2002-10_skytalk by Skytalk Newspaper

Northlands Draft Concept Plans Unveiled he East Concourse of the International Terminal Building was home to concept plans and drawings for airport north development when the Airport Authority held

a public open house in September. The area between the north runway and Sea Island Conservation Area—known as the Northlands— has been zoned for commercial development since the 1980s and the SEE NORTHLANDS, PAGE 3

Photo: Architectura

By Erin Sills

Artist’s rendition of what future development of Northlands could look like.

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

New Masset & Williams Lake Service

November 1 Fly Date for HMY Airways

from Canadian Introduces New Tour Operator Partner Western Airlines r. David Ho, chairman of

Canadian Western Airlines operates comfortable, corporate style, eight-seat, Cessna 401 twin-engine aircraft. anadian Western Airlines’ (CWA) CEO, Mohamed Doma, has announced that effective Dec. 1, 2002, CWA will expand its routes to include scheduled daily flights to Masset and Williams Lake, B.C. “Canadian Western Airlines is grateful for the community support and encouragement that has enables us to expand our service to Masset and Williams Lake,” said Doma. “This will put an end to over-priced travel costs and poor service to these communities.” Recently, CWA celebrated a milestone by carrying its 10,000th passenger. Currently, the airline provides services to the Mid-Vancouver Island

community and Tofino. Connie On, manager of corporate services pledged, “CWA will continue to provide convenient, affordable and professional daily service to meet the needs of the traveling public. Passenger comfort and safety is ensured on our well-equipped twin-engine turbine aircrafts.” CWA departs daily from Vancouver to Masset at 7:00 a.m., and to Williams Lake at 6:00 p.m. Flights return from Masset to Vancouver at 9:45 a.m., and from Williams Lake to Vancouver at 7:15 p.m. To book flights call 1-866U-FLY-CWA (1-866-8359292) or book online at www.cwair.com.

HMY Airways, which was originally introduced as MY Airways in February, announced last month that his new international airline will take off on November 1. Ho made the announcement during a reception at the Vancouver Jet Centre, where he accepted the first of two Boeing 757-200 aircraft that HMY is purchasing for its new holiday routes. The aircraft will have a 197seat configuration, including

(Right) From concept to reality – Dr. David Ho, CEO HMY Airways, holds the model Boeing 757 used to announce the launch of the airline earlier this year. In the background is the first of two Boeing 757s introduced last month at a reception held at Vancouver Jet Centre. 36 Companion Club seats that offer an upgraded level of service and more legroom. Serving western Canadians, HMY Airways will fly from Vancouver, Calgary and

“Our focus will be on growing our business through competitive pricing, excellent customer SEE HMY AIRWAYS, CONTINUED PAGE 2

Annual Emergency Response Exercises

n September 24, an aircraft crash simulation was staged on the tidal flats northwest of Sea Island. The event was part of Vancouver International Airport Authority’s annual emergency response exercises to ensure that airport staff and community emergency responders are prepared to handle an incident on Sea Island. Scenario At 0930 hrs Flight 0000N arriving from Toronto is experiencing serious problems and declares an emer-

SEE OPERATION LOW TIDE, PAGE 8

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HMY Airways, service, and a choice of sun destinations that are popular with western Canadians,” said Ho. Committed to the increasingly high standards of customer service expected by the travelling public, HMY has already hired 68 flight attendants, many with previous flying experience. In addition, 22 pilots have been hired with extensive experience operating jet aircraft internationally. By year’s end, some 135 people trained to Transport Canada standards and regulations will be working at the Vancouver-based airline. A number of new jobs will result from contracting various services. “Our management team at HMY has been extremely diligent in selecting individuals that complement our service standards with a strong work ethic, which is a vital combination for

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Vegas that included popular hotels familiar to travellers. Companion Holidays will employ about 40 people, which include 15 call-centre staff. Sales and marketing campaigns are underway in

any successful airline operation,” explained Ho. “When I travel, I’m most impressed by an airline’s people. After all, people are the most valuable resource inside any organization, particularly in the service sector.” Companion tour operator Ho said he employs the same philosophy at each of his other businesses, including his newest venture, Companion Holidays, HMY’s tour operator partner. HMY Airways chairman, Dr. David Ho, pilot and Also based in Vancouver, crew wave to guests on arrival of first aircraft. Companion Holidays started accepting bookings last month, offer- Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton. ing competitively priced holiday pack- Winter vacation brochures are being ages to Mexico, Los Angeles and Las distributed to travel agencies, and HMY flight attendants plan to visit local travel agencies as part of the launch campaign. “We’re going to work very closely with our travel agency colleagues

Some of the HMY Airways staff on hand at the reception. because of their tremendous experience as travel professionals, and their strong, firsthand knowledge of our vacation destinations,” noted Ho. “In addition, I know that we’re the first and last part of your vacation experience. Consequently, we’re committed to making sure it’s a first-rate experience from start to finish.

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“Together with our tour operator partner, HMY is committed to offering passengers a dynamic new airline product. At HMY Airways, we’re committed to building our business one flight at a time, and we’re making a long-term commitment to growth based on meeting and exceeding customer expectations. At the end of the day, our job at HMY Airways is to deliver the choice and service customers want, flight after flight.”

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Northlands,

Continued from page 1

Preload work on the UPS site at YVR Northlands area. Minister of Transport reinforced this land use in the early nineties when the north runway was approved. The development of the Northlands area is identified in the Airport Master Plan, and construction has already begun with the United Parcel Service’s (UPS) distribution centre. The public open house, attended by about 40 people, was the second this year. A number of concept plans depicted what Northlands development could look like over the next 20 years. Noise assessment “We made a commitment at our first open house to keep the commu-

nity informed on the progress of development in the Northlands area,” said Anne Murray, Airport Authority vice president of community and environmental affairs. “At this open house, we were able to show 20-year conceptual plans for the area as well as share results from a noise assessment for the area as well as an environmental review.” BKL Consultants completed a noise assessment relating to development of the Northlands. Calculated noise levels from anticipated activities within the development area were compared against the ambient noise levels in the com-

munity. One of the objectives of the proposed development will be to ensure noise does not exceed existing ambient noise levels in the community. A berm or other type of noise barrier was recommended for the area north of Ferguson Road and south of the Angus Lands to ensure future noise from vehicle traffic is minimized. Environmental review “The Airport Authority continuously works to balance the competing community demands for frequent, convenient air travel with the needs for a high quality of life with an excellent environment and little noise,” Murray said. “For this reason, we felt that it was important to study the area to ensure that when development occurs, it will happen with little or no impact on our surrounding communities.” An environmental review also was conducted for the Northlands area by independent consultants, Gartner Lee. The firm mapped existing biophysical features, identified environmental constraints on the site and identified

Active Noise Control – Cancelling Noise With Noise By Mark Cheng

n a recent Saturday evening at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), three members of the Airport Authority’s environment group and six University of British Columbia (UBC) mechanical engineering researchers, conducted measurement testing and recordings of sample noise levels of a DASH-8 engine run-up. The work was part of a project to assess the feasibility of using noise to reduce the noise from propeller aircraft engine run-ups. The technology is known as Active Noise Control (ANC). It works through sound field modification and is used to cancel or reduce the noise from a sound source by quantifying the offending noise and producing noise that is an exact opposite (in amplitude and phase). The concept behind active noise control is not new. Lord Rayleigh first conceived the idea in 1896; however, it wasn’t patented until 1936. Recent advances in modern digital computers have allowed the study and application of ANC technology to become more practical. ANC technology is now being used to control noise in enclosed spaces such as ducts, aircraft cabins, automobiles and headphones. For

The Dash 8, used in Phase two ANC noise measurement technology, is a Canadiandesigned and built twin-engine, mediumrange transport aircraft.

example, ANC-equipped headphones worn by pilots of propeller-driven aircraft reduce low-frequency background noise, allowing them to hear conversation and warning signals in noisy cockpits. However, the use of ANC technology in an outdoor environment, where the sound field is highly variable and complex, is not well studied and provides serious technical challenges. Airport Authority funding As part of the Airport Authority’s commitment to explore innovative ways to mitigate noise from airport operations, it began collaborating with UBC in 1997 on a multi-phase study to assess the feasibility of using ANC technology to further reduce noise from propeller aircraft run-ups. The Airport Authority provides partial funding support for a graduate student to work on the project, with remaining funds provided by UBC

and the National Science and Engineering Research Council. Two phases The first phase, completed in May 2000, included noise measurements on a Beech 1900 aircraft supplied by Central Mountain Air, laboratory experiments with an experimental active noise control system, developing a computer simulation model, and evaluating different system configurations. Phase two of the research, scheduled to be completed by fall 2003, is focused on: predicting outdoor sound propagation, experiments using a test ANC system, noise measurements on a Dash 8 aircraft, computer simulations and preparation of a final report. The focus on sounds generated by a propeller aircraft is due to a simpler frequency sound spectrum, which contains more constant tones that are more easily attenuated. Conversely, a jet aircraft frequency sound spectrum is very complex, has a greater bandwidth and, as yet, is not easily attenuated.

opportunities for enhancement of natural features and recreational use. As development occurs, site-specific environmental assessments will be conducted for each future lot development within the Northlands area. These assessments will be coordinated through the Airport Authority

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Environment Office as part of the existing Facility Permit Process. Northlands development will generally occur from east to west, with the area developing incrementally over the next 20 years. The exact timing and type of development will vary depending on demand.

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Helijet and Alaska Airlines To Provide Twice Daily YVR to Whistler Service

Helijet, and its code-share partner Alaska Airlines, will begin twicedaily service to Whistler from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) starting November 23. Alaska Airlines’ passengers from across the United States will connect to Helijet at YVR for the 28-minute flight. It is expected that prior to the inaugural flight, Government approval will be given to allow Horizon Airlines to join the program. The Whistler route introduction is part of a new marketing partnership announced in August that includes Alaska Airlines adding its code to Helijet’s service between YVR and

downtown Victoria, which allows Alaska Airlines’ passengers at YVR to connect directly to and from Helijet’s Victoria Harbour service. Helijet also has become a partner in Alaska Airline’s popular Mileage Plan frequent-flyer program. All Helijet flights between Vancouver, Victoria, Richmond, Seattle, Langley and Abbotsford are worth 250 Alaska Mileage Plan Miles, and until October 31, all flights taken will earn double miles. Mileage Plan Miles can be redeemed on Helijet and Alaska Airlines and any of its participating partners, such as Continental Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways

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and Hawaiian Airlines, to more than 600 destinations worldwide. “Whistler is a well known and highly sought after destination for travellers from all across the United States,” said Gregg Saretsky, Alaska Airlines’ executive vice president of marketing and planning. “It has become a great year-round getaway destination, and with our new Helijet connection at YVR, Alaska Airlines’ passengers will have the fastest, most-convenient access to the number one recreational resort in North America. The opportunity to connect Alaska and Horizon passengers through to Helijet’s other destinations also has tremendous potential. We’re really pleased with this new partnership because over the past 16 years, Helijet has developed a terrific local reputation and a real following among

business and leisure travellers across the Pacific Northwest.” “Our new Whistler service will provide passengers with connecting flights that are as seamless as any other Alaska connection,” said Rick Hill, Helijet’s vice president of marketing and commercial alliance. “We expect also, that this new service to Whistler will appeal to local Vancouver and Whistler residents, many of whom travel between the cities for business, and want to eliminate driving and be more productive.” Based in Richmond, Helijet International Inc. is North America’s largest scheduled helicopter airline. In addition to Whistler, Helijet serves commuter, charter and tour routes between Vancouver, Seattle, Victoria, Langley, Abbotsford and Richmond.

Security Awards Handed Out By Marcia Strang

our airport employees have been rewarded for their vigilance during separate security incidents recently. Contract wildlife control officers Les Adams and James Park were each commended for their actions when unauthorized people were seen in restricted areas. While on his rounds, Park saw three people on the approach light pier, a sterile part of the airport. He contacted security and remained on the scene until they arrived. Adams saw two young people inside the security fence. He contacted police and remained with the interlopers until they arrived. Ryan Vanharen of Jet Eagle Transfers was commended for stopping an unauthorized person who attempted to enter an airport-restricted area. Securiguard employee Tar Litt stopped and questioned some people who were using their Restricted Area Passes improperly. They were subsequently issued violation notices. All four men made it their business to get involved when they saw an Aviation Security Regulation being broken. For their efforts they received a reward and a letter of commendation sent to their respective company presidents. The Airport Authority began the program two years ago to recognize those who take that extra step to act on security concerns they see around them.

Les Adams

Ryan Vanharen

James Park

Tar Litt

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

Photo: Tony Clapci.

Rapid Transit Link A Perfect Candidate For Public Private Partnership

(Right to left) Larry Berg, Larry Bell, Mayor Phillip Owen and Bob Cowen

YVR Lands First Power Smart Certification he Airport Authority has been recognized as BC Hydro’s first Power Smart Certified business. “We are proud to be selected as the first Power Smart Certified organization in British Columbia,” said Larry Berg, Airport Authority president and CEO. “Our energy management programs have produced significant economic and environmental benefits for the entire airport community. We’re committed to further reducing our power consumption and our goal is to be within the top 10 per cent of airports in North America for energy efficiency.” The classification is a new initiative by BC Hydro to recognize organizations that demonstrate leadership in energy efficiency within their industry. Since 1996, the Airport Authority has accumulated over $2 million in electricity savings and has committed to an aggressive target of a further 15 per cent reduction over the next five years. “The Airport Authority has made an outstanding commitment to energy conservation and efficiency,” said Larry Bell, chair and CEO of BC Hydro. “Its leadership in this area clearly demonstrates to other large and complex institutions across the province that aggressive electricity management aligns with the values and objectives of business in British Columbia. The savings amassed by the Airport Authority are considerable— enough to power more than 10 per cent of all the households in Richmond— and BC Hydro wanted to recognize this achievement in a way that would provide value for our customers.” The Airport Authority has completed a number of large Power Smart projects over the years, including the design and retrofit of their terminal buildings with energy-efficient technology in its moving sidewalks, elevators, escalators, as well as upgrades

to baggage systems, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. In addition, the six-year-old International Terminal was designed in collaboration with BC Hydro Power Smart to incorporate energy efficient technologies. Some of the Airport Authority’s recent success in achieving electricity savings is the result of the efforts of its employee-driven Energy Reduction Committee, created three years ago to explore ways to improve energy efficiencies at the airport. “Projects identified by the committee have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars in electricity, labour and other fuels. The cross-communication among employees is key for prioritising, timing and promoting projects,” said Alison Grigg, an environmental analyst and committee chair. “We have yet to reach the full potential at YVR. Energy savings initiatives have focused on Airport Authority owned and operated facilities in the past, but we are reaching out to our tenants and business partners. We think there are some real opportunities there.” The Power Smart certification distinction will be reserved for a select group of organizations that have demonstrated leadership and continuous improvement in energy efficiency, BC Hydro said. This includes a commitment that new buildings will be 25 per cent more efficient than the Model National Energy Code for Buildings, with a target of 50 per cent. The organization must also be in the top 25 per cent of its industry in terms of overall energy efficiency, with a target of being in the top 10 per cent. Certified organizations will also be granted access to incentive funding for incremental high-profile energy management projects and for demonstration technology opportunities.

ver the past several months, the issue of transportation

Vancouver. Some people have been wrongly linking this

has become a hot topic as Greater Vancouver munici-

proposed line to Vancouver’s bid for the 2010 Olympic

palities, the Government of British Columbia and

Winter Games. While it would certainly strengthen the

TransLink wrestle with some very important challenges.

city’s bid, this line is needed regardless of whether or not

Last month, I was invited to address a Provincial Transportation and Infrastructure Congress that included some 150 attendees from federal, provincial and municipal governments, industry and first nations. The airport is an integral part of the region’s transportation and logistics gateway, and we are actively involved in developing solu-

Vancouver succeeds in getting the Olympics. Richmond and Vancouver together account for more than one-third of Greater Vancouver’s population and employment activity. Approximately 20 per cent of the region’s population and one-third of its employment are

tions to the many challenges that need to be overcome for

located along the Cambie corridor. It is the region’s busiest

Vancouver to be the gateway of choice for North America.

transportation link with more than one million trips daily.

Primary among them is urban congestion, which is

On a typical weekday, close to 300,000 vehicles and

severely constraining the mobility of people and goods in

20,000 transit riders cross the north arm of the Fraser River

the Lower Mainland. Current estimates are that this con-

via the three bridges connecting Richmond to Vancouver.

gestion is costing the region’s economy close to one billion

The airport employs some 26,000 employees and serves

dollars a year through delays and lost opportunities.

close to 15 million passengers annually. Over the coming

To address this, the Greater Vancouver Gateway Council and others are advocating a solution called the Major Commercial Transportation System, which would link the region’s key economic generators by a system of road, rail and water routes. The cost for this infrastructure is $7.4 billion spread over 20 years. All levels of government will have to contribute as will the private sector if we are to suc-

years, these numbers are only going to increase. The Airport Authority, TransLink and the provincial government have each committed to provide funding for construction of the Richmond-Airport-Vancouver line, and work is ongoing to prepare a proposal call for a private sector investor. Federal government funding will also be required if the

ceed in addressing the region’s infrastructure deficit. One of the proposed projects for a public private part-

project is to proceed. Both the Province and the Airport

nership is a rapid transit line along the Cambie Street cor-

Authority are advancing the issue in Ottawa. If Ottawa will

ridor connecting Richmond, the airport and downtown

participate financially, I am confident it will be built.

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 OCTOBER 2002 ISSUE • VOL. 9 • NO. 12 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:

Patrick Stewart Joan Stewart Ralph Eastman

Printed on Recycled Stock using vegetable based inks Please recycle this product.

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

Contributing Writers:

Arnold Klappe, Phil Melnychuk, Jim Jorgenson

Creative / Production: Photography:

James Martin

ASSOCIATION OF AIRPORT PUBLICATIONS P.O. Agreement #1676261

Jim Jorgenson

VANCOUVER OFFICE: Second Floor – 1965 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6J 1Z3 Tel (604) 736-6754 • Fax: (604) 736-6750 Email: jstewart@westerndriver.com

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The Kids Are The Winners At YVR Can-Am Golf for Kids Fundraiser

Brian Flagel (left), Canada Customs and Wayne Duzita, IAT Management are all smiles with the final tally at the YVR Can-Am Golf for Kids. o-chairs Wayne Duzita and Brian Flagel are pleased to announce that members of the airport and law enforcement communities helped raise more than $150,000 at the 11th Annual YVR Can-AM Golf for Kids fundraiser held in August. Canuck Place Children’s Hospice is the signature beneficiary of this tournament and funds also will benefit Girl Guides of Canada, CKNW Orphan’s Fund, Spinoza Bear, Gilmore School Summer Camp Program and the Richmond Firefighter’s Make-a-Wish campaign.

FOD Prevention Has Its Rewards By Drew Pankrath he Airport Authority is being recognized by aviation industry colleagues for raising awareness of the danger of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) and promoting preventive measures. It has received top honours in the ‘Best Awareness Video’ category at the National Association of FOD Prevention conference held recently in Los Angeles, beating submissions by the likes of Boeing, Lockheed Martin, the U.S. military, airports and major airlines. The 10-minute video, produced for only $2,000, is used for training by a wide variety of companies in the airport community. FOD includes a wide variety of materials such as loose gravel, hardware, and pieces of luggage. YVR is in its ninth consecutive year of operating without FOD damage to an aircraft during runway operations. It is estimated that FOD damage to aircraft costs the world aviation industry as much as $4 billion annually. Airline and ground handling employees are at the forefront for reducing and eliminating FOD at YVR. For one Globe Ground employ-

ee, eliminating FOD has become a daily work routine. Before and in between aircraft fueling, Mike Leaky inspects his work area to make sure it is free of debris. Leaky has been so proactive with collecting FOD, he was awarded Globe Ground’s “Pride Safety Award” given to safety conscious employees. “Mike’s daily haul has become a bit of a novelty to the rest of his crew,” says the Airport Authority’s Arnie Jassman, supervisor, airport operations. ”He makes it a point to show his co-workers what he has collected. Leaky’s dedication to keep the ramp safe has landed him a YVR safety Safety-conscious Mike Leaky received Globe baseball cap, part of an Ground’s “Pride Safety Award” and the prized incentive program to YVR safety baseball cap. reward staff for picking up Bunnett, Darren Jephson, Steve FOD airside. Since the program’s launch, Tremblay and Jim Boudreau of Globe awards have been presented to a num- Ground and Art Anderson of Air ber of individuals, including Brad Canada Cargo.

Photo: Drew Pankrath

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Tagging Project To Assess Sturgeon Population Recovery he Airport Authority is helping fund a sturgeon-tagging project aimed at determining whether the white sturgeon population in the Lower Fraser is on the rebound. Earlier this year, the Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society

The white sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish in North America, reaching lengths of up to six metres and weights of 620 kilograms released the findings of a two-year study that estimated about 47,000 adult and juvenile white sturgeon were living in the lower 130 kilometres of the Fraser River between Steveston and Yale. The white sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish in North America, reaching lengths of up to six metres and weights of 620 kilograms. They can live more than 150 years. In the early 1900s, sturgeon stocks in the Lower Fraser River plummeted to

near-extinction levels as a result of intensive commercial fishing. Since 1999, the volunteer-driven sturgeon tagging program has coordinated activities and in-kind contributions from true stewards of the resource: sport fishing guides, recreational, commercial, and aboriginal fishers, test fishery and enforcement personnel, and various fishery monitors. Under the program, trained volunteers tag sturgeon with a tiny electronic tag (PIT tag) that is uniquely identifiable. All sturgeon are inspected for the presence of a tag and measured prior to release. “The results of the study suggest that the number of juvenile sturgeon in the population is disproportionately high,” said Troy Nelson, the Society’s executive director and one of authors of the study. “This raises questions regarding the survivability of the stock to maturity, but also suggests the current positioning for possible stock recovery. Continued tagging and monitoring, especially of the juvenile segment of the population, will help us assess if population recovery is truly happening.” The study found that the most abundant segment of the population is likely four to 10 years old, and less than six per cent of the population is

Juvenile sturgeon is tagged with a fine, electric pit tag that is uniquely identifiable. sexually mature. Sturgeon are slow to reproduce and do not reach sexual maturity until 25 to 30 years of age. They require large rivers with intact ecosystems that can provide the required habitats and food abundance

for survival. “Sea Island is an integral part of the Lower Fraser River ecosystem, so we’re delighted to be supporting this sturgeon-tagging project,” said Anne Murray, the Airport Authority’s vice

president of community and environmental affairs. “As a communitybased organization striving for environmental excellence, we’re committed to helping support these initiatives when we can.”

Hawkair Expands Passenger Service Direct Dash 8 Flights to Dawson Creek

prices and the convenience of flights from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal. “We are a small, but rapidly growing airline, because of our attention to our customers, who are responsible for all of our success,” said Redekop. “People try us for our great fares and direct flights, and come back because of our friendly, professional service.” Regular prices start at $179 oneway (all-in) to a high of $389 for a refundable, last minute ticket. The airline’s “Quick Tickets,” priced at $2,690 for a book of 10, offer flexibility and savings for frequent flyers. Hawkair is a passenger airline operating 37-seat Dash 8s from Prince Rupert, Terrace-Kitimat, Smithers and Dawson Creek. The airline, based in Terrace, B.C., has operated as a privately owned corporation since 1995. For reservations or information call toll-free 1-800-487-1216 or www.hawkair.ca.

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awkair has expanded its passenger service to the northeast of B.C. with the addition of Dawson Creek to its schedule. Service commenced October 8 with a Tuesday and Saturday service. Daily flights will start on November 3. Hawkair’s vice president of business development David Redekop says many communities throughout B.C. and Alberta were lobbying for the airline’s services. Dawson Creek was the best fit, for a variety of reasons, including location, current service from competitors, and economic viability of Dawson Creek and surrounding communities. “Dawson Creek has been underserved for air service,” said Redekop. “We’re here to respond to the extremely strong demand for air travel in this area, with direct flights and affordable fares.” Hawkair’s popularity in central/northwest B.C. is due to serving both business and leisure passengers. The airline offers all-in, up-front

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Canadian Coast Guard Hovercraft dispatched to rescue survivors.

Operation Low Tide,

Richmond Fire Rescue Team go over details.

Continued from page 1

gency landing at YVR, ETA 30 minutes. The A340 aircraft has 240 people on board, 230 passengers and 10 crewmembers. Due to the serious nature of the emergency, standby Coast Guard engineers hook up flotation platforms to the Talon helicopter, which is at the base. The incoming aircraft is approaching from the west, and if the standby goes bad the helicopter will then be ready to quickly deploy rescue platforms to the water. At 1000 hrs, the Control Tower hits the crash alarm as they see the aircraft go down short of the airport near Iona Beach. When response agencies arrive at the scene, survivors are on the flotation platforms, but none of the aircraft fuselage is visible.

Search and Rescue Cormorant helicopter practising hoisting and recovery.

Assessing injuries.

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Key events 1 This was a very large exercise and many aspects of emergency response to the crash happened simultaneously. 2 The activation of Airport Emergency Operations Centre, providing support to the crash site, media relations and handling all aspects of terminal operations. 3 The airline (assisted by the Chaplain and Airport Authority staff) took care of the family and friends at the terminal, who The temporary morgue area.

were waiting for the flight to arrive. 4 BC Ambulance Service (BCAS) provided triage and treatment and coordinated patient transportation/care with Lower Mainland hospitals through the BC Ambulance Regional Communication Centre. 5 Canadian Coast Guard and Talon Helicopters deployed flotation platforms for survivors and rescue operations. 6 St. Paul’s, Vancouver General and Richmond hospitals prepared to receive a large number of injured. 7 The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre coordinated appropriate marine and air response. 8 Marine Emergency Broadcasts were made to vessels to assist with the crash—search and rescue, barrier searches, establishing marine site perimeters and security. 9 Canadian Military (442 Squadron Cormorant) provided size-up and search and rescue assistance. 10 Coast Guard Hovercraft rescued survivors from flotation platforms and transported them to the Iona beachhead. 11 Richmond and Vancouver Fire Rescue Service staff assisted BCAS with removing survivors from the Hovercraft to BCAS triage sites. 12 Transportation Safety Board and the Coroner reported to Command to investigate and discuss recovery of the aircraft, bodies and temporary morgue. 13 RCMP personnel were on hand to deploy land search teams for survivors, debris and evidence.

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(left) YVR’s airside safety officer, Dave Larrigan discusses operations. (above) Carrying injured survivor to the triage station for further treatment, prior to hospital transfer by ambulance. (below) Exercise organizer Margaretha Lundh discusses procedures with a military observer. (right) Taking details from the “walking survivors” at green area.

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(Left) EAL European Aviation Ltd., flying to Frankfurt, JMC Airways, part of Thomas Cook operations from Britain, Cathay Pacific, and Lufthansa on YVR apron.

Plane SPOTTING at YVR by Jim Jorgenson

(Right) Corsair B747SP landing at YVR. Corsair is a French scheduled public charter airline owned and operated by New Frontiers, a leading French tour operator.

West Coast Air Is expanding its commuter airline services between Vancouver, Victoria and throughout British Columbia. We are looking for energetic, dedicated professionals to fill the following positions.

(Left) Southern Air take-off.

Operations Manager This key management position reports to the President & CEO and will be responsible for the day-to-day safe operation of the airline. This position would be interest to individuals with a pilot or AME background and management experience in commercial air operations. Experience gained in industry and as a Transport Canada inspector would be considered an asset. A thorough knowledge of Canadian Aviation Regulations is a prerequisite. While not essential, Twin Otter and float experience is desirable.

General Manager, Victoria The General Manager is West Coast Air’s senior representative in Victoria and is responsible for maintaining a high level of customer service at this key base. This individual is responsible for all personnel, community and government relations for the airline in Victoria. Experience in a customer service management role at an airline would be considered an asset.

Air Canada’s brightly coloured Zip Air Inc. Boeing 737-200 began flights between Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg last month.

Please forward résumés by fax to Human Resources at (604) 606-6820 or by e-mail to info@westcoastair.com. Jimmy Pattison’s Challenger Jet.

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Use An Express Check-In Kiosk And Say Goodbye to Waiting In Line nce through the door on the departures level at YVR’s Domestic Terminal, 12 brushed-metal, Express Check-in kiosks greet passengers in front of the Air Canada counters. Over at the Transborder check-in lobby, Air Canada has four more kiosks for passenger use. Since their installation last summer almost 40 per cent of Air Canada’s customers, or up to 3,000 passengers per day, have used them. These selfserve, check-in kiosks allow travellers to print out a boarding pass, proceed to an express baggage drop counter and on to the departure gate with virtually no waiting. Travellers with tickets can use a kiosk to reserve their seat by simply inserting a credit card or Aeroplan card (for identification purposes only), and navigating a series of userfriendly, touch-sensitive screens,

which then prints out a bar-coded boarding pass. As well, the kiosk offers a number of self-service options to customers including changing a seat selection, requesting an upgrade in class of service, and placing their name on a standby list for other flights. “The self-serve kiosks are designed to complement our existing check-in services and reduce passenger wait time at check-in during busy times,” said Bill Devlin, Air Canada’s manager of Hub Development. “For passengers with carry-on baggage only, the system is totally self serve and requires no contact with check-in staff. Passengers obtain a boarding pass from the kiosk and are on to the gate in less than one minute,” he added. Those passengers with bags to be checked, proceed with their boarding card to a dedicated, express-baggage

TRAVEL TALK Halloween Haunted Vancouver Tours

Primer for Planning A Soiree in Santa Monica

Tour Vancouver’s spookiest haunts and listen to stories of betrayal, revenge and the undead when the Vancouver Museum and The Vancouver Trolley Company present the 10th annual Haunted Vancouver Trolley Tours. A Halloween tradition since 1992, this unique take on the usual heritage tour has become of the Museum’s most anticipated events. “It’s definitely a favourite,” said Museum Ceo, Pauline Thompson, “people start to ask for it as early as August.” What they are asking for is the chance to explore the paranormal heritage of Vancouver. Those brave enough to do so, board a fully decorated trolley bus and travel through the city, listening to experienced storytellers, in character, spin spooky tales of treachery and intrigue. One such story tells of Janet Smith, a young nursemaid found shot to death just two months after her arrival from Scotland in 1924. Her murderer was never found and she is said to haunt the University Women’s Club. Haunted Vancouver Trolley Tours depart nightly from the Vancouver Museum, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. from October 18 until November 2. Tickets are $20 and can be reserved by calling (604) 861-6508.

Hot of the presses, the Santa Monica Official Visitors Guide 2002/2003 is the perfect primer for vacationers planning a soiree in California’s southland. Produced by the Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau, the four-colour, 94-page guide provides a comprehensive look at Santa Monica’s top selling points: alfresco shopping, dining, sightseeing, entertainment and accommodations. The “Beach” and “Shopping” sections unleash a variety of activities for the intrepid tourist, from catching an impromptu volleyball game to browsing for bargains. The publication is free for the asking by logging onto the Bureau’s Web site at www.santamonica.com or call (800) 544-5391.

Arizona’s LongestRunning Nature Show If you plan on visiting Phoenix, Arizona during the autumn, be sure to board the Verde Canyon Railroad to enjoy the spectacular views that Mother Nature has to offer. The Verde Canyon provides a splashy show of colours; brilliant orange, magenta, crimson and gold SEE TRAVEL TALK, CONTINUED PAGE 15

counter, receive their baggage tag and deposit their bags on the luggage belt—all in a speedy fashion. “Once passengers realise how much faster and easier the system is they don’t want to go back to waiting in line,” states Devlin. Air Canada’s research indicates that passengers enjoy the independence of obtaining their boarding pass and placing personal baggage on the luggage belt, which the self-service system allows. With 50 per cent of passengers estimated to be using the system by year-end, the new kiosks are a big success, with the added benefit of relieving the regular check-in system and reducing wait time for those passengers. “Our Vancouver Express Check-in

(left to right) Kevin Molloy, vice president Information Technology YVRAA; Bill Devlin, Air Canada’s manager of Hub Development; Don Ehreholz, director engineering projects, YVRAA; John Ring, Air Canada general manager of B.C.; Dominic Fiore, consultant for YVRAA. zones offer a quick and easy alternative to traditional service at airports and we are pleased with the positive customer feedback and the growing number of customers who are choosing the self-service option,” says John Ring, Air Canada’s general manager of B.C. “The Vancouver Airport

Save On Travel ust like the big-box discount retailers the aviation industry has its very own industry travel company. It’s called Interlining Plus. Owned by T.I.C. Tourism Infocentres Ltd and based in Vancouver, Interlining Plus has been looking after the aviation industry’s travel needs for 14 years. Who qualifies? Interlining Plus rates apply to any active or retired IATA/ARC-appointed airline employee (six months minimum), the employee’s spouse, children and parents. In addition, travelling companions of airline employees and staff of companies working with

Authority has been a tremendous partner in this venture and we are very happy with the early results of this collaboration.” Next time you are flying Air Canada from YVR use an express check-in kiosk and say goodbye to waiting in line.

With Interlining Plus

the airline industry are eligible for Interlining’s discounted rates. Variety of products With such a large customer base, Interlining Plus is able to negotiate discounted rates with travel operators such as cruise lines, all-inclusive resorts, accommodations, train, land and motorcoach tours, specialty destination packages, family vacations, and even cancellation insurance. Points program Interlining Plus offers an exclusive points program through Visa and MasterCard credit cards, where Iit members can accumulate points for redemption towards travel. In fact,

many of their customers have been able to purchase their entire vacation by redeeming their credit card points. Interlining Plus is affiliated with the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA), IATA and registered with the B.C. Registrar of Travel. If you work in the airline industry, a related company, or are a relative of someone who does, you will most likely qualify for industry rates on Interlining Plus travel deals. Check out their Web site www.interlining.ca or call 604 606 1700, toll-free at 1-800-665-3100 ext. 1317.

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YVR PEOPLE by Jim Jorgenson

Annual CARA Golf Tournament

ast month, 137 golfers took part in the 24th annual CARA golf tournament and dinner, held at Mayfair Lakes in Richmond. The auction and dinner raised $5,560, which was topped-up by $10,000 from Ken Otto at CARA’s head office. Proceeds will go to the Vancouver Children’s Hospital. Awards were presented to Brian Flagel for his work on the Can-Am golf tournament and the CARA Air Terminal Food Services team, which beat the Flight Kitchen’s team. Congratulations to CARA’s Damon Wong for organizing another successful fundraising tournament.

L A Day of Caring everal Airport Authority employees spent the better part of a recent Saturday giving Delta’s Hillside Boys and Girls Club a much-needed facelift, including painting over graffiti on the exterior walls, painting lines on an outdoor basketball court, gardening and grounds-keeping work. This project is one of many throughout the Lower Mainland that is coordinated through the United Way’s “Day of Caring“ initiative.

(top photo) Damon Wong (left) presenting the CARA Trophy to Brian Flagel of Canada Customs. (bottom photo) CARA Air Terminal Food Services and Flight Kitchen teams.

Piedmont Hawthorne BBQ eld early last month on a windy Friday, the Piedmont Hawthorne BBQ celebrated the end of summer and raised funds for Children’s Hospital. A “dunk Scott” tank and a leather jacket raffle brought in $400. The Richmond Inn provided food.

Scott Harrold allows himself to be dunked to raise funds for Children’s Hospital.

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(left to right) Bee Tully, Wayne Coffin, Lina Pomponic, Judith Fograscher, Joel Edwards, Amaya Agarrabeitia and William McGhie. ir Canada chalet staff, along with Joel Edwards, last year’s winner of the CPGA Championship event, give a ‘thumbs-up’ to the event. Sept. 1, 2002, marked the end of seven years of sponsorship by Air

Canada for the event held at Northlands golf course. Coincidentally, it also marked the 65th anniversary of Air Canada’s first passenger flight in 1937 from Vancouver to Seattle.

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PWA Reunion A Family Affair

Upcoming BCAC Events October 9-11

2002 BCAC CONFERENCE “Moving to Solutions” Grand Okanagan Lakeside Resort, Kelowna October 11

2002 SILVER WING AWARDS DINNER Grand Okanagan Lakeside Resort, Kelowna Tickets, $60

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November 15

BLACK TIE & BLUE JEANS AUCTION Vancouver International Airport, ITB east concourse, Richmond Tickets, $20, or $200 for a reserved table of 10. Ticket price includes free parking, food and beverage sampling, an opportunity to bid on hundreds of items in live and silent auctions. Additionally, raffle tickets featuring many valuable prizes will be available for purchase. The Fairmont and Delta Airport Hotels will have a special room rate for the night of the auction. The BCAC is still accepting donations of aviationrelated prizes and auction items. Contact them at (604) 278-9330 for tickets, and more information.

Fifteen years of uniforms from Pacific Western Airlines as modelled by some former employees.

By Heather Madden-Johns In the end, it was all about family. Not in the traditional sense, but embodied in the spirit of a company that once thrived in Western Canada. Pacific Western Airlines ceased to exist some 15 years ago, but that family spirit has endured; so much so that nearly 1,300 people got together in a Calgary convention centre for a weekend reunion in August. Former employees from as far away as Dubai, London, and Santiago joined those still in Canada just to be together, share old stories and catch up with others. Although some had left the airline industry, many were working for other airlines or involved

in some other aspect of the travel industry. Addressing the reunion, former presidents Don Watson and Rhys Eyton underscored the spirit of fun and hard work that characterized the airline. Former employees of PWA might be accused of being “pack rats” as well as party animals. There were pilot, flight attendant and customer service uniforms from decades ago adorning the convention centre wall or being worn proudly. Adding to the nostalgia were several other items on display from the past, such as playing cards, coasters, golf paraphernalia, employee newsletters and even offiSEE PWA REUNION, CONTINUED PAGE 14

Preferred Supplier Trade Show at VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Thursday, November 7, 2002 8:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m East Concourse, Level 3, International Terminal Building 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC

TE ORPORA RAA’S C U BY YV RVICES YO TO T SE H T BROUG REMEN PROCU

iss It. M t ’ n Do

t nd mee e come a v ited to pliers that ha in v in re and You a ferred sup re petitive those P eep YVR com s worldwide. k rt o d p e ir fa help front o the fore

More than 20 exhibitors will be on-hand displaying a variety of goods and services. PLAN TO ATTEND NOW and find out how well these goods and services could fit your operation and perhaps reduce your costs. Free parking is provided, courtesy of YVR Parking & Ground Transportation.

ITB east concourse plays host to annual BCAC fundraising dinner auction.

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AUTO TALK As If Cell Phones Weren’t Enough It had to happen. Realizing that cup-holders don’t have to be beverage-only containers, 7-Eleven stores and several leading food manufacturers are developing snack foods that come in disposable cups, for those people who simply must eat junk food while driving. “A large percentage of all foods bought in 7-Eleven stores are consumed on the go, often within 30 minutes, and usually in the car,” said Steve Keane, 7-Eleven, Inc. product director for packaged foods. “We know a large number of our customers turn to us for quick, on-the-go snacking options that are packaged for hand-held eating.” First take-out grub to hit 7-Eleven’s shelves will be snackbite-size versions of Ritz Bits Sandwiches, Kraft Cheese Nips crackers, Mini Oreos, and Nutter Butter, followed by Campbell’s Soup and Kellogg’s cereal. Watch out for Ribs-In-A-Cup.

SUVs, Here To Stay Despite mounting evidence of their environmental unfriendliness, a recent study has shown that people love their sport utes more than ever. According to a new analysis by R. L. Polk & Co., new vehicle registrations and projections through the remainder of the 2002 calendar year showed that the sport utility segment commanded about 27 per cent of new personal retail registrations in the U.S.— the largest share of any passenger

PWA Reunion,

VW Touareg vehicle category. “The SUV remains king of the American road,” said Lonnie Miller, director of Polk’s Analytical Solutions team. “ Why do they continue to be so popular? Here are the top three reasons people purchase an SUV: lifestyle considerations (27.3 per cent); safety issues (24.0 per cent); value for the money (13.7 per cent). There are now 80 different SUV models being offered on today’s market.

VW Touareg Debuts In Paris Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder, Volkswagen AG’s CEO, and Professor Wilfried Bockelmann, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for the Technical Development Division,

unveiled the new Touareg luxury offroad vehicle at the Paris Motor Show recently. Said Pischetsrieder: “The Touareg gives Volkswagen access to a new high-growth segment.” Due to be introduced in Germany this fall, the Touareg will initially be offered with a 220 horsepower V6 gas engine or a V10 TDI diesel developing 313 horsepower. All Touaregs will have VWs 4MOTION permanent allwheel drive and a six-speed gearbox. According to Volkswagen bumf, the Touareg combines the characteristics of a high-class off-road vehicle with the comfort and convenience of a large luxury sedan and the dynamic attributes of a sports car. All they have to do now is work on the spelling.

Elephant and Castle Celebrates by

Rockin’ on the River

Continued from page 13

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cial signage. A special feature was a collection of models of PWA aircraft from Hercules to 767s represented in all the different liveries. While much of the memorabilia had been treasured in private homes, the majority of these items have now been donated to the Edmonton and Calgary Aerospace museums for all to enjoy. It was a magical weekend of laughter, tears, and memories of wonderful times. It may not ever be repeated—but it was certainly savoured. For more information on the Pacific Western Airlines and its former employees, visit the official reunion site at www. pwareunion.com. There are hundreds of pictures already posted, along with a history of the little airline that could.

he Elephant and Castle at the Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel celebrated its first year of operation on September 26, by hosting a “Rockin’ on the River” party. Invited YVR and Sea Island guests were treated to eats, treats and a number of draws, ranging from brunch at the facility to overnight stays at a number of Delta Hotel properties. The popular waterfront restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and also caters to private parties. For more information call (604) 276-1962.

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Travel Talk,

Continued from page 11

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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 seem to fall from the sky as leaves turn, shimmer, and gently drift to earth along the crystal blue-green waters of the Verde River. A look at the canyon walls and passengers will see the many natural rock formations that have stood the test of time and stand guard over the indigenous flora and fauna below. The Verde Canyon Railroad is the only way to partake of these natural wonders and the beauty of the Arizona scenery that is found along its rails. For more information on Fall Colour Tour in the Verde Canyon and to reserve your passage, call 1-800-293-7245 or visit the Railroad’s Web site at www. verdecanyonrr.com.

Aloha Offers Introductory Fare to Rarotonga In celebration of its inaugural flights to the Cook Islands in the heart of the South Pacific, Aloha Airlines is offering a low-season fare of $1,600 between Vancouver and Rarotonga, from December 9 through Dec. 19, 2002. From December 20, through March 30, 2003, the high season for travel to Rarotonga, the lowest available round-trip fare from Vancouver will be $2,200. These fares do not include taxes or fees. Aloha Airlines will begin nonstop service between Honolulu and the pristine Polynesian island of Rarotonga on Dec. 9, 2002, aboard next-generation Boeing 737-700 aircraft. Passengers from Canada will board their flight to Rarotonga in Honolulu. Aloha Flight 321 will depart Honolulu on Mondays and Fridays at 9:00 a.m., arriving in Rarotonga at 3:18 p.m. The return flight, 322, will depart Rarotonga on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., arriving in Honolulu at 5:15 p.m. The new scheduled air service between Hawaii and the Cook Islands will operate twice a week until March 30, 2003. The service will operate once a week during the low season, beginning March 31, 2003. For more information, visit Aloha’s Web site at www.alohaairlines.com.

Cancun to host Triathlon Championships The World Triathlon Championships, to be held during November in Cancun, is expected to attract some 7,000 visitors and earn Mexico between nine and 10 million US dollars, according to Tourism Minister Leticia Navarro. The Tourism Ministry is sponsoring the event. “Underwriting competitions of this sort are a new element for us as we move to diversify our sources of income in the hospitality industry,” the minister said in announcing the event. In addition to attracting visitors, the Triathlon will publicize the attractions found along the Mexican Caribbean. This is the second time the Triathlon Championships have been held in Cancun. The first, in 1995, brought an estimated US$6 million into Mexico. For more information call 1800-44-MEXICO or visit www.visitmexico.com

Maya Village Best Mexican Eco-Tourism Destination PacChen, a Maya village in Quintana Roo, has received the first-place award as the best ecotourism destination in Mexico. Two federal agencies sponsored the competition to decide what was the best ecotourism destination in Mexico; PacChen won over 25 other entries. About 100 people, members of 25 families, live in the village where Maya life has changed only slightly since the Spaniards first touched the nearby shores almost 500 years ago. As a result of tourism, the hamlet now has its own school, which is attended by children from neighbouring communities. It also has its own communal taxi, quite important, since no public transportation is available. Three years ago, a tour operator in Playa del Carmen arranged with the community to bring in visitors to see how the Maya live these days. For more information visit www.visitmexico.com.

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