2002-09_skytalk by Skytalk Newspaper

F R E E SEPTEMBER 2002 • Your Airport Community Newspaper – Vancouver International Airport

Jim Jorgenson Photo

WestJet’s Spectacular Expansion To Continue By Phil Melnychuk estJet has moved furniture and added space to its customer service counters to accommodate renovations to Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) domestic terminal. Chances are the airline will need all of that customer space to make room for its growth in the next few years. After its launch with three aircraft in 1996 (then, 220 employees; now 2,700), connecting Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Kelowna, the end of this year will see the company with 34 aircraft in the skies. And while the low-fare airline’s roots lie in the bread-and-butter,

short-haul commutes, those distances will grow as the airline expands. With this in mind, the airline has ordered the new, more-efficient Boeing 737700 aircraft, which run between US$47 million and US$55 million each. New orders will see the fleet size grow to 39 by the end of 2003, and 50 by 2006, at which time the airline has an option to buy another 54. According to WestJet’s 2001 annual report, the airline has placed orders for lease or purchase of 38 new 737-700s from 2002 to 2005. 40% Growth Per Year With news of airlines struggling in the U.S., WestJet’s plans are a beacon in today’s aviation industry.

Here’s What You Think of Canada’s Airline Industry n March 2002, a national survey of 2,083 adult Canadians was conducted to provide Transport Canada with insight into Canadian public attitudes towards key issues and trade-offs with respect to the current structure of Canada’s airline industry and potential alternative structures. The following is a summary of the results of this survey. Air Travel Habits • Fewer Canadians travelled by air for personal reasons in 2001/2002 compared to 1999 (37% vs. 44%), but the proportion of business travellers remained stable (15% vs. 18%). • One-quarter of all Canadians flew at least once on Air Canada last year. – 60% of air travellers flew at least once on Air Canada last year. – One in five air travellers flew on WestJet.

Airline Choice • The most important stated reasons for choosing an airline are: – Safety (92%) – Value for money (88%) – Competitive fares (87%)

SEE WHAT YOU THINK, PAGE 3

40th Air Show A Big Success S P 7 EE AGE

SEE WESTJET, PAGE 2

Jetsgo Doubles Daily Montreal-Toronto Flights ancouver-Toronto bound passengers with connections to Montreal will be interested to learn that Jetsgo has doubled its daily weekday flights between Montreal and Toronto to 12 flights a day. A reduced schedule operates on weekends. “We’ve had a strong demand from business travellers for more frequency between Canada’s two major cities,”

says Michel Leblanc, president and general manager of Jetsgo. “The transition from our summer to fall schedule allows us to offer a much improved business-oriented schedule. To accommodate this change, service to Vancouver and Winnipeg will now be once daily.” A one-way ticket starts at $89, with flights available for booking

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beginning August 22. Montreal Monday to Friday departures will be at 7:00 a.m., 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., and 12:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Toronto departures are at 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., and 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

SEE JETSGO, PAGE 2

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I N T H E D O M E ST I C T E R M I N A L B U I L D I N G – L E V E L I * YVR is the international aeronautical designation for Vancouver International Airport.

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WESTJET,

But it will continue to rely on the tried and true workhorse, the 737, though increasingly it will be the new Boeing 737-900 with its extended range of 6,232 kilometres (compared to 4,074 kms for a B-737700). By sticking to one aircraft, “that provides us with great savings and great economy,” says Vinish. “We’re very pleased with this aircraft and don’t see a reason for us to change,” she continued. Single-airplane fleet The single-airplane business model for lowfare airlines isn’t unique to WestJet. The company fashioned itself after Southwest Airlines in the U.S., which has since been replicated around the world. Ryanair and EasyJet in Europe and GOL Airlines in Brazil and Australia’s Virgin Blue use the same approach. Advantages of a single-airplane fleet include lower maintenance and inventory costs and simplified fleet management, writes Kathleen Hanser on Boeing’s Web site. Record keep-

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The folks at Boeing’s offices and plants in Seattle and Renton, WA, must love the airline. “We’re one of the few airlines around the world doing such things,” says WestJet’s spokesperson Siobhan Vinish, referring to the airline’s expansion plans. Projected growth rate each year for the next four years is 40 per cent, Vinish confirms matter-of-factly from WestJet’s Calgary office. The airline is known for offering low-cost, short-haul flights designed to stimulate air passenger traffic because of its affordability. This tactic has worked, though some backtracking has occurred. WestJet has eliminated 13 flights between Calgary and Edmonton, a result, company officials say, of the $24 airport security levy

JETSGO,

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brought into being on flights in Canada, post-September 11. It’s also reduced frequency on the VancouverKelowna route. However, the airline now flies to 22 cities, including Hamilton, ON, and Moncton, NB, and even Thompson, MAN and Comox, BC. The failure of Canada 3000 and the merging of Canadian Airlines with Air Canada “provided a lot of opportunity to provide mid- and longterm service in the country,” says Vinish. Cross Border Plans Expansion southward is also in the plans. WestJet is considering flying to U.S. destinations within a few years, but it’s too early to say which cities, says Vinish.

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During July 2002, Jetsgo reported that it flew its planes at 72.5 per cent of available capacity. Revenue passenger miles (RPMs) were 45,186,427 of its available seat miles (ASMs) of 62,335,840. The discount airline reported an 8.5 per cent increase over its June

load factor, which covered the period from its launch on June 12 to June 30, 2002. Headquartered in Montreal with 225 employees, Jetsgo serves select domestic routes between Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Winnipeg.

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tor Patricia York says in 2001, WestJet, along with Southwest in the U.S., were the only two airlines that finished in the black in North America.

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(left to right) Lloyd Whittall, airside manager, Melissa Wu, customer service agent, Linda Dawe, station manager and Gerry Tremblett, daily operations coordinator.

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ing, technical manuals, tools and spare parts are minimized. While WestJet’s orders from May 2002 to January 2006 will total a sizable 38 aircraft, Ryanair has placed the largest single order for next-generation 737s. The Dublin-based airline has ordered 100 B-737-800s over the next eight years, with options to buy another 50, writes Hanser. Boeing’s communications direc-

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What You Think, • Canadian ownership is a lesser consideration when choosing an airline and in practical terms, although 44% say it is an important factor when choosing an airline. Evaluation of the Airline Industry • Only 15% of Canadians feel that the airline industry in Canada is working well. • In 1999, twice as many (31%) said that the airline industry was working well. • Canadians cite security (unaided) most often as a positive feature of the Canadian airline industry, although an equal proportion say,

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unaided, that security is a problem. • Other problems with the airline industry that Canadians mention, unaided, are: – Air Canada’s near monopoly / decline in competition (38%) – Higher fares / surcharges (35%) – Poor flight schedules (17%) • Security issues are mentioned most often, unaided, as the most important change in the airline industry in Canada in the past year. What Canadians Want • Overall, Canadians want safety and affordable airfares. • They are not happy with the indus-

try as it exists today, and they want to see it fixed. • Moreover, they prefer a Canadianbased solution to perceived problems, if a workable one can be found. • Canadians are willing to accept more foreign-based airlines in Canada, but not under any conditions: – 84% would accept both Canadian and U.S. American airlines to be able to fly all over North America. – 71% would accept U.S.-based airlines in Canada without reciprocity if it means lower fares for passengers. – 44% would accept U.S.-based airlines in Canada without reciprocity if it means lower fares for passenger, but also less service to remote areas in Canada.

New Face to Canadian Corporate Travel AirSprint Offers Aircraft Ownership at Reduced Cost

The Citation Excel features typical cruise speeds of 400-430 knots (460-495 mph). Speeds in this range provide travel times near those of small-sized swept-wing aircraft. The Excel features the largest and most spacious cabin in its class. s the airline industry forges ahead with reduced service, cost saving measures in an increasingly competitive aviation industry, how better to gain comfort, control and increased use of valued travel time than to travel in your own aircraft. AirSprint, head officed in Calgary, now offers this option for Canadian business travellers—fractional aircraft ownership. Fractional ownership of aircraft has long been the investment of choice for companies and individuals in the U.S. and across Europe, but it is still in its infancy in Canada. With AirSprint, companies or individuals own a fraction of an aircraft and receive a turnkey flight department—management and pilot services associated with the aircraft’s operation. AirSprint enables the client to purchase the fraction of an aircraft that specifically meets their aircraft needs. Minimal initial interest is 1/8, which corresponds to 100 occupied flight hours per year.

– 81% prefer encouraging small Canadian airlines to compete over encouraging foreign-based airlines to expand in Canada (16%). – Even if free competition means the end of all major Canadianowned airlines, 55% say this is preferable to having a Canadianowned airline that is a monopoly. However, 40% say it is preferable to have the Canadian-owned airline, even if it is a monopoly. Attitudes about Job Federal Government is Doing • Canadians are divided in their evaluation of the job the federal government has done in overseeing the restructuring of the airline industry in Canada. Seven in 10 say it has done a very good, good, or fair job. – 28% say it has done a “very good” or “good” job. – 42% say it has done a “fair” job. – 25% say it has done a “poor” job. . Frequent Flyers Have Distinct—And More Negative—Opinions • While 17% of non-flyers say that the airline industry in Canada is not working well and needs major changes, 49% of frequent flyers (4+ trips in the past year) say it’s not

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working well. • While non-flyers say security is the biggest change in the airline industry in Canada in the past year, frequent flyers focus more on competition-related issues. • Frequent flyers are much less likely than non-flyers to say Canadianownership is a factor when choosing an airline (29% vs. 50%). Regional Differences • About half as many Quebecers as other Canadians travelled by air in the past year. • Quebec residents are more satisfied with the job the federal government is doing than the average Canadian (81% vs. 70%). • Canadians in remote communities care most about Canadian ownership/control. Do you have a comment? Please email your response for publication to jstewart@westerndriver.com or fax (604) 736-6750.

CHECKOUT YVR’S WEBSITE AT WWW.YVR.CA

Introduced in 1996, the unique design of the Swiss-built Pilatus PC-12 is the result of an in-depth analysis of the various missions an aircraft of this size and class must perform. The aircraft can make use of small airports with grass and gravel runways, climb to 30,000 feet, cruise in excess of 300 miles per hour, and fly, for example, from Vancouver to Palm Springs, non-stop in less than four hours. Unlike charter operators, clients only pay for the hours they occupy the aircraft and do not pay for positioning or holding charges. The economics are compelling. “The service is seamless” says AirSprint president and CEO, Judson Macor, “when you call for an aircraft, no matter if it’s based in your city or not, it will be there when you ask for it, and there is no charge for positioning.” In a few short years AirSprint has grown to become a presence

across the country, having just opened their newest base at Piedmont Hawthorne Aerocentre in Richmond. Their PC-12 aircraft and newly acquired Citation Excel are exceptional aircraft and are able to accommodate even the most exacting owner, with a variance of travel requirements. For more details on AirSprint and their Fractional Ownership Program contact Jennifer Dandy jld@airsprint.com or (604) 2747205. www.airsprint.com

Are you contemplating or experiencing a divorce or relationship breakdown? Do you need experienced and insightful advice specific to your concerns? Consult with a lawyer with over 20 years trial and appeal experience, who has successfully represented many members of the aviation industry including, pilots, flight crew, ground personnel, air traffic controllers and others.

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2002 First Half Passenger and Cargo Report P reliminary numbers show that overall passenger traffic at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) was down by 8.7 per cent in the first half of 2002 compared to the same period in 2001. The greatest decline was in the charter sector (-59.9 per cent) mainly due to the bankruptcy of Canada 3000. Scheduled passenger traffic was only down by 3.7 per cent. Domestic passenger volumes were down 9.9 per cent. International traffic was down by 7.4 per cent with passengers to and from the U.S. off by 10.9 per cent. However, Asia-Pacific increased by 1.4 per cent, while passenger traffic to and from Europe was down by 10.1 per cent. YVR’s international traffic fared well compared to our West Coast competitors in the first half of 2002. For example, international passenger traffic fell by 7.7 per cent at Seattle-Tacoma International

ANNOUNCEMENT

Dr. Rainer R. Schwab Airport, by 48.2 per cent at Portland Int’l Airport and by 9.3 per cent at San Francisco Int’l Airport and down by 15.7 per cent at Los Angeles Int’l Airport. YVR only experienced a one per cent drop in the number of overseas flights in the first half of 2002 compared to an 11 per cent reduction at San Francisco International Airport

and a 21 per cent reduction at Seattle. Cargo Cargo performance has been solid, with volumes through June 2002 only down by –0.5 per cent over the same period in 2001. When the increasing volumes of freight moving by truck to and from YVR are factored in, cargo volumes are up over last year.

MTU Maintenance Appoints New CEO at Canadian Facility TU Maintenance Canada, one of the largest independent maintenance and repair operations for jet turbine engines in North America, has recently appointed Dr. Rainer R. Schwab to the position of CEO. In his 15 years with MTU, Dr. Schwab, a mechanical engineer, held various leadership positions that provided him with the business and technical skills necessary to successfully manage a world class MRO shop. No stranger to Canada, Schwab is married to a Canadian and completed his Ph.D. Dissertation in Mechanical Engineering at Queen’s University, Ontario, in 1986. “I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to lead MTU Maintenance Canada into its next growth phase. MTU Maintenance Canada is a great company with valuable customers and a team of very talented people. I view this role as an enormous opportunity to significantly improve the Company’s overall level of customer satisfaction and build a strong world class team that is proud to be a part of MTU Maintenance Canada.” Since its inception in 1998, MTU Maintenance Canada has provided engine repair and overhaul services for the Pratt & Whitney, General Electric and CFMI engine families, as well as a full range of engine accessories. A DaimlerChrysler company, MTU is part of the global MTU MRO group of companies.

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American Airlines Unveils Dramatic New Business Plan

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PRESIDENT’S CORNER By LARRY BERG, President and Chief Executive Officer

It’s Time To Liberalize Canada’s International Air Policy ancouver International Airport’s strategic location gives us a significant competitive advantage as the ideal gateway connecting the Asia-Pacific region, the United States, Europe and Latin America. Last year, YVR was the second largest international passenger gateway on the West Coast of North America. Despite our success, YVR’s full potential is yet to be realized. The major impediment is Canada’s international air policy. Air policy in Canada has focused on air carriers rather than the communities, people and businesses that need access to U.S. and international destinations. Prior to the 1995 Canada-U.S. agreement, scheduled non-stop routes out of YVR to the U.S. totalled seven. We now have direct service to 25 U.S. destinations. Since the agreement, we have seen a 60 per cent growth in passengers travelling between the two countries. It has supported the flourishing cruise ship industry, B.C. as a tourist destination and fostered economic development for the entire province. It has opened up opportunities for the air carriers, enabling them to decide where and how often to operate a route. While the agreement has been successful in developing Canada-U.S. traffic, the time has come to take another step forward. We would like to see a more liberal policy, an “open skies” model similar to that in the United States. By the U.S. definition, the 1995 Canada-U.S. air treaty is not an open skies agreement. What’s missing is Fifth Freedom Rights that would allow a foreign carrier to land in Vancouver and pick up or drop off local passengers and cargo on service to a third country. We have only three fifth freedoms beyond YVR, notably none with U.S. airlines. Given Vancouver’s geographic advantage, U.S. and

Photo: Jim Jorgenson

V An American Airlines 757 at Vancouver International Airport. merican Airlines executives acknowledged recently that their world has changed, and the world’s largest airline must also change to survive. After months of struggling with low-cost competitors and dwindling business travel, the airline retrenched and unveiled a dramatic plan that could substantially alter the business model that traditional carriers have followed for two decades. American said it will streamline its schedule at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, reduce flights by nine per cent, retire 83 airplanes and cut 7,000 jobs before March, with more job cuts likely in the future. American, which is based in Fort Worth, did not specify where it would cut jobs. Executives said they believe that the moves will help transform the organization from an airline focused on snaring every last passenger to a leaner carrier that’s willing to leave some travellers behind in the quest to make money. “The world is a different place right now, and the economic recovery we were hoping for hasn’t happened,” said Tim Doke, American’s vice president of communications. “This is a fundamental change in the way we do our business.” Don Carty, American’s chairman and chief executive, said the plan has been in the works for some time. “We grasped the need for fundamental change in the airline industry some time ago,” he said in a written statement. American is leading the way in the U.S. by shaking up an industry mired in a serious slump, airline analyst Susan Donofrio, of Deutsche Bank Securities in New York, said. The airline is “the first in the U.S. to take a step to dramatically change their business plan in response to changing consumer behaviour,” she said. The changes will have a far-ranging effect on a wide number of groups. Employees face additional layoffs, travellers will lose some flex-

ibility and convenience at airports, competitors will be forced to respond with their own cost-control plans and investors will win or lose money, depending on the strategy’s success. But American simply couldn’t afford to sit still. The airline has lost nearly US$3 billion during the past 18 months as it struggled with the sharp decline in business travel and the intense fare war waged by lowcost competitors such as Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways. Some industry experts said the call to cut costs is long overdue. “This wasn’t exactly a stroke of genius,” said airline consultant Stuart Klaskin of Klaskin, Kushner & Co. in Coral Gables, Fla. “But it is a real demonstration of fortitude and political will to start doing what needs to be done. It’s a demonstration of real leadership.” At least one major competitor quickly took a similar step. United Airlines said last month that it will also trim its fall schedule nine per cent. American officials said the new steps wouldn’t cure all of the company’s ills. “I don’t mean to sit here and suggest that the things we announced…. are going to fix our profitability problem,” said Jeffrey Campbell, American’s senior V.P. finance, in a conference call with analysts. “We’ve got a long road to take.” Despite its losses, American is in a much stronger financial position than many competitors. While US Airways and Vanguard have fallen into bankruptcy court in recent weeks, American has US$2.6 billion in cash, and up to US$6 billion in assets— largely aircraft—that can be used to secure loans. “This gives us the flexibility and time we need to do the changes required to restore profitability,” Campbell said. “We’re going to take this all in during the winter, watch what the industry does and see where demand goes,” he added.

Asian carriers should be serving both markets through YVR. For example, a return flight between Taipei and Boston would save fours hours by using YVR as its gateway rather than San Francisco. The Canadian Airports Council, of which I am Chair, is urging Ottawa to move now to grant open skies access for passengers and cargo. We believe a fair proposal would be to grant open access to carriers from countries where we have yet to negotiate an open skies agreement. Such access would remain as long as Canadian carriers had reciprocal rights in those carriers’ home countries. We also believe that Ottawa should pursue “right of establishment”—the right for a foreign company to establish a Canadian subsidiary to provide service between domestic points. Airports are not alone in advocating a more liberalized air policy. Robert Milton, Air Canada’s president and CEO, has put forward an “Open Skies Plus” proposal. In a speech to the Vancouver Board of Trade earlier this summer, Don Carty, the chairman and CEO of American Airlines, said that the two countries should explore a more liberalized air policy. He added that while U.S. air carriers in the past might have balked at such a proposal, he believed most would now agree that commercial aviation should be fully liberalized between Canada and the U.S. We support both of these initiatives. Clearly there is a growing consensus among industry leaders that we need to at least move forward on discussions to further liberalize air travel between the two countries. There is much to gain if we act now, but equally much to lose if we don’t seize the opportunity.

YVR Welcomes Your

Comments on any Airport or Aviation Topic All letters must include your name, address and phone number for confirmation. Please send to: The Editor:

YVR SKYTALK

2nd Floor – 1965 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6S 1Z3 Tel: (604) 736-6755 Fax: (604) 736-6750 E-MAIL: pstewart@westerndriver.com

Your Airport Community Newspaper SEPTEMBER 2002 ISSUE • VOL. 9 • NO. 11 YVR SKYTALK, the official newspaper of the Vancouver International Airport, is published monthly by Westco Marketing Ltd. for the more than 26,000 people who make up the airport community at YVR. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. Publisher: Associate Publisher: Editorial Liaison: Editorial Board:

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Aggie Stevens, John Korenic, Chris D’Silva Heather Madden-Johns, Ralph Eastman, Ali Hounsell, Kim Abrams, Erin Sills

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Travel TALK NEW WEB SITE FROM SPAIN Increasingly, travellers around the world are using the Internet to prepare their next trip, using it to find out information from details on a remote village to the best price of a luxury hotel. Recognizing that, the Spanish Tourist Authorities are launching a brand new Web site for Spain this fall, www.spain.info where travellers can plan their next visit to Spain with over hundreds of photographs and videos, virtual visits and maps. The new site

will be in four languages, English, Spanish, French and German, plus some contents in Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese and Italian to facilitate the more than 75 million people who visit Spain every year from around the world. The new site will include information on accommodations, destinations, ways to get there, what to do and even information about how to prepare your own personalized travel plans, where you can keep all kinds of specific information tailored to your particular visit.

FOR LEASE

The new Web site will offer one of the largest data base and audiovisual resources, with an interactive and multimedia format to facilitate planning.

NEW ADVENTURES FROM ELDERTREKS ElderTreks, the world’s first adventure travel company for travellers 50 and over has just released their 2003 catalogue. The four-colour, 56-page catalogue offers 36 adventures to over 40 destinations. New features include Ecuador, a classic route through China, and a four-country adventure through southern Africa. Among other things, ElderTreks guarantees its clients: Maximum group sizes on all land adventures limited to 16 passengers; all-inclusive land and sea programs; no mandatory single-supplement fee for those willing to share rooms; trips that have a strong cultural focus and range in activity from easy to challenging. For more information about Elder Treks, www.eldertreks.com or contact Rachel Dodds, marketing and communications specialist Rachel@eldertreks.com or 1-800741-7956, ext. 114.

CONQUEST CELEBRATES 30 YEARS HANGAR, SHOP, MAINTENANCE & OFFICES 5400 Airport Road South Strategically situated at YVR’s southside, the 110,00 sq.-feet hangar is serviced by a taxiway with ample aircraft parking to the north of the building.

Hangar specs are as follows: • 391’ wide x 112’ deep, inside height 40’. • Door opening: 32’ 6”. • Building is divided into 3 bays approximately 15,500 sq. feet each with individual door openings of 105’ x 32’ 6”. • Office space is available from 300 sq. ft. to 5,000 sq. ft. Shop and storage area is available from 500 sq. ft. to 10,000 sq. ft. Contact: Wayne Duzita: wayne@iat-yvr.com Tina Caven: tina@iat-yvr.com Tel: (604) 273-4611; Fax: (604) 273-5624 Suite 2000 – 5000 Miller Road, Richmond, BC., Canada V7B 1K6

VANCOUVER•CALGARY•EDMONTON•SASKATO ON•WI N N I PEG•LAS VEGAS •R ENO

More than 400 invited travel agents and industry-related guests turned out to celebrate Conquest Vacations 30th Anniversary on August 26, in Vancouver. The event also served as a product launch for the travel company with presentations on fall and winter sunshine destinations from Conquest’s president Robbie Goldberg and general manager Dave Taylor. During the past year, Conquest formed a partnership with Skyservice

Dave Taylor, general manager Conquest Vacations, gives a lively presentation on the company’s winter sunshine destinations to over 400 travel agents and industryrelated guests at the 30th Anniversary event held last month in the ballroom of Vancouver’s Hyatt Regency Hotel. Airlines, which operates Airbus A319, A320 and wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, and the success of this venture has resulted in steady growth, with no layoffs at Conquest despite the challenges the whole airline industry has faced. Russ Payton, president of Skyservice announced that the company would be adding five new aircraft in December for a total of nine. A new logo incorporating both Conquest and Skyservice will be introduced as part of the new livery on dedicated Conquest flights. Conquest offers both air only flights and vacation packages to destinations in Canada, the Caribbean (including Varadero, Cuba), the Bahamas, Mexico, Central America, Europe and the U.S. Check out Conquest Winter Sunshine Vacations at www.conquestVacations.com

To celebrate, Hacienda Hotel & Spa’s “Flavors of Vallarta” package offers four nights’ accommodations in a colonial-style room with private balcony for two; three-course prix fixe dinner for two at the hotel’s Los Portales restaurant; three-course prix fixe dinner for two at Murales, an intimate Mediterranean restaurant at Premiere Hotel & Spa; demonstration Mexican cooking lessons on property; and special chef tastings throughout the month. Plus, get pampered at the Hacienda’s Piedra Viva Spa with a complimentary massage. Also during the Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival, the Premiere Hotel & Spa welcomes renowned guest chef Richard Sandoval, best known for his restaurant Maya in New York and San Francisco and Tamayo in Denver, where he creates his special “Modern Mexican” cuisine with a decidedly contemporary flair. Throughout the festival, Premiere Hotel & Spa will feature a dinner menu created by Chef Sandoval.

PLAN NOW TO VISIT MEXICO Puerto Vallarta is bursting with flavour and excitement in November. The Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival, held over nine days in famous local restaurants and hotels, features cooking demonstrations and wine tastings and welcomes 20,000 people.

WINE TASTING IN SANTA BARBARA With the wine harvest just around the corner, fall is a ripe time to visit Santa Barbara wine country. On tap, 60+ world-class wineries shifting into fourth gear, crisp fall scenery, harvest parties, scenic western towns and off-season hotel rates. New this year: Margerum Wine Company, marking the continued advancement of a “garagiste” wine movement (translation: size of your shoe closet). Best bets: The 2001 Syrah~Grenache~Mourvedre blend available for tasting at Intermezzo restaurant weekends from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Info: www.margerumwinecompany.com The new Santa Rita Hills AVA is reeling kudos for its cool climate gems; Lafond Winery’s new SRH series 2000 Pinot Noir and Syrah picked up two Double Gold medals at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. Info: www.lafondwinery.com.

SEE TRAVELTALK, CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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40th Air Show A Big Success USAF Thunderbirds F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Airshow announcers (left) Bob Singleton and Roy Hefli.

Ron Price, managing director Abbotsford Air Show.

Jim Jorgenson Photos viation enthusiasts and the general public enjoyed one of the best ever Abbotsford Air Shows last month. More than 150,00 people enjoyed the perfect weather and a wide variety of aircraft at the 40th anniversary event. The highlights included the giant B-2 stealth bomber plus the F-117 stealth fighter that performed in the skies above the record crowd. All kinds of aerobatic acts plus the Canadian Forces Snowbirds were a big hit as were their U.S. counterparts, the Thunderbirds, who were making their comeback performance after almost a decade. “It was a huge success,” said Ron Price air show managing director. “Everybody I talked to was thumbs up. We were just very pleased.” Here are our photo picks of the show.

Race into Harvey’s today and try our new Chicken Fajita Pita. Sliced charbroiled chicken breast and sautéed vegetables wrapped in a warm pita. Trademark of Cara Operations Limited.

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FREE FRIES

Please present this coupon before ordering to receive a free order of fries with your purchase of our new Chicken Fajita Pita. Coupon is valid only at Harvey’s location in the Domestic Terminal Building, Arrivals Level.This coupon is not valid on delivery or with any other offer and has no cash value. Some limitations may apply.Taxes extra. Coupon expires Sept. 30, 2002. ®Reg.T.M. of Cara Operations Limited

CAF Snowbirds and CF-18 Hornet

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Abbotsford Airshow 2002 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

USAF C-141 Starlifter. USAF Thunderbirds F-16 Fighting Falcons.

USAF T1-A Jayhawk pilot trainer.

USAF Raytheon Beech T-6A Texan II.

Airport Employees… visit our new Russ Baker Way location for your Frequency McFlyer Card and enjoy a special food offer… while quantities last!

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Being Power Smart makes business sense. Larry Berg, President and CEO Vancouver International Airport Authority

As President and CEO of the Vancouver International Airport Authority, Larry Berg is used to making connections

Bud Granley’s red aerobatic YAK 55

– which is why he considers energy management part of his core business. Thanks to ongoing Power Smart initiatives, he saves close to 2 million dollars annually – which makes one of the world’s top ten airports even more competitive.

Captain Doug First-year Thunderbird team members Clements CF-18 Hornet Captain Todd Canterbury (left) and demo pilot. Captain Dave Steinheiser.

Find out how Power Smart can energize your bottom line. Call us today at 1 866 453-6400

LAPA Airlines B737-500.

(604 453 - 6400 in the Lower Mainland) or visit www.bchydro.com/business

USAF Boeing KC-10 Extender for mid-air re-fueling with a B-1B Lancer.

How YVR landed nearly $2 million in annual savings. USAF F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter.

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The Tails Tell the Tale at YVR O ver the past few years, there have been a lot of comings and goings at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), not to mention the over 300,000 aircraft movements a year. As a result of the increased flying activity, YVR has seen many new tails and some exuberant livery changes. New carriers enter the YVR market to take advantage of lucrative passenger and cargo opportunities while other carriers fade from the YVR scene as a result of mergers, domestic redeployment in their home country, restructuring, or in response to other corporate demands. Here’s a four-year tale of tails at YVR since 1999:

1999

JANUARY – Malaysia Airlines (MH) discontinues Kuala Lumpur – Taipei – Vancouver (YVR) twice-weekly Boeing B747-400 service. APRIL – Reno Air (QQ) which had operated daily MD-80 Reno – YVR was acquired by American Airlines. DECEMBER – Air Canada (AC) completes its take over of Canadian Airlines International Ltd. (CP). The CP livery was gradually changed to an AC livery with “Canadian” remaining on the fuselage. The Canadian Regional Airlines (CDR) livery change was

over a more extended period given the complications of absorbing the CP subsidiary into AC.

2000 No food on the flight? Take along a bite!

Breakfast Energize your morning with a wholesome cereal cookie (containing six essential nutrients), a fresh fruit cup, and your choice of refreshing orange $5.00 juice, milk, coffee, or tea.

#2 Lunch Power-up with a nutritious turkey or ham and cheese sandwich or tuna snack bite, a fresh fruit $7.00 cup, and a delicious granola bar. Breakfast/Lunch #3 Kids Satisfy the craving with a bowl of Lucky Charms and milk, a fresh fruit cup, and a popular Dunkaroos treat. $5.00 All prices include GST

Prior to Boarding at the Domestic Terminal Level 3 (at the Pizza Hut & Big Apple Bagels). A message from

MARCH – China Airlines takes over operation of the daily B747400 YVR-Taipei route from its subsidiary Mandarin Airlines. MARCH – Montair Aviation (UJ) commenced regular scheduled Pilatus PC-12 service from YVR’s South Terminal Building and currently operates to Masset in the Queen Charlotte Islands, plus YVR to Tofino. JULY – Qantas Airways (QF) commenced B767-300 Sydney – Honolulu – YVR service five times per week. Prior to this QF had operated as a code share flight on Canadian Airlines International Ltd. (CP) equipment. QF operations were discontinued in May 2001 however QF continues to serve YVR via a code share on Alaska Airlines (AS). August – Hawkair (BH) commenced twice-daily service from YVR’s South Terminal Building with Dash-8 equipment between YVR -Terrace and subsequently added Smithers and Prince Rupert. OCTOBER – Air Pacific, the national carrier of Fiji, commenced operating twice weekly between Fiji and Vancouver via Honolulu. The carrier was the first to operate the YVR – Honolulu sector with the next generation B737-800.

2001 FEBRUARY – Canada 3000 (CMM/2T) Canada’s largest charter carrier bought Royal Airlines Inc. (QN) a Canadian charter carrier. MARCH – Roots Air (6J), a marketing and branding alliance between Skyservice Airlines Inc. and Roots Canada the apparel manufacturer inaugurates twice daily YVR -

Toronto Airbus A-320 service which ceased after 5 weeks with the announcement of a strategic alliance with AC. APRIL Philippine Airlines (PR) inaugurates Airbus A340-400 Manila – YVR – San Francisco service three times a week making the YVR - MNL leg at 10,567 kms the longest non-stop flight segment out of YVR taking over the spot previously held by Hong Kong. JULY – Canadian Western Airlines (W2) inaugurated 8-seat Cessna 401 four times daily YVR – Nanaimo service. NOVEMBER – Canada 3000 (CMM/2T), Canada’s largest charter carrier ceased operations. NOVEMBER – Skyservice (SSV/6J), Canada’s second largest charter carrier began year-round service between YVR and Canadian, U.S. and Mexico destinations. NOVEMBER – Air Canada Tango a separately branded no frills air service of Air Canada using dedicated Airbus A-320 aircraft, commenced twice daily YVR- Toronto service. Service has since expanded to other Canadian points using B737 aircraft. DECEMBER – Trans World Airlines Inc. /TWA (TW), which operated up to twice-daily McDonnell Douglas MD-80 St. Louis – YVR service, was taken over by American Airlines (AA). The route is operated on a seasonal basis as of 2002. DECEMBER – First Air (7F) served Yellowknife – YVR with B737 for approximately three weeks.

2002 FEBRUARY – West Coast Air three times a day De Havilland Beaver

service between YVR’s South Terminal Float Plane Base and Victoria Harbour. FEBRUARY – Cargojet Canada Ltd. commenced all domestic cargo service at YVR with Boeing B727-200F freighter equipment. MARCH – Air Canada JAZZ, announced by Air Canada as the branding of its four regional airlines AirBC Ltd., Air Ontario Inc., Air Nova Inc. and Canadian Regional Airlines under a new single umbrella name and livery is a final step in the consolidation following Air Canada’s takeover of Canadian International Airlines Ltd. JAZZ utilizes a fleet of Fokker F28s, British Aerospace 146s, Bombardier CRJs, Dash 8 100/300s and Beech 1900Ds. JUNE – Jetsgo (SG) inaugurated twice daily no-frills 160 seat McDonnell Douglas MD-80 to Toronto (YYZ) and beyond to other Eastern Canadian destinations. SUMMER – This summer several new tails have appeared for the first time at YVR. Aloha Airlines (AQ) announced daily B737-700 YVR-Honolulu scheduled service effective June 15. Charter carriers Edelweiss Air (EDW) operates to Zurich, and JMC Air serves London Gatwick and Manchester, with A330 equipment. Air North operates three B737 frequencies per week on the YVR – Whitehorse route. Effective September 22, YVR will see the inauguration of AC’s low fare Western Canada subsidiary carrier ZIP (3J) with eight daily Boeing B737 flights to Edmonton. WINTER More new tails will begin showing up at YVR. Mexicana Airlines (MX) will inaugurate five

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE times a week Mexico City- YVR Airbus A319 service effective December 14. A new YVR based charter carrier HMY Airways (HQ) will commence YVR Boeing B757 service to various points in Mexico, Las Vegas Nevada and Manchester U.K. The new Alberta based charter carrier Canada West Airlines has announced it will commence Boeing B757 YVR service. More details to be announced. YVR’s South Terminal In addition to those mentioned above, there have been a number of tail changes at YVR’s South Terminal Building (STB). Northern Thunderbird Ltd. (not to be mistaken with Northern Thunderbird Inc.) no longer operated to YVR as of 2000. Pacific Spirit Air, primarily a charter service, ceased operations at YVR when its routes were taken over by Tofino Air in 2000. How code share works There are a number of air carriers that do not operate ‘metal’ or aircraft to YVR but do use their airline designator or code and flight number on an operating flight i.e. code share. For example All Nippon Airways (NH) does not operate to YVR however NH does use its flight number in joint cooperation with AC on AC’s service between YVR and Japan. In effect code sharing is a tactic to enter a market by using the existing facilities and scheduled operations of other airlines under joint agreement. Other examples of code shares at YVR are Air New Zealand (NZ) on Air Canada service to Auckland via Honolulu, Alaska Airlines and Qantas and Scandinavian Air Services (SAS\SK) on Air Canada to Copenhagen.

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TRAVELTALK, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 Name branding Another tactic similar to code shares is name branding when the operating carrier operates under a derivative of the name of a much larger recognized brand carrier. For example, the smaller carrier provides a type of commuter service under a variation of the name of and in contract with the larger carrier. At YVR, for example, Skywest Airlines (OO) operates as United Express (UA) on the YVR – Seattle (SEA) route. OO has United Airlines’ (UA) marketing and facilities advantage while United Airlines (UA) can offer a commuter product without actually operating equipment. As well OO also operates YVR – Salt Lake City under the Delta Airlines (DL) designator. Charter carriers On a more infrequent and seasonal basis a wide array of charter carriers frequent Vancouver. These infrequent charter carriers include Allegro Airlines, American Trans Air (TZ), Britannia Airways Lt. (BY), Finnair (AY), Harlequin (BQ), Martinair (MP), Mexicana (MX) and the giant all cargo Antonov 124 freighter. All in all YVR has seen over 15 new tails on a regular basis since 1999. Currently YVR’s Domestic and International Terminal Buildings will see 29 different airline tails on a regular basis, the South Terminal Public Seaplane Facility and Helicopter Terminal will see 12 different airline tails regularly plus there are five regular all-cargo tails which do not use terminal facilities. In total YVR currently will see 46 different airline tails on a frequent basis.

Dog Handlers Organize “Blonde or Gone” Event n September 21, a group of dog handlers from the RCMP and Municipal Police Forces will gather in Vancouver at Nat Bailey Stadium for the Canadian Police Dog Trials. The event also will be used to host the annual Police Dogs for Cancer “Blonde or Gone Headshave” Fundraiser. The fundraiser was started to show support for Belinda Jones, a female dog handler who is fighting the disease. Jones is currently undergoing chemotherapy, which has resulted in hair loss, hence the head shaving aspect of the fundraiser. Of the 118 dog teams in the RCMP only eight have female handlers. The event is supported by the

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other dog teams with female handlers, plus the two other female dog handlers in B.C., one from Delta and the other Karina Watson f r o m Abbotsford. Both male and female handlers have been challenged to participate in the Blonde or Gone event. Karina Watson, who works with the RCMP at Vancouver

SEE DOG HANDLERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

COFFEE DRIVING TOUR Worried about going on holiday and not being able to get your favourite ‘cuppa’? Then the Kona Coffee Country Driving Tour on Hawaii’s Big Island is designed for you. The tour is designed for the independent traveller while providing a look into the Kona coffee story. Visitors can tour quaint coffee shops, coffee farms, coffee mills, coffee roasters, coffee museums, a living history farm or stay at unique bedand-breakfast accommodations for a longer Kona coffee adventure. Along the way discover roasting and brewing tips for the best cup of coffee year round. Sample a variety of Estate Kona coffees, and use the coffee grading and roasting scale as a guide to select your personal favourite. Coffee aficionados can visit

during the harvest season and handpick their own coffee cherries.

The 32nd annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival runs this year from November 1-10. For more information and details visit www.konacoffeefest.com.

VALUE-PRICED RAIL TOURS FROM ROCKY MOUNTAINEER Visitors can explore Canada’s West and The Canadian Rockies during the changing seasons with Rocky Mountaineer Railtours’ Fall Savings program. Departures between October 1 and October 15 for the acclaimed two-day, all daylight rail journey onboard the Rocky Mountaineer begin at CDN$549, a savings of more than 18 per cent off regular season travel. Travellers can take advantage of Fall Savings on more than 40 different package tours including rail and drive packages, extended train journeys and sightseeing tours. For the independent traveller, the “Canadian Rockies Getaway” offers an eightnight/nine-day vacation package which showcases the diverse and breathtaking regions of B.C. and the Rockies, includes four days in Rocky Mountaineer’s RedLeaf Service and eight nights’ accommodation, including stays in luxury hotels in Jasper and Banff, Alberta. The “Canadian Rockies Getaway”

is available in October for a special fall savings rate of CDN$1,959 (per person, double occupancy)—a savings of $470 per person over the summer season price. For more information contact your local travel agent or Rocky Mountaineer Railtours at (800) 6657245 or www.rockymountaineer.com.

DISNEY’S “5 FOR 3” TICKET EXTENDED

Disney’s ever-popular Canadianexclusive “5 for 3” ticket offer provides five days of unlimited fun and adventure for the price of three over a 13-consecutive-day period to both Disney theme parks: Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure at their Anaheim Resort. Plus, the “5 for 3” Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Ticket also entitles each guest to “park hop”—visit both Disney parks on the same day. The newly expanded Disneyland Resort is a multi-day vacation destination consisting of two theme parks, three hotels and Downtown Disney— a shopping, dining and entertainment complex for the whole family. With over 85 attractions, 21 shows, three major parades, 70 restaurants and 91 shops, it takes more than a few days to see and experience it all. The “5 for 3” ticket offer is valid for arrivals until January 7, 2003. Call 1-800-477-2541 for a free Disnelyand Resort Vacation Planning Video.

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Cascade Aerospace Signs A Time To Remember 10-Year Agreement With Continental September 11 Memorial Services

ontinental Airlines, the fifth largest airline in the United States, and Cascade Aerospace of Abbotsford, have signed a 10-year agreement in which Cascade will provide heavy maintenance and modification services for Continental Airline’s Boeing 737 aircraft. The initial phase of the agreement calls for two aircraft per month to go through Cascade’s stateof-the-art aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility. “Cascade’s growing reputation for quality, on-time, on-budget delivery of reliable aircraft is translating to a growing customer group and is accelerating our growth plans,” says David Schellenberg, Cascade’s president.

“We are fortunate to attract Continental Airlines to our company and to sign a longterm contract with them. It is a direct result of the hard work and commitment to quality that is a hallmark of our people.” 200 Jobs Cascade, which has been growing steadily since it moved into its new, 250,000-square-foot facility 18 months ago, is currently engaged in an aggressive recruitment program to increase the size of the Cascade family. “We accelerated our alreadyrobust hiring plan and will continue to predominantly recruit aircraft maintenance engineers, structures technicians and avionics technicians throughout the next year,” says Schellenberg. “We expect to hire up to 200 additional people during the

next 12 months.” Schellenberg adds: “Recent changes to the provincial tax regime and regulatory environment and the provincial government’s market-oriented approach to developing specialized industry skills training programs have boosted our confidence in B. C. as a good place to grow our business.” Continental operates a fleet of 365 aircraft, of which 240 are Boeing 737s. The first aircraft, which arrived at Cascade June 20, is one of four Boeing 737-700s Next Generation (NG) aircraft belonging to Continental alliance partner and Panama-based operator, Copa Airlines. These aircraft will undergo post-delivery modifications for the installation of in-flight entertainment systems and fuel efficiencyimproving winglets. A nose-to-tail line (continuous) of heavy maintenance checks for Continental’s -300 and -500 Boeing 737 aircraft started in July.

The Airport Chapel is hosting brief Memorial Services every two hours throughout the day on September 11, beginning at 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. “Although we will not detract from the heroes at Ground Zero, as an airline community we will particularly remember the American and United flight crews,” Chaplain Layne

Daggett stated. The theme will be “A Time to Remember—A Time to Restore”. Airline/airport staff and travellers are cordially invited to attend. Phone the Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy at (604) 303-3010 for information or e-mail daggett@canada.com.

YVR CAN-AM Golf for Kids Pictured at the million-dollar 15th hole are Trevor Linden, captain of the Vancouver Canucks hockey team, Tiffany Duzita, YVRCAN-AM Golf for Kids and John McKeachie, mc of the banquet and auction function. None of the CAN-AM golfers managed a hole-inone, but they did manage to lose a total of 784 golf balls on the water-hazard-strewn Mayfair Lakes course.

hanks to the support from sponsors, bidders, golfers and volunteers, $150,000 was raised at the YVR CANAM Golf for Kids gala banquet, auction and golf tournament held August 29, at Mayfair Lakes Golf Club and the Richmond Inn. Proceeds from the event benefit Canuck Place Children’s Hospice

and other children’s charities. This year’s event was dedicated to the memory of Cliff Hooper in recognition of his volunteer work for YVR CAN-AM Golf for Kids over the years.

Dog Handlers,

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International Airport, has made the decision to take the “Gone” approach in her efforts to fundraise. “I feel that I will be able to raise more money shaving my head than going blonde,” said Watson. “By shaving my head I will be able to donate my hair to have a wig made for kids with Cancer. Kind of a win-

win situation.” The Canadian Police Dog Trials event at Nat Bailey Stadium is open to the public and is free of charge. A silent auction will also be held to raise money. For further information call 604-264-3666 or 604-6326597.

B.C. Aviation Council Coming Events October 9-11

2002 B.C. Aviation Council Conference “Moving to Solutions” • Grand Okanagan Lakeside Resort • Kelowna October 11

2002 Silver Wing Awards Dinner Grand Okanagan Lakeside Resort • Kelowna • Tickets $60 November 15

Black Tie & Blue Jeans Auction • Vancouver International Airport, International Terminal Building • Richmond For more information contact (604) 278-9330, fax: (604) 278-8210, email: bcac@telus.net

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AUTO TALK BENTLEY AND ROLLS RECALLS—AND OTHERS

Mercedes GST

ANOTHER GST—THIS ONE FROM MERCEDES Here’s a sneak peek at the new Mercedes-Benz GST—or Grand Sports Tourer —which debuted at last year’s North American International Auto Show, in Detroit. Scheduled to be built in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, by the end of 2004, the GST will, in the words of Professor Jürgen Hubbert, Board of Management Member of DaimlerChrysler AG, “advance Daimler-Benz’ product offensive, while also defining a new and promising market segment in the premium market area.” The Tuscaloosa plant also builds the M-Class SUV, and approximately US$600 million will be invested in plant expansion over the coming years to accommodate the GST.

HONDA FAVOURED BY CAR THIEVES According (ahem) to the LoJack Corporation, a Massachusetts-based manufacturer of wireless stolen-vehicle-recovery technology, the vehicle most often stolen by car thieves in North America is the Honda Accord. But that’s not all. According to the FBI in the U.S., motor vehicle theft increased 5.9 per cent in 2001, costing consumers more than $7.8 billion annually—and that’s just in the U.S. The most popular days for thieves to make off with your car, according to the FBI, are Monday, Friday and Saturday, with home driveways and work/shopping parking garages the most likely locations for removal. Here’s the top 10 of automotive theft fodder, in order of preference: • Honda Accord • Toyota Camry • Acura Integra • Nissan Maxima • Honda Civic EX • Jeep Grand Cherokee • Honda Civic SI • Ford Explorer • Toyota Corolla • Honda Civic DX

Proving once and for all that nobody’s perfect, the U.S. NHTSA reported recently that RollsRoyce and Bentley are recalling a total of 2,085 cars to replace a brake line that may retain air and lead to brake failure. Affected vehicles include the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph, Rolls-Royce Park Ward, Bentley Arnage, and Bentley Limousine models. Dealers will replace both the feed pipe and the brake fluid reservoir. In other recalls, BMW is recalling 34,860 2000 and 2001 X5 sport utility vehicles, to check and repair a brake pedal arm that could detach from a bracket. DaimlerChrysler is recalling 88,000 Sebring convertibles, model years 1996 to 1997, to replace a throttle cable assembly that may fray causing the accelerator to bind or stick. Kia is recalling 25,000 Sephias, model year 1998, to replace a potentially faulty hazard lights switch. Honda is recalling 375 Acura Integra and Honda Insight models, model year 2001, to replace the passenger airbag module. More information on current recalls can be found at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or www.tc.gc.ca.

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT Next time you’re in Europe and you feel like doing something completely wacky, how about renting a

vintage BMW car or motorcycle? That’s right: Canadians travelling through Europe can get behind the wheel—or handlebars—of a BMW classic, through BMW’s Group Mobile Tradition. The company offers a range of eight models available to rent by the day or week, including: • 1962 BMW Isetta 300 • 1964 BMW 700 LS • 1973 BMW 3.0 CSi • 1974 BMW 1802 • 1971 BMW 2000 • 1990 BMW Z1 • 1954 BMW R 25/3 9 (with optional sidecar, aber naturlich) • 1951 BMW R 51/3 BMW says the opportunity to rent BMW cars and motorcycles from the company’s historic fleet is a world first. For more info, visit www.bmwmobiletradition.de.

NEW JETTA NOW AVAILABLE IN CANADA Volkswagen Canada recently announced that its new Jetta Wagon is now available for sale for the first time in Canada. It will be equipped with a standard 2.0L, 115 horsepower four-cylinder engine, fuel-efficient

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insurance, depreciation, license & registration fees, taxes, and financing. In sharp contrast, driving this same vehicle in Edmonton cost the owner only slightly over $9,000, a difference of over $1,800 between the most and least expensive locations. Where’s Vancouver on the list? ‘Way down at seventh most expensive. Here’s Runzheimer’s ranking of selected cities from most expensive to least expensive: • Montreal, PQ • Halifax, NS • Toronto, ON • St. John’s, NF • Moncton, NB • Ottawa, ON • Vancouver, BC • Charlottetown, PE • Regina, SK • Calgary, AB • Winnipeg, MB • Edmonton, AB

control. It seats five adults and provides 70.6 cubic feet of cargo room with the seat folded. Prices range from $25,435 to $27,545.

CAR COSTS HIGHER BACK EAST You think you got it rough? Montreal, Halifax, and Toronto are the most expensive places in Canada to own and operate a typical mid-size vehicle, according to the latest analysis by Runzheimer International, a Toronto-based management consulting firm. Driving a typical mid-size car, represented by a Ford Taurus 4door sedan, in the Montreal area costs nearly $11,000 per year with Halifax and Toronto not far behind in second and third place. Expenses include operating costs: fuel, oil, tires, and maintenance; and ownership costs:

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TDI (turbo-diesel) engine, or 1.8-litre four-cylinder, turbocharged engine that pumps out 180 horsepower and 174 lbs. ft. of torque. A short list of standard equipment includes: eight-speaker cassette stereo with CD player, side airbag protection in front seats, four-disc ABS brakes, height and telescoping steering wheel, heated remote mirrors, central remote locking, power windows, power mirrors, and cruise

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Know your AIRCRAFT By Arnold Klappe

Airbus A-330

• CONSUMER • COMMERCIAL •

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Te l : 6 0 4 7 3 6 - 6 7 5 4 • F a x : 6 0 4 7 3 6 - 6 7 5 0 • E - m a i l : p s t e w a r t @ w e s t e r n d r i v e r. c o m

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Skyservice’s A330-300 (C-FBUS). eveloped in tandem with its fourengine twin, the Airbus A-330 (both the 200 and 300 models) can be seen in Vancouver flying the colours for Air Canada, Air Transat, Skyservice, and summer flights by JMC (England) and Edelweiss (Switzerland) airlines. Of the two models, the 200 version is noticeably shorter, giving up passenger/cargo capacity in order to gain longer range. However, the shorterrange 300 version is used for higher passenger capacity of over 400 people. Airbus designed the A-330 to replace the older and less fuel-efficient model of tri-jets such as the DC10 and the L1011, and to compete with Boeing’s twin jets, the 767 and 777. The A-330 offers the same passenger capacity as the tri-jets with one less engine, which results in lower operating costs and lower fuel requirements. The A-330, like its smaller Airbus brethren the A-320 family, has a fully automated cockpit system known as fly-by-wire. Each airplane has five

computers—three primary and two back-up systems—that run all the A330’s systems. Each computer comprises two units, each with different operating software. In addition all the necessary power sources for each computer is supplied separately— allowing for a high degree of redundancy and resulting in a lot of built in safety. Despite the five computer systems, if necessary, the A-330 can be flown using only its mechanical systems. The dimensions for the A-330 are 208 ft., 10 in. in length with a fuselage of 17.5 feet wide. The top of the tail is 53 feet high, and the wingspan is 197 feet. All of which adds up to a comfortable plane on the inside, and an economical operating aircraft for airlines. The flight range for A330-200 models is 12,000 kilometres and 10,400 kilometres for the A330-300. Maximum takeoff weight is 512,000 pounds. The A-330 is a very large twoengine plane and could be mistaken for a 777. To identify the A-330 look for upward raked wing tips.

New Airport Promotion Rewards Employee Performance he Merchants at Vancouver International Airport have introduced “YVR Bucks” a unique way to reward employees and allow them the freedom to explore everything YVR has to offer. YVR Bucks are treated similar to airline vouchers and come in $5 denominations. They are accepted at over 130 shops, services and dining establishments at the airport, giving recipients the freedom to explore everything YVR has to offer and select what they like best. If recipients spend less than the allotted amount of the YVR Bucks voucher no change is given. YVR Bucks are perfect for: • Rewarding employees for their hard work and accomplishments

• Boosting employee morale • Recognizing special occasions and holidays • Improving customer service • Thanking valued customers for their business and building customer loyalty • Supporting other airport concessions Through this innovative rewards program, Airport employers can offers their employees the gift of choice—from a luxury spa treatment, DVD movie rental or a bouquet of fresh flowers. The choices are endless. For more information contact Kim Abrams, YVR’s marketing and promotions coordinator at (604) 276-6007, email: Kim_Abrams@yvr.ca.

BED & BREAKFAST

CHESTNUT TREE COTTAGE

29 kms from Kamloops, 3-bdrm. 2-bath house, ? acre lot. Treed view of lake & mountains, swimming, hiking, skiing, bird watching, horseback riding, sauna. Children’s play area, BBQ, microwave, dishwasher, VCR/TV., sundeck & fireplace. Smoking/pets allowed outside. $100/night; $500/wk. Aug. & Sept. bookings available. Maximum 7 persons.

Comfortable accommodation, with special discounts for airline personnel. Five minutes from airport, in Richmond. Free Pickup to and from airport. Phone Penny or Ross (604) 273-1198

Tel: (604) 232-4652.

AVIATOR’S BED & BREAKFAST

APARTMENT FOR RENT TUGBOAT LANDING Spacious waterfront apartment, South Vancouver. 2-bdr., 2-bath, 5 appliances, secure parking. 10 mins. to YVR. One-Year Lease. $1,400/mth. (604) 323-0229.

E-mail: pshaff@intergate.bc.ca Website www.bbcanada.com/2011.html

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Closest B&B to Vancouver Airport. Free pick-up arranged. Rates: Single, $55. Tel: (604) 273-0646, Toll Free: 1-888-537-9233, Fax: (604) 278-2156 www.bbcanada.com/2483.html

JOB TRAINING

WATERFRONT CABIN Leased Land WEEKEND RETREAT OR INCOME PROPERTY Sunshine Coast location. Cedar exterior, finished in Ponderosa Pine interior w/deck & aluminum shake roof. Sleeps 6, has wood stove, electricity & gas stove. Furnished, 10 years old. Seasonal rental income exceeds costs. $48,950 o.b.o.

Airport Job Training as Check-In/Customer Service Agent At Vancouver Airport CLASSES START IN SEPT/02 Richmond School District • 604-668-6123 Burnaby School District • 604-664-8888

(604) 228-0625.

PROPERTY FOR SALE RICHMOND. Immaculate, one large bedroom with ensuite. Condo. For more info check www.welist.com/5567.html

ACCOMMODATION FOR RENT

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What’s UP airport & aviation news & events Taste...

Chunks

WORLD-WIDE AIRPORT LAUNCH FOR TASTE & CHUNKS YVR is proud to be the worldwide launch airport for the Nuance Group’s two brand-new duty-free confectionery concepts, Taste and Chunks. Developed by the Nuance team in Australia, both concepts bring a fresh and innovative approach to retailing confectionery products. Both kiosks are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and are located near Gate D53 in the International Holdroom. Taste evolved from the statement: “This is a very important jelly bean”—the importance of the jellybean for Taste being its flavour, texture, size and aroma. Taste searched the world for the nine favourite flavours and developed 10 superb confectionery products for each. These products are sophisticated, sugar-based-and-chocolate confectionery, individually packaged for snacking and gifting alike. Customers can buy an individual product box by flavour or put together a Taste ‘crate’ of their favourites. Developed by the Nuance Group with exclusive recipes from their team of globally respected food and chocolate experts, the theatrical presentation of fun fine food offers a total gourmet indulgence. Handcrafted sweets are offered by weight

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and displayed in raw but wholesome hunks, slabs and chunks. The Nuance Group imagined a slice of confectionery heaven and then re-created it. A store for grownups that offers great confectionery products just the way they want it— hence the birth of Taste & Chunks.

SHOPPING NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD Passengers may now identify all the shops, services and restaurants available at YVR in one quick glance. Three new mall-like directory boards have been installed in the following locations: International Terminal, Level 3 (Across from the International Food Court) Link, Level 3 (Beside the Children’s Play Area) Domestic Terminal, Level 3 (Along the Retail Street).

NORTHLANDS OPEN HOUSE The Airport Authority is holding a public open house regarding development on the north side of Sea Island. Interested parties are invited to attend to view conceptual plans for the Northlands area on September 25, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the East Concourse of the International Terminal Building, Level 3, under-

One of the new directory board displaying shops, services and restaurants at YVR located in the International Terminal Building Level 3 Food Court. The other two directory boards are located in the Domestic Terminal Building Level 3 Link and the Level 3 Retail Street. neath the Fairmont Hotel at the airport. Airport Authority representatives will be in attendance to discuss design issues and answer questions. For more information call (604) 303-3438.

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