industry has come up with various marketing and "yield maximization" strategies to fill otherwise empty seats and rooms at almost any cost. Witness seat sales, last-minute vacation deals, Priceline and the like.

Why would Bearskin explicitly exclude or ignore that stuff from their survey?

[mpd618]

Why would Bearskin explicitly exclude or ignore that stuff from their survey?

Maybe they think they have a better grasp of what the leisure demand is like?

[IEFBR14]

Maybe they think they have a better grasp of what the leisure demand is like?
Why wouldn't they let those participants complete the survey? I didn't mention it above, but summarily ending my survey after two responses felt like a slap in the face. If they want input they should get it from everyone, including those who may not be their immediate target audience.

At the very least it's a courtesy to those who are willing to take the time to do the survey. It also helps them confirm their grasp of leisure demand. Besides, if they have such a good grasp then why would they need to ask Q9, "Have you flown to Montreal for leisure?"

[Spokes]

Why wouldn't they let those participants complete the survey? I didn't mention it above, but summarily ending my survey after two responses felt like a slap in the face. If they want input they should get it from everyone, including those who may not be their immediate target audience.

At the very least it's a courtesy to those who are willing to take the time to do the survey. It also helps them confirm their grasp of leisure demand. Besides, if they have such a good grasp then why would they need to ask Q9, "Have you flown to Montreal for leisure?"

You're right, it's not like they started the survey saying "we're looking to get info on business travellers to MTL" had that been said it'd be understandable, but it wasn't

[UrbanWaterloo]

REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – DECLARATION OF SURPLUS AND LEASE WITH IP AVIATION L.P.
March 8, 2011 | ROW Planning and Works Committee | Report: CR-RS-11-014/E-11-026 (http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/A042A56368CE7E4685257849004F1CF5/$file/JOINT1.pdf?openelement)

REPORT

The Region of Waterloo has entered into an offer to lease lands located within the LL2 development area of the airport. LL2 refers to the leased land area so-called in the Master Plan undertaken for the airport in 2001. The land that is intended to be leased is in the northwest corner of the LL2 area (depicted as Lots 1 and 2 on Appendix B attached to this report). A draft Reference Plan has been prepared for the lands and is attached as Appendix A to this report. The draft Reference Plan refers to the leased lands as Parts 1 and 2.
The lands will be leased to IP Aviation LP, by its general partner, IP Aviation GP Inc. (the Lessee). The Lessee intends to construct a private aircraft hangar facility of up to 30,000 square feet in size. The hangar facility will be utilized to store one or more privately-owned business aircraft. The Lessee requires a lease with a term of twenty (20) years with an option to renew for an additional twenty (20) year period.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Region’s Property Disposition By-law, a lease of municipal property for a period of more than twenty-one years (including a renewal period) is deemed to be a disposition of property and accordingly such a leasehold interest must first be declared surplus to the needs of the Region of Waterloo. The Property Disposition By-law also requires that the disposal of surplus interest in land be advertised in the local newspaper. A ground lease with the Lessee will be executed by the Region of Waterloo after the requirements of the Region’s Property Disposition By-law have been met.
It is anticipated that the lease will take effect on April 1, 2011. The building of the hangar facility will commence in the Spring of 2011 subject to final site plan and Nav Canada approval. The proposed lease rates would be in accordance with the Region’s Fees and Charges By-law which provides for a commercial lease rate of $0.22 per square foot for land used for buildings and a rate of $0.04 for vacant and parking lands. In addition, the Lessee will pay a rate of $0.38 for approximately 16,000 square feet of paved aircraft taxiway space within the Lands. The combined lease revenue per year will total approximately $13,800. These rates will increase annually by a nominal amount taking into consideration changes in the cost of living index.
The total amount of space that will be leased is 97,854 feet, subject to confirmation once the construction of the facility is completed and registration of the final reference plan for the Lands. The Lands are fully serviced and the Lessee will pay a fee of $159,931.22 plus HST in accordance with the Region’s Fees and Charges By-law together with a water and sewer connection fee of $20,000 which are intended to contribute to the overall cost of providing services for the LL2 area.


APPENDIX B: Leased Land Area 2 – Region of Waterloo International Airport – Lands to be leased will include Lots 1 and 2

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/Joint1%20CR-RS-11-014%20E-11-026%20-%20Appendix%20B.jpg


REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – DECLARATION OF SURPLUS AND LEASE WITH WATERLOO AVIATION CORP.
March 8, 2011 | ROW Planning and Works Committee | Report: CR-RS-11-016 /E-11-037 (http://www.region.waterloo.on.ca/web/region.nsf/8ef02c0fded0c82a85256e590071a3ce/A042A56368CE7E4685257849004F1CF5/$file/JOINT2.pdf?openelement)

REPORT

The Region of Waterloo has entered into an offer to lease lands located within the LL2 development area of the airport. LL2 refers to the leased land area so-called in the Master Plan undertaken for the airport in 2001. The land that is intended to be leased is in the southwest corner of the LL2 area (depicted as Lots 10 and 11 on Appendix A attached to this report). A Reference Plan of Survey will be been prepared for the lands once the construction intended for the Lands is completed.
The lands will be leased to Waterloo Aviation Corp. (the Lessee). The Lessee intends to construct a private aircraft hangar facility that will be utilized to store privately-owned business aircraft. The Lessee requires a lease with a term of twenty (20) years with an option to renew for an additional period of up to thirty (30) years.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Region’s Property Disposition By-law, a lease of municipal property for a period of more than twenty-one years (including a renewal period) is deemed to be a disposition of property and accordingly such a leasehold interest must first be declared surplus to the needs of the Region of Waterloo. The Property Disposition By-law also requires that the disposal of surplus interest in land be advertised in the local newspaper. A ground lease with the Lessee will be executed by the Region of Waterloo after the requirements of the Region’s Property Disposition By-law have been met.
It is anticipated that the lease will take effect on April 1, 2011. The building of the hangar facility will commence in the Spring of 2011 subject to final site plan and Nav Canada approval. The proposed lease rates would be in accordance with the Region’s Fees and Charges By-law which provides for a commercial lease rate of $0.22 per square foot for land used for buildings and a rate of $0.04 for vacant and parking lands. The combined lease revenue per year will depend upon the final approved site plan and building dimension. These rates will increase annually by a nominal amount taking into consideration changes in the cost of living index.
The total amount of space that will be leased is 59,105 feet, subject to confirmation once the construction of the facility is completed and registration of the final reference plan for the Lands. The Lands are fully serviced and the Lessee will pay a fee of $84,520.15 plus HST in accordance with the Region’s Fees and Charges By-law together with a water and sewer connection fee of $20,000 which are intended to contribute to the overall cost of providing services for the LL2 area.
In addition to the lease of Lots 10 and 11 as depicted on Appendix A, the Lessee wishes to have an option to lease all or a portion of lots 9, 12, 13 and 14 as depicted on the attached lot plan for future potential expansion. In consideration of having the option to lease these lands, the Lessee will pay an annual option fee equivalent to one half of the area of the optioned leased lands times a lease rate of $0.04 per square foot with the balance of the area of the optioned lands times $0.22 per square foot. The option fee will amount to $17,853.68 per year. The Region shall continue to make the optioned lots available for lease and, in the event a third party expresses interest, the Lessee shall be required either to exercise or waive its option. Upon the exercise of an option to lease the lands, development fees would become due and owing. Development fees for the optioned lots are approximately $137,300 not included fees associated with connection to water and sewer. The option to lease additional lands for a period of more than twenty-one years will be subject to compliance with the Region’s Property Disposition By-law.



APPENDIX A: Leased Land Area 2 – Region of Waterloo International Airport – Lands to be leased will include Lots 10 and 11 with an option to lease Lots 9, 12, 13 and 14

http://www.wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/Joint2%20CR-RS-11-016%20E-11-037%20-%20Appendix%20A.jpg

[YKF]

New website for the Airport
http://waterlooairport.ca/en/

Air Service Annouced
http://waterlooairport.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=gzyzez7QxwumqjwReGz9VgeQuAleQuAl&newsId=KA5lA5Hx0vIhmh7CWwKpS4VTmweQuAleQuAl

*As additional equipment comes online, service via Ottawa will be terminated as early as fall 2011 in favour of all nonstop service.* -Bearskin Website

[jerryhung]

Bearskin flying to Montreal now

http://airlineroute.net/2011/03/25/jv-yul-s11/

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_sAqCif-2N9U/TYrUorqLhkI/AAAAAAAABB8/Zh4XRxnyuLU/s800/110324%20jv.jpg



Canadian regional carrier Bearskin Airlines from 01MAY11 is introducing Kitchener/Waterloo – Montreal service, operates up to 16 weekly, plus 10 weekly service via Ottawa. Operating aircraft is 19-seater Fairchild Metroliner.

Kitchener/Waterloo – Montreal
JV400 YKF0645 – 0815YUL SWM x167
JV402 YKF1015 – 1145YUL SWM x467
JV402 YKF1100 – 1230YUL SWM 6
JV406 YKF1645 – 1815YUL SWM x6

JV403 YUL0845 – 1015YKF SWM x7
JV405 YUL1430 – 1600YKF SWM x67
JV409 YUL1845 – 2015YKF SWM x67

Kitchener/Waterloo – Ottawa – Montreal
JV328 YKF1415 – 1525YOW1545 – 1615YUL SWM x67
JV326 YKF1910 – 2020YOW2040 – 2105YUL SWM x67

JV321 YUL0645 – 0715YOW0740 – 0850YKF SWM x67
JV327 YUL1645 – 1715YOW1735 – 1845YKF SWM x6

[plam]

Bearskin flying to Montreal now


Yep, I just booked YKF-YUL via YOW on May 6. It's good: I need to teach on Friday, but I also need to be in St-Hyacinthe for 7:30pm.

[UWaterloo]

Great news re. the Montreal service. Air Canada really dropped the ball when it comes to service to Waterloo Region. At least with Bearskin you get Aeroplan points so I guess thats something. I've never flown with them before so one day I'll have to try them out.

[WaterlooNative]

I understand to fly Bearskin is a unique experience.

I would rather have a better transit connection to Pearson than to YKF. For that matter, I dream of the day when we have better rail options to Ottawa and Montreal.

[plam]

I understand to fly Bearskin is a unique experience.

I would rather have a better transit connection to Pearson than to YKF. For that matter, I dream of the day when we have better rail options to Ottawa and Montreal.

I'm on the train now. It works pretty well if you're willing to drive to Oshawa. The problem is getting between Kitchener and Toronto. That service needs improvements.

[Waterlooer]

I'm on the train now. It works pretty well if you're willing to drive to Oshawa. The problem is getting between Kitchener and Toronto. That service needs improvements.

Agreed.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Bearskin Airlines takes flight to Montreal from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)
May 2, 2011 | YKF | Link (http://waterlooairport.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=gzyzez7QxwumqjwReGz9VgeQuAleQuAl&newsId=9lM0aIO10zMa6sSgQw8K3QeQuAleQuAl)

http://desmond.yfrog.com/Himg611/scaled.php?tn=0&server=611&filename=qacfz.jpg&xsize=640&ysize=640 (http://yfrog.com/gzqacfzj)

Thanks to Bearskin Airlines, getting to Montreal is a whole lot easier. Starting May 1, Bearskin Airlines will provide daily air service between Waterloo Region and Montreal’s Trudeau Airport with five flights each way, every business day; three non-stop flights and two one-stop flights via Ottawa; along with a reduced weekend schedule.

“Now, our community can fly to Montreal without having to drive to Toronto, receiving the same great service and frequency our Ottawa passengers enjoy,” said Chris Wood, General Manager of the Region of Waterloo International Airport. “Demand to Montreal is strong, and we are convinced local businesses will benefit from this new service. We are proud partners of Bearskin Airlines and are thrilled they chose to expand in our market.”

The days of driving to Toronto and needing to arrive 90 minutes prior to your departure are over. Bearskin guest’s travelling to Montreal will be able to arrive 45 minutes prior to their departure, and with a total flight time under one-and-a-half hours, arrive in Montreal in less time than it takes to get to the boarding gate at Toronto’s international airport.

"We are very pleased to welcome Bearskin Airlines. We certainly can take pride as this new non-stop service is a huge benefit for both Waterloo Region and Greater Montreal business communities,” commented Jim Cherry, CEO of Aéroports de Montréal.

Bearskin Airlines launched service to Ottawa from Waterloo Region in October 2007 and today, provide 30 non-stop flights each week to Ottawa. The Airline’s goal is to replicate the same success with Montreal by meeting the needs of the community through participation in Aeroplan by offering prime morning and evening flights timed for the business community.

“The demand for a convenient service between Waterloo Region and Montreal is clear,” commented Harvey Friesen, President of Bearskin Airlines. “We’ll fly between these cities in less time than it takes to drive between Toronto’s Pearson Airport and the Waterloo Region.”

Save up to four hours round-trip by flying from Waterloo Region instead of Toronto and collect Aeroplan points with every mile. To book your flight contact your local travel agent, visit www.bearskinairlines.com or call 1-800-465-2327.

Following are the details of service (Beginning May 1, 2011):

Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Montreal (YUL)

Monday to Friday Non-stop | Dep. 6:45 a.m. / Arr. 8:15 a.m.
Monday to Saturday Non-stop | Dep. 10:15a.m. / Arr. 11:45 a.m.
Monday to Friday Via Ottawa | Dep. 2:15 p.m. / Arr. 4:15 p.m.
Sunday to Friday Non-stop | Dep. 4:45 p.m. / Arr. 6:15 p.m.
Sunday to Friday Via Ottawa | Dep. 7:10 p.m. / Arr. 9:05 p.m.

Montreal (YUL) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)

Monday to Friday Via Ottawa | Dep. 6:45 a.m. / Arr. 8:50 a.m.
Monday to Saturday Nonstop | Dep. 8:45 a.m. / Arr. 10:15 a.m.
Monday to Friday Nonstop | Dep. 2:30 p.m. / Arr. 4:00 p.m.
Sunday to Friday Via Ottawa | Dep. 4:45 p.m. / Arr. 6:45 p.m.
Sunday to Friday Nonstop | Dep. 6:45 p.m. / Arr. 8:15 p.m.


Updated Route Map

http://wonderfulwaterloo.com/wdrive/Transportation%20and%20Infrastructure/Region%20of%20Waterloo%20International%20Airport/YKF%20Route%20Map%20-%20May%202,%202011.JPG

[Section ThirtyOne]

I didn't realize that Bearskin flew a non-stop to Calgary.

I'll have to keep that in mind next time I travel out there for business or pleasure.

[HillDweller]

I didn't realize that Bearskin flew a non-stop to Calgary.

I'll have to keep that in mind next time I travel out there for business or pleasure.

Westjet only.

[panamaniac]

Has anyone seen passenger numbers for 2010?

[Section ThirtyOne]

Westjet only.

Ahhh, so that isn't a Bearskin route map then.

Thanks for the clarification.

[WaterlooNative]

Bearskin flies to Ottawa and Montreal with connecting flights to North Bay and Sudbury.

Since YKF also handles (or handled?) charter flights south, those could be added with something noting that they are seasonal.

[IEFBR14]

I find these sorts of Route Maps to be hilarious. They show only WestJet's connecting flights in Calgary, Ottawa and Montreal. Why stop less than half way with this sort of marketing BS? They should include other airlines, Air Canada as well as international carriers, so they could show and claim worldwide connectivity from our modest little Region of Waterloo "International" Airport.

[IEFBR14]

Still early days and this may never happen, etc. but...

Controversial Toronto-area airport plan may soon take flight
12Jul11 | G+M | Link (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/controversial-toronto-area-airport-plan-may-soon-take-flight/article2094266/)
The federal government is revisiting a contentious decades-old plan to build a new airport northeast of Toronto under a scenario that could also see explosive growth at airports in Hamilton and Waterloo...

Under the scenarios envisioned by the study, Pearson will likely reach a maximum capacity of 54 million to 60 million passengers annually between 2027 and 2037, up from 32 million now. Meanwhile, John C. Munro International airport in Hamilton and Waterloo International Airport could see as many as 10.5 million and 6.9 million annual passengers, respectively – exponential increases, given that both airports currently serve a combined total of just 500,000 people every year.
To put that in perspective, the projection for Waterloo is about 20% of the traffic through Pearson today!

[mpd618]

Still early days and this may never happen, etc. but...

In what world would it make sense to spend dozens of billions of dollars on a second airport for Toronto instead of using that same amount to build high-speed rail from Toronto to Montreal, New York City, and Chicago?

[markster]

To put that in perspective, the projection for Waterloo is about 20% of the traffic through Pearson today!
It's also %150 of Ottawa Airport's current traffic.

[IEFBR14]

In what world would it make sense to spend dozens of billions of dollars on a second airport for Toronto instead of using that same amount to build high-speed rail from Toronto to Montreal, New York City, and Chicago?
<sarcasm>In a world where the federal government expropriated land for a future Pickering airport some 35 years ago despite major protests and has been itching to prove they made the right decision ever since. </sarcasm>

Even more curious given that Transport Canada also has responsibility for rail transportation policy.

More info about the above study is at Pickering Lands (http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/ontario/pickering-menu-1362.htm) (it also covers Hamilton and Waterloo airport expansion) along with a Feedback (http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/ontario/pickering-feedback-1517.htm) form where presumably you could ask if they even considered high speed rail as a means of relieving congestion at YYZ and thus obviating the need to develop a Pickering airport.

[plam]

In what world would it make sense to spend dozens of billions of dollars on a second airport for Toronto instead of using that same amount to build high-speed rail from Toronto to Montreal, New York City, and Chicago?

Mirabel? Oh wait, that never happened.

[bubak]

In what world would it make sense to spend dozens of billions of dollars on a second airport for Toronto instead of using that same amount to build high-speed rail from Toronto to Montreal, New York City, and Chicago?

I'm curious how much air traffic is to short-haul destinations that could be reached by rail. Rail won't get you to Europe or Asia, but it could relieve traffic at YYZ.

Is traffic really a big problem at YYZ? I thought terminal 1 was still half empty.

To me, the biggest problem with YYZ is how inaccessible it is. You have to sit for a completely unpredictable amount of time on the 401 in order to get there.

If we could go to Europe or Asia from YKF, that would be cool. But I wouldn't mind going to YYZ for that if there was a decent train connection. It doesn't have to be high speed rail. A boring slow regional train running at only 200 km/h or so would be plenty sufficient.

[KLM]

On a second thought why would they make another airport?

Very soon there will be airplanes handling almost double, passenger wise so no need for another airport.

My concern is what Durham region expects from this? More suburbs with industrial parks and endless parking lots?

Rerouting some flights ( not all ) to Waterloo and Hamilton would be better idea, I just don`t see myself going all the way to Pickering to fly elsewhere.

As bubak said problem with Pearson is lack of access, how to actually get there. which reminds me next Moday I have to pick up a friend and already makes me sick.

[plam]

On a second thought why would they make another airport?

Very soon there will be airplanes handling almost double, passenger wise so no need for another airport.


The US handles airports pretty differently from Canada: in particular, they tend to be subsidized as part of transportation infrastructure rather than taxed as sources of income. In the US, though, the problem in recent years has been a greatly-increasing number of small planes running very often, which could easily be replaced by larger planes. But they just aren't, because the marketing line is "flights every 30 minutes" or whatever. The existence of larger planes isn't going to solve that problem. More airport space would help, but more transit capacity to the airport wouldn't.



Rerouting some flights ( not all ) to Waterloo and Hamilton would be better idea, I just don`t see myself going all the way to Pickering to fly elsewhere.

Connections are a problem for flights to YKF and YHM. You can start and end there, but it's hard to get good connections. So they could handle short-haul flights, as mpd618 suggests, but it's hard for me to imagine them handling flights to Europe and Asia.

[KevinL]

My concern is what Durham region expects from this? More suburbs with industrial parks and endless parking lots?

I understand Durham is not the biggest fan of this project, but given that the government owns the land there's little they can say other than raising objections at environmental assessments, etc.

[garthdanlor]

Connections are a problem for flights to YKF and YHM. You can start and end there, but it's hard to get good connections. So they could handle short-haul flights, as mpd618 suggests, but it's hard for me to imagine them handling flights to Europe and Asia.
Low cost carriers (like Easyjet, Ryanair, etc.) and charters often operate in relatively out of the way airports so perhaps we could attract those sorts of airlines to YKF. I don't think connections would be quite as important with that type of business, and while the majority of traffic would likely be short haul, I could see low cost/charter flights to London and Frankfurt and perhaps a few more major destinations working (if not now, in 10-20 years time). We might not be able to play role of Gatwick to Pearson's Heathrow but we could at least play the role of an airport such as London Luton. Incidentally, London has 5 main airports (all International) but they are also currently discussing a new major airport ( http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/AnewairportforLondon.pdf (the report discusses the failure of Mirabel)).

[plam]

Low cost carriers (like Easyjet, Ryanair, etc.) and charters often operate in relatively out of the way airports so perhaps we could attract those sorts of airlines to YKF. I don't think connections would be quite as important with that type of business, and while the majority of traffic would likely be short haul, I could see low cost/charter flights to London and Frankfurt and perhaps a few more major destinations working (if not now, in 10-20 years time). We might not be able to play role of Gatwick to Pearson's Heathrow but we could at least play the role of an airport such as London Luton. Incidentally, London has 5 main airports (all International) but they are also currently discussing a new major airport ( http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/AnewairportforLondon.pdf (the report discusses the failure of Mirabel)).

Yes, that's true. Air Transat does operate quite a bit out of Montreal Trudeau though. But I have to say that these carriers aren't quite on my radar. I don't really know how sustainable they are.

[bubak]

Low cost carriers (like Easyjet, Ryanair, etc.) and charters often operate in relatively out of the way airports so perhaps we could attract those sorts of airlines to YKF. I don't think connections would be quite as important with that type of business, and while the majority of traffic would likely be short haul, I could see low cost/charter flights to London and Frankfurt and perhaps a few more major destinations working (if not now, in 10-20 years time). We might not be able to play role of Gatwick to Pearson's Heathrow but we could at least play the role of an airport such as London Luton. Incidentally, London has 5 main airports (all International) but they are also currently discussing a new major airport ( http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/AnewairportforLondon.pdf (the report discusses the failure of Mirabel)).

Flyglobespan used to fly YHM to various places in the UK and Ireland, but they went under a couple years ago.

Flycentraleurope was going to fly YHM to several places in (you guessed it) central Europe this year, but they went under just a few days before they got started.

I wonder what is causing them to all die.

None out of YKF that I know of.

One thing that's actually nice about Air Transat is that they have direct flights to many destinations to which no other carrier has a direct flight.

Given the great rail system in Europe, you often don't really need an air connection once you land there. Unfortunately, once you land at YYZ, you're pretty much stuck in Mississauga.

[KayDubya]

http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/564041--joy-dismay-over-possible-airport-expansion

I'd love to see this happen but I wouldn't hold my breath. Nearly 7 million passengers a year at YKF.:RpS_drool:

[KevinL]

From the article linked by Kay Dubya:

Local politicians and airport neighbours had no input into the 289-page planning report released this week. It was prepared for Transport Canada by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority.
(my emphasis)

That's a great source! May as well have a wolf advise on the security of your flock of sheep.

[dunkalunk]

Is it just me, or have they disabled commenting on Jeff Outhit's articles?

[KevinL]

Is it just me, or have they disabled commenting on Jeff Outhit's articles?

They're open now on this article.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) Seeks Business Travel Information to and from Windsor-Essex
July 26, 2011 | YKF | Link (http://waterlooairport.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=gzyzez7QxwumqjwReGz9VgeQuAleQuAl&newsId=FWyMw54DDVy05lA5Hmf9MowQqgeQuAleQuAl)

The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) seeks information from companies that have offices, plants, or facilities in both Kitchener-Waterloo and Windsor-Essex. The Airport has launched an air service survey, collecting data on travel patterns between the two communities that will be shared with prospective airlines in support of the recruitment of air service on the route. An airline has shown interest in serving the Kitchener Waterloo – Windsor-Essex route, and the data collected by the Airport will help ensure that airline has the best possible picture of the potential market strength.

The survey is open to anyone with an interest in the potential service, to access the survey click here (http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e4cvmsz3gq5najtu/start).



498
Survey Link (http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e4cvmsz3gq5najtu/a0241pgqn9aljm/greeting)

The Region of Waterloo International Airport - YKF, in conjunction with the Windsor International Airport - YQG, has been working to expand flight options for regional business travelers. Of interest to one airline are the specific business connections between Windsor/Essex and Kitchener/Waterloo. A moment of your time to fill out this survey will help us better gauge demand for potential non-stop flights.

How many times per year do you and/or your company travel between the Kitchener/Waterloo area and Windsor/Essex area?

None
1 to 5
6 to 10
11 to 20
21 to 30
31 to 50
51 to 75
76 or More (list a specific number, if possible)

How do you typically travel between the Kitchener/Waterloo area and the Windsor/Essex area? You may select more than one answer.

By Train
By Air - Private Aircraft
By Car
By Van/Bus Service
Other

If you travel for business between the Kitchener/Waterloo area and the Windsor/Essex area, what is your company's annual budget for travel between the two regions - by all modes of transportation?

Less than $1,000
$1,001 - $5,000
$5,001 - $10,000
$10,001 - $25,000
$25,001 - $50,000
$50,001 or more (list a specific amount, if possible)

Would you be interested in an airline providing non-stop service between the Region of Waterloo International Airport - YKF and Windsor International Airport - YQG?

Yes
No
Maybe

Are you, or is your company, willing to consider pre-purchasing tickets, at a potential discount, on a new scheduled airline service between the Kitchener/Waterloo area and the Windsor/Essex area?

Yes
No
Maybe

[DHLawrence]

Sounds promising. Maybe they could use the existing Porter flights to the Island Airport--pick uponly westbound and drop off only eastbound.

[panamaniac]

I think a new Bearskin flight might be more likely, if the study shows there might be a market. Too bad there seems to be no chance of the Detroit service being restarted.

[UrbanWaterloo]

NEW COMBINED SERVICES BUILDING OPEN AT REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
August 2, 2011 | Region of Waterloo | Link (http://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=58cynQlfgqiAYQyTLmpurQeQuAleQuAl&newsId=R3ePlUsdMPbrMyo64HT5lA5HNKcmAeQuAleQuAl)

Officials gathered at the Region of Waterloo International Airport today to officially open its new combined maintenance and fire hall facility.

The spacious, multipurpose building features environmentally sustainable technologies and was built to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver standards. It enables airport staff to conduct all regular maintenance work on-site and provides ample storage for fire vehicles and equipment. When the former fire hall is removed later this summer, landing limits will also be significantly reduced.

“Investing in infrastructure projects that bring real benefits to communities is important to our government, and the improvements to airport management that will result from this new building are immense,” said the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. “We are proud to have supported this project at the Region of Waterloo International Airport that has consolidated airport maintenance services under one roof.”

"This is a great new facility that will mean the Region of Waterloo International Airport can continue to grow and improve transportation services,” said Leeanna Pendergast, Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener—Conestoga. “Growing will mean more jobs, more opportunities, and most important, the safety of all people that use this airport remains the top priority."

“The completion of the Combined Services Facility is another step forward in achieving Council’s plans for the Airport, said Ken Seiling, Regional Chair. “The Region of Waterloo International Airport is an important part of the Region’s economic infrastructure and the new Combined Services Facility will help ensure the continued efficiency, safety and reliability of airport operations well into the future.“

The governments of Canada and Ontario each committed nearly $2.4 million toward this project through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The Regional Municipality of Waterloo contributed the balance of the total eligible project cost of $7.1 million.

Federal funding for this project comes from the Government of Canada’s Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, which is supporting over 4,100 infrastructure projects across the country.

[UrbanWaterloo]

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN AIRPORT SAFETY AT THE REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
August 2, 2011 | Region of Waterloo | Link (http://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=58cynQlfgqiAYQyTLmpurQeQuAleQuAl&newsId=kd3C1lmXRREVcPnEEyiqgAeQuAleQuAl)

The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, announced today that the Government of Canada is investing more than $3.2 million in improvements to the Region of Waterloo International Airport. Under the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), the money will be used to partially rehabilitate the pavement on Runway 08-26.

“The Government of Canada is committed to the safety and security of all Canadians,” said Minister Lebel. “We recognize that efficient and safe airports are vital to the local economies of smaller communities, which is why we are investing in safety improvement projects at regional and local airports across the country.”

This year, the Government of Canada is investing more than $20.9 million for 27 projects at 23 airports. Improvements include replacing snowblowers and runway sweepers; purchasing runway de-icing and fire-fighting equipment; and rehabilitating runway pavements.

“The Region of Waterloo is committed to high standards for the Region of Waterloo International Airport,” said Ken Seiling, regional chair. “The ACAP funding from the Government of Canada for the partial rehabilitation of Runway 08-26 is greatly appreciated and supports our culture of safety at the airport.”

“Waterloo International Airport, or YKF as my luggage is tagged, plays a vital role in our local economy,” said Harold Albrecht, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga. “These runway improvements are vital to continuing safe, predictable flights at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. Our government is committed to supporting smaller regional airports across Canada and the businesses that have come to rely heavily on them.”

To date, through ACAP, the Government of Canada has invested a total of $556 million for 678 projects at 171 airports, including today’s announcement. Over 99 per cent of these projects were airside safety-related projects such as runways, taxiways and visual aids, as well as heavy airside mobile equipment such as fire trucks and snowplows.

[mpd618]

Big news for the airport is coming tomorrow at 9am (http://www.facebook.com/FlyYKF/posts/10150436073728611); press conference at 10am (https://twitter.com/#!/FlyYKF/status/146438975270305792).

[panamaniac]

What will it be? Chicago? Newark?

[HillDweller]

What will it be? Chicago? Newark?

Chicago​

[UrbanWaterloo]

American Eagle Airlines announces new double daily jet service to Chicago O’Hare from the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF)
December 13, 2011 | YKF | Link (http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=gzyzez7QxwumqjwReGz9VgeQuAleQuAl&newsId=iYRmy3kv2NAtuTOWP1C00weQuAleQuAl)

Today American Eagle, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, announced that they will launch round-trip service between Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Waterloo Region starting June 14, 2012. The 13 round-trip flights per week will be operated with 50-seat Embraer Regional Jets.

The new daily air service from Waterloo Region to Chicago is the result of many months of ongoing discussions with American Airlines and the local business community.

“We are thrilled that American Airlines is coming to Waterloo Region. This new all jet service will provide our community with a Chicago same day business travel option and access to destinations around the world,” said Ken Seiling, Waterloo Regional Chair. “We believe this service will make flying more convenient for everyone and will also have the added benefit of encouraging investment and jobs in our community.”

As one of the world's largest airlines, American's global network strengthens economies worldwide. American contributes directly by creating jobs and paying salaries, paying taxes and fees to governments, investing in transportation infrastructure, and supporting local suppliers, who in turn employ local workers. In addition, American Airlines in-kind and fundraising activities - as a company and through their employees' efforts - have a significant economic impact on the local organizations and causes that they support.

"We're pleased to introduce scheduled jet service to Waterloo Region from our cornerstone hub in Chicago," said Gary Foss, Managing Director – Network Planning for American Airlines. "This schedule will allow customers to make a day trip to Chicago for business or connect through this key international gateway to destinations throughout the American Airlines and oneworld® global network.”



Chicago O’Hare to Waterloo Region

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="698"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Flight</strong></p> </td> <td width="188" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Departs</strong></p> </td> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Arrives</strong></p> </td> <td width="195" valign="top"> <p><strong>Frequency</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p>4161</p> </td> <td width="188" valign="bottom"> <p>1:20 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p>&nbsp; 3:55 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="195" valign="top"> <p>Daily</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p>4211</p> </td> <td width="188" valign="bottom"> <p>7:50 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="158" valign="bottom"> <p>&nbsp;10:15 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="195" valign="top"> <p>Daily, Except Sat.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

Waterloo Region to Chicago O’Hare

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="698"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="158"> <p><strong>Flight</strong></p> </td> <td width="188"> <p><strong>Departs</strong></p> </td> <td width="158"> <p><strong>Arrives</strong></p> </td> <td width="195"> <p><strong>Frequency</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="158"> <p>4210*</p> </td> <td width="188"> <p>&nbsp;6:30 a.m.</p> </td> <td width="158"> <p>&nbsp; 6:55 a.m.</p> </td> <td width="195"> <p>Daily</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="158"> <p>4153</p> </td> <td width="188"> <p>&nbsp;4:40 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="158"> <p>&nbsp; 5:15 p.m.</p> </td> <td width="195"> <p>Daily, Except Sat.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

* Flight begins June 15, 2012


“Daily jet service to Chicago is what our business community asked us for, and we are pleased to be here today announcing just that,” said Chris Wood, Airport General Manager at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. “This service by American Airlines, along with their oneworld® partner airlines open greater access to the World from Waterloo Region. There are 690,000 passengers a year travelling between Waterloo Region and the United States that will now be able to fly through Chicago to cities like San Diego or Salt Lake City or San Antonio, and enjoy the convenience of flying from home.”

On November 29th, 2011, American Airlines initiated a restructuring process which will ensure its profitability, operating flexibility and long term financial strength. The Region of Waterloo is confident that American Airlines will emerge from its restructuring well positioned to continue to serve our community. For more information on American Airlines restructuring visit: http://www.aa.com/restructuring

Choose the local alternative! The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate with: complimentary baggage carts; FREE high-speed wireless internet; licensed departure lounge café, operated by Edelweiss (valid boarding pass required); National and AVIS car rentals available on-site; and reasonable parking rates. No traffic jams or lost vehicles, just convenient and friendly air service.

Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) is a full service certified facility that supports commercial, corporate and general aviation and is owned and operated by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo. Scheduled air service is provided by: WestJet, non-stop daily to Calgary with connections to other great cities; Bearskin Airlines, multiple flights daily to Ottawa and Montreal: and now starting in June 2012 American Airlines, twice daily to Chicago with connections to over 140 destinations worldwide. Sunwing Airlines provide weekly non-stop service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic from mid-December through mid-March. For more information contact your travel agent, or visit www.waterlooairport.ca.

American Eagle – named Best Regional Airline in North America by the 2011 World Airline Awards – operates more than 1,500 daily flights to over 170 cities throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, Mexico and the Caribbean on behalf of American Airlines. American, American Eagle and the AmericanConnection® carrier serve 260 airports in 50 countries and territories with, on average, more than 3,300 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members and members-elect serve approximately 900 destinations with more than 10,000 daily flights to 149 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com and AAdvantage are registered trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE: AMR).

[BuildingScout]

This is awesome. I bet if you count total travel time, the cheapest and fastest way to fly international to most places is now: drive to YKF, fly to Chicago, connect to a direct flight there.

[tomthip]

This is awesome. I bet if you count total travel time, the cheapest and fastest way to fly international to most places is now: drive to YKF, fly to Chicago, connect to a direct flight there.

American customs could be a pain for international connection having to un-check your luggage to go through screening then re-check to board your connecting flight. At least that's been my experience 3-4 years ago when I stop trying to connect to through the US. The shorter commute and the shorter check-in at YKF compare to YYZ definately make-up for some of that pain.

Overall this is definately a good step for the region. I will certainly give it a try for US destinations.

[Waterlooer]

What's the cost from here to Chicago?

[plam]

American customs could be a pain for international connection having to un-check your luggage to go through screening then re-check to board your connecting flight. At least that's been my experience 3-4 years ago when I stop trying to connect to through the US. The shorter commute and the shorter check-in at YKF compare to YYZ definately make-up for some of that pain.

Overall this is definately a good step for the region. I will certainly give it a try for US destinations.

Air Canada does sell tickets from the US to international destinations through Canada, and they are a bit cheaper than ones that don't connect. However, connecting in the US can be more of a pain; in fact, when connecting through Canada, it's even possible to not have to get your luggage checked. I don't think the US really does that (but I could be wrong). Concrete example: you can currently buy a ticket ORD-YYZ-NRT from Air Canada for $870, while the cheapest flight that doesn't connect in Canada is $1044.

The US doesn't currently have much cheaper flights for international destinations than Canada. For instance, going to Tokyo from San Francisco costs about $1000, while going from Vancouver costs $1100.

Connections to Europe are going to be iffy with a 5pm arrival time in Chicago. You can fly to some places (Warsaw, Istanbul), but Frankfurt is either a 6:30pm or 10:30pm departure. Asian flights depart in the morning.

[YKF]

This is fantastic news for Waterloo Region! Important connections exist at Chicago from AA's network, such as LA, San Francisco, San Diego, and Tokyo, which should be a benefit to local businesses.

[plam]

This is fantastic news for Waterloo Region! Important connections exist at Chicago from AA's network, such as LA, San Francisco, San Diego, and Tokyo, which should be a benefit to local businesses.

West Coast connectivity will be quite good, with lots of flight options, and the flights should be fairly cheap. Tokyo, though, not so much; there aren't that many nonstops from Chicago to Tokyo (10:30am and noon), and they'll probably be quite expensive. It probably makes more sense to fly out of Pearson to go to Asia for most people.

[jerryhung]

I agree this is good news too, especially it's to ORD (vs. DTW) where one can connect to United as well, even if it's on American Eagle ER4

Now the key thing is the price as always

I'm curious to read about the market research/study AA did before announcing this route...I assume they did one

[YKF]

Here's the airliners.net forum post on the new route.
http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/general_aviation/read.main/5332615/ (http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/general_aviation/read.main/5332615/)

This comment seems pretty accurate:
" I'm sure most people perusing this thread read about the two RIM employees who caused the diversion to YVR of an AC B777 that was bound for China. Both pax were senior RIM execs and upper tier Aeroplan members. RIM paid some serious $$$ for those fares (both were in J, IIRC). Just take a look at RIM's worldwide reach, then imagine some of those pax connecting on AA or other OneWorld members thru ORD instead of going thru YYZ and AC.

Then add the multitude of established tech companies in the area, plus the upstarts, and you have the customer base AA is targeting. Higher-yield pax making North American and global connections, enough to offset the cost of running an ERJ on the route."

[BuildingScout]

I'm curious to read about the market research/study AA did before announcing this route...I assume they did one


Then add the multitude of established tech companies in the area, plus the upstarts, and you have the customer base AA is targeting.

In similar cases, I've heard that the airline pre-sells blocks of tickets to local businesses to ensure that they won't lose money during the first year. I wouldn't be surprised if we were to learn that Google, Open Text, and RIM among others bought a few hundred tickets each.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Sunwing’s Punta Cana, Dominican Republic flight returns to Region of Waterloo International Airport
December 21, 2011 | YKF | Link (http://www.waterlooairport.ca/en/newslist/index.aspx?corpId=gzyzez7QxwumqjwReGz9VgeQuAleQuAl&newsId=qrBKWePyoOho5BbgYM3T4geQuAleQuAl)

Sunwing Airlines first flight to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic will take flight from the Region of Waterloo International Airport later today and it is sold out!

“We are pleased to have Sunwing Airlines back in Waterloo Region offering sun deprived residents a stress free beginning and end to their Dominican Republic vacation. Passengers here enjoy a quick check in, efficient security screening and speedy processing at Canada Customs and you can be home before you could find your car at other airports,” said Chris Wood, General Manager at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

Every guest travelling from Waterloo Region aboard Sunwing Airlines will enjoy Elite Service at no additional charge including a “bon voyage” glass of champagne, hot towel service, choice of hot meals served with wine, and in-flight first run movies with yours-to-keep headsets and free checked baggage up to 20 kg per person.

“We are happy to again offer our customers holidays departing from the Region of Waterloo International Airport,” said Daryl McWilliams, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Sunwing Travel Group. “The convenience of a regional airport is particularly emphasized during the winter months, when the close proximity of the airport provides area residents with an important travel advantage. Our customers in the Kitchener/Waterloo region have certainly embraced our selection of Punta Cana which is shaping up to be a hot, top seller this year. With new programs at our designated Smile Resorts offering great added value for families, and RIU Hotels and Resorts featuring the brand new Riu Palace Bavaro as well as the newly renovated Riu Naiboa, travellers have excellent choices for their best vacation spot.”

Following are the schedule details for the Kitchener-Waterloo winter program:


Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ)Sunwing
Wednesday
Depart 4:35 p.m. / Arrive 9:45 p.m. Local Time


Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) to Kitchener/Waterloo (YKF)Sunwing
Wednesday
Depart 12:10 p.m. / Arrive 3:35 p.m. Local

[plam]

I read that Bearskin is cutting the nonstop flights to Montreal, unfortunately, and is only going to offer connecting service through Montreal, due to a lack of demand. Sigh.

[Greg Moore]

I would love to see winter flights to Florida from YKF. Orlando, Tampa, or Miami. Any would do.

[BuildingScout]

I read that Bearskin is cutting the nonstop flights to Montreal, unfortunately, and is only going to offer connecting service through Montreal, due to a lack of demand. Sigh.

I really wamt YKF to be successful as I'm tired of commuting to Pearson, but I just don't see demand for flights to Montreal, not now, not ever, or at least not until Montreal becomes once again a place where companies locate their headquarters. I much rather have flights to Calgary and Vancouver, even Halifax in the summer (which serves all the Maritime provinces) than Montreal.

As for international destinations, I think there is room for a twice weekly charter to Frankfurt or Heathrow, or even Dublin if there is code sharing with RyanAir at the other end.

[Duck]

I would love to see winter flights to Florida from YKF. Orlando, Tampa, or Miami. Any would do.

Agreed! When we travel to Florida, we usually end up driving to Buffalo the night before, and flying out of there with Southwest (far cheaper than Pearson).

-Iain

[DHLawrence]

Montreal works as a gateway to eastern markets, just as Chicago is a gateway to the west and Asia. Europe would be nice but I don't see it happening any time soon. The last airline to try flying transatlantic out of a non-Pearson airport in the area went under--and the other didn't even get off the ground.

And I would rather see a code-share arrangement with about any other airline in Europe than Ryanair. Nobody should have to pay a hundred pounds to check a suitcase.

[BuildingScout]

And I would rather see a code-share arrangement with about any other airline in Europe than Ryanair. Nobody should have to pay a hundred pounds to check a suitcase.

I don't know where you get your hundred pound figure to check a suitcase in Ryanair. The charge for first suitcase (20kg) is 25 euro in low season and 35 euro in high season. Even after these charges the price per ticket is almost always below what big carriers charge.

AirCanada on the other hand does charge $100 for every suitcase above the two piece limit.

[BuildingScout]

The last airline to try flying transatlantic out of a non-Pearson airport in the area went under--and the other didn't even get off the ground.

Most airlines have the wrong cost structure, so failure for them does not imply failure in general. United, American, Continental, Air Canada and the rest of all other large carriers have spent the last twenty years in and out of bankruptcy, while at the very same time Southwest, WestJet, Ryanair, Virgin Air and EasyJet have consistenlty posted profits.

[garthdanlor]

I don't know where you get your hundred pound figure to check a suitcase in Ryanair. The charge for first suitcase (20kg) is 25 euro in low season and 35 euro in high season. Even after these charges the price per ticket is almost always below what big carriers charge.
/
I've used Ryanair (Easyjet and the like) numerous times because their fares do often work out cheaper than regular carriers. There is no doubt however that they nickel and dime you with various credit card and transaction fees, online check-in fees and various luggage fees. Last year they threatened me (but didn't proceed) with a ticket reprinting charge because I had printed mine on NA standard Letter rather than A4?? They are particulalry strict with carry-on luggage weights (something I support) and seem make a mint off of these every flight, ambushing passengers as they board. At least they never implemented the "pay per pee" charge! Still they do get you to your destination and as long as you can ignore the non-stop sales pitches of their snacks, lottery tickets, gifts, etc during the flight then you are none the worse for the experience.

It should be noted that there often is an additional surcharge of both time and expense once you arrive at your destination as the do tend to use secondary and tertiary airports that can actually be a considerable distance from the city you have booked to fly to, and often with relatively poor transportation links. Sort of like thinking that you have flown to Toronto, only to arrive in unlovely Breslau! Saying that, I would love to have this option available locally.

[plam]

I've used Ryanair (Easyjet and the like) numerous times because their fares do often work out cheaper than regular carriers. There is no doubt however that they nickel and dime you with various credit card and transaction fees, online check-in fees and various luggage fees. Last year they threatened me (but didn't proceed) with a ticket reprinting charge because I had printed mine on NA standard Letter rather than A4?? They are particulalry strict with carry-on luggage weights (something I support) and seem make a mint off of these every flight, ambushing passengers as they board. At least they never implemented the "pay per pee" charge! Still they do get you to your destination and as long as you can ignore the non-stop sales pitches of their snacks, lottery tickets, gifts, etc during the flight then you are none the worse for the experience.


Flying sucks for different reasons on different continents; in Europe, it seems that many carriers do strictly enforce weight restrictions for carry-on. Lufthansa did for me. On the other hand, I recently tried to look for the carry-on weight restriction on N. American flights and couldn't even find it.


It should be noted that there often is an additional surcharge of both time and expense once you arrive at your destination as the do tend to use secondary and tertiary airports that can actually be a considerable distance from the city you have booked to fly to, and often with relatively poor transportation links. Sort of like thinking that you have flown to Toronto, only to arrive in unlovely Breslau! Saying that, I would love to have this option available locally.

Would be good for taxi drivers! I could totally see YKF as being a substitute for Toronto for nontraditional airlines, though.

As for gateways, I don't think a lot of people fly to YUL and then onwards to somewhere in the east. You'd want to coordinate schedules if you wanted that to happen.

[zanate]

Pleased to mention that I will be taking advantage of YKF's Punta Cana charter in a few weeks. We've used YKF once before when Sunwing had flights to Montego Bay but they cut the Jamaica and Cancun flights a couple of years ago.

It's interesting to look at price premiums for flying out of YKF vs. YYZ, which is the most competitive departure airport in Canada for that sort of thing. This time around, that premium is a little over $100pp. In exchange, though, YKF spares a lot of hassles and expenses. Last year I tried a park-sleep-fly arrangement at YYZ and it wasn't worth it-- my car still ended up in a distant park'n'fly lot (the hotel outsourced its parking arrangement) and sleep was hard to come by in a noisy hotel. Then, an early morning dealing with the insanity of the airport.

In contrast, YKF is so small you can park (assuming you even drive) and walk right in. On return, even when getting baggage searched by customs, time from touchdown to car was half an hour in our experience.

Of course, you're limited in destination choice. And in 2009 Sunwing combined our flight with a Toronto charter, which means we didn't fly direct but puddlejumped to Pearson.

[DHLawrence]

I don't know where you get your hundred pound figure to check a suitcase in Ryanair. The charge for first suitcase (20kg) is 25 euro in low season and 35 euro in high season. Even after these charges the price per ticket is almost always below what big carriers charge.

Until next summer, according to the Daily Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/8944478/Ryanair-passengers-face-100-bag-charge.html).

Did they ever go through with the plan to sell tickets for standing places on board?

[BuildingScout]

Until next summer, according to the Daily Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/8944478/Ryanair-passengers-face-100-bag-charge.html).

The article is a bit unclear, but it seems the increase is for check in at the airport only:


While the fee Ryanair demands for checking in a bag online will remain unchanged, the cost for doing so by telephone or at the airport will rise dramatically.


However this alone makes me not want to fly with them ever again:


The no-frills airline is also pushing up its fee for printing a boarding card at the airport from £40 to £60.

[KevinL]

Did they ever go through with the plan to sell tickets for standing places on board?

Nope, never got past safety regs.

[UWaterloo]

Great news re. the Chicago service. Mind you I'd rather an Aeroplan partner like United over AA. Haven't used ONE WORLD since the demise of Canadian.

[BuildingScout]

I'm curious to read about the market research/study American Eagle did before announcing this route...I assume they did one

It just occurred to me that the Toyota plant in Indiana is five hours due south of O'Hare or a short 50 minutes flight from O'Hare to nearby Evansville Airport with four connections daily by, you guessed it, American Eagle.

It wouldn't surprise me at all if Toyota pre-purchased a few thousand tickets.

Side note: before the car market implosion of a few years back, Toyota would fly its own private plane back and fro to Indiana every day. I understand those flights stopped after the North American car market sales collapse.

This brings to three the count of offices in Waterloo with strong connections to O'Hare: Toyota as mentioned above, Open Text with Global headquarters in suburban Chicago, and Google whose local android team is likely to interact heavily with recently acquired Motorola Mobility also headquartered in suburban Chicago.

[RangersFan]

Major project at the region's airport
May 2, 2012 | By Tiffany Hendsbee | 570 News | LINK (http://www.570news.com/news/local/article/358455--major-project-at-the-region-s-airport)

A major construction project is underway at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

Crews have been working day and night for about a week, ripping up 5,200' of the airport's 7,000' main runway.

Airport General Manager, Chris Wood, says it's been a short but extreme project with work expected to wrap up by May 12th. "It was nearing the end of it's useful life," he says of the runway.

Wood tells 570 News, as the airport has grown, so has the need for repairs. "WestJet is operating quite heavy aircraft on it daily. That did reduce the expected life we thought we had out of the runway. But, none the less, we're taking this opportunity to strengthen it so that will not happen in the future."