While the Timmins airport usage is on the upswing, it's not back to pre-COVID-19 numbers, says a staff report.
An update Victor M. Power Airport is on the May 14 Timmins council agenda. Coun. John Curley asked for the report at the last meeting.
In it, airport manager Dave Dayment said the Canadian aviation industry is still feeling the effects of COVID-19. He notes the thousands of pilots that are needed to fill shortages, and that eight discount airlines are grounded.
"On the plus side, the Timmins airport is seeing an increase in air traffic and passenger movements. While we're not yet at pre-COVID-19 numbers, numbers are increasing. Estimated aircraft movements are 20,000 in 2024 vs. 18,000 in 2021. Our airline schedules also consist of more flights than some other regional airports of similar size," the report reads.
The scheduled passenger service airlines in Timmins are:
- Air Creebec - Operates over 70 flights per week to Moosonee, Fort Albany, Kashechewan and Attawapiskat.
- Thunder Airlines - Operates over 60 flights a week to Moosonee, Fort Albany, Kashechewan and Attawapiskat.
- Porter Airlines - Operates one return flight per day seven days a week.
- Air Canada - Operates two daily return flights seven days a week. A third return flight is being added on June 2.
There are also five airlines offering charter services and tenants, such as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, ORNGE, and vehicle rental companies.
Dayment and Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau have had virtual meetings with Porter and Air Canada, which were facilitated by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, according to the report.
"Flight schedules and flight times were the focus of discussion," it reads.
"Porter quite frankly stated that they would not add an additional flight at this time. Load factors seemed to be the reason."
The full report is available here.
Timmins council meets at 6 p.m. on May 14 at Timmins city hall.
Watch the meeting live online here.
