YOUR AIRPORT & SEA ISLAND COMMUNITY CONNECTION
SKYTALKONLINE.COM DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021
Drive-through COVID-19 testing site located at jetSet YVR Parking
Events:
Festive Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Vancouver Airport PG 3 Airlines
WestJet adds sun destinations PG
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Scholarships
A drive-through COVID19 assessment testing site has been opened at jetSet YVR Parking, 5911 North Service Road at the intersection of Aviation Avenue and North Service Road. Vancouver Airport Authority worked with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) to turn the jetSet YVR Parking lot, which was closed at the onset of the pandemic, into this public testing collection centre. This drive-through facility is available to Richmond residents as well as British Columbians exhibiting symptoms related to COVID-19. The centre is open daily from 8am to 7pm and is a drive-through facility only, with patients seen on a firstcome, first served basis. No
The jetSet YVR Parking lot on North Service Road, which was closed at the onset of the pandemic, is now being used as a drivethrough COVID-19 testing facility.
referral or appointment is needed, and testing is not recommended for people without symptoms. Coronavirus testing for travel clearance or employment is not available at this site.
For more information on this COVID-19 testing location, visit vch.ca. Within the context of testing for travel through Vancouver International Airport (YVR), it is important to note that the VCH testing
site at jetSet YVR Parking is unrelated to YVR and the rapid testing pilot study that is being conducted in conjunction with WestJet (see story below). Private testing for travel and work purposes is continuing at YVR and the Airport
Authority advises airline passengers to be aware of any testing-related travel requirements before getting to the airport. For information about the various testing activities underway at YVR, please visit yvr.ca/covid19testing.
FIRST IN CANADA: YVR Art Foundation call for applications PG
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Tribute:
‘Queen of the Skies’ saved PG
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Airlines:
Air Canada, Transat buyout going ahead PG
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WestJet-YVR COVID-19 Testing Study for departing passengers On November 27, 2020, Canadian airline WestJet and Vancouver International Airport (YVR), together with the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Providence Health Care, launched the WestJet-YVR COVID-19 Testing Study. This is the first study of its kind in Canada to investigate a method of COVID-19 rapid antigen testing to help provide the safest and most efficient way of testing departing passengers at YVR. The study is located at WestJet’s domestic check-in area and includes three simple steps: registration and informed consent, testing, and results. Researchers from UBC and Providence are responsible for collecting samples in a ready-made testing station.
A positive rapid test result does not constitute a medical diagnosis for COVID-19 and participants who test positive will be required to undergo Health Canada-approved testing using the RT-PCR diagnostic test, which is highly specific for the presence of the virus. For those guests with a positive test result, WestJet will rebook or cancel flights at no charge. Participants who test negative will continue their travel journey and will still be required to follow all existing COVID-19 requirements. This study is voluntary and open to WestJet guests on their day of travel. Interested in volunteering? To be eligible for the study, you must be:
The WestJet-YVR COVID-19 Testing Study at YVR will be operated Monday to Friday during morning hours.
• Between the ages of 19 and 80 • A resident of British Columbia • Ticketed for a domestic departing flight • Have a minimum of 75 minutes to participate • Provide written, informed consent
Travellers who have tested positive for COVID-19 within 90 days prior to travel are not eligible to participate in the study. Upon study completion, the researchers will submit the results for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The results will then be shared
Is your work environment sanitized against COVID-19? Call us for a quote: 778-954-7349
with public health officials to contribute to a future testing framework for the aviation industry. For more information on the study, visit westjet.com/ covidtesting. To register for an appointment to participate in the study, visit testingyvr.ca.
CLEANING WITH LOVE
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YVR and Quest Food Exchange team up for 10th annual Holiday Hamper Drive
In 2019, YVR and Quest Food Exchange collected a record 1,289 food hampers for families in need.
Every year, YVR works alongside Quest Food Exchange and the entire Sea Island community to collect food hampers
for families in the community. Since the Hamper Drive began in 2011, more than 8,000 hampers have been donated to Quest, an
organization that works to reduce hunger in local communities. This year, the holidays will be extra difficult for some, which
is why it is more important than ever that the community comes together to provide meals for as many families as possible.
South Terminal Shuttle service resumed at YVR Connecting between the Main Terminal and the South Terminal? The complimentary South Terminal shuttle service has resumed operations. This service runs every 30 minutes between the International Terminal, Domestic Terminal, South Terminal, and the Floatplane Dock. YVR’s Floatplane Dock is one of two floatplane docks on Inglis Drive near the South Terminal. There are two shuttle pickup locations at YVR’s Main Terminal: • The International Terminal will exit for pick up on Level 3 adjacent to the US transbor-
YVR’s courtesy shuttle buses provide daily service between the Main Terminal, South Terminal and Floatplane Dock every 30 minutes.
der check-in area • The Domestic Terminal, also on Level 3, with pick-up area adjacent to the Domestic check-in area
YVR will be using a hybrid fleet of buses, which are not only more sustainable but also designed with wider doors and a Lift-U ramp system to make them more
accessible for wheelchair users. Several new measures have been added to ensure the health and safety of all customers and employees. These include limiting capacity to 50 per cent to ensure adequate space for physical distancing, adding Plexiglass between the driver and passengers as an additional layer of prevention, making hand sanitizer available at the shuttle stops, and asking that face coverings be worn on board at all times. More information, along with daily schedules for the South Terminal shuttle service, is available at yvr.ca/en/passengers/ transportation/airport-south.
On Thursday, December 10, YVR will be hosting a contactless curbside drop-off outside the Graham Clarke Atrium on the Departures level, right before the Domestic Terminal Building. If you would like to take part, fill out a reusable grocery bag, or several, with the ingredients on the following shopping list: • 2 cans of soup • 2 cans of vegetables • 1 can of cranberry sauce • 1 box of crackers • 1 box of chocolates • 1 box of cookies • 2 cans of fruit • 2 packets of gravy • 2 boxes of instant mashed potatoes • 2 boxes of stuffing Please ensure that the bags
only contain the ingredients listed so that every meal is consistent. For every hamper filled, YVR will donate a turkey and Quest will provide fresh seasonal vegetables. The hampers will be provided to Lower Mainland families in need. Please bring your bags with all the ingredients listed for the holiday meal to the Graham Clarke Atrium (curbside) between 11am and 3pm on Thursday, December 10, and be a part of this annual airport community tradition in partnership with Quest Food Exchange. To learn more about Quest Food Exchange, please visit QuestOutreach.org. To learn more about the Hamper Drive, please visit YVR. ca/HamperDrive.
YVR achieves recognition with ACI Airport Health Accreditation
Welcome to Baseline Health & Wellness We treat a wide range of injuries or conditions and create plans to get you back to your baseline. SPECIALIZI NG I N TH E FOLLOWI NG AREAS:
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604 674 4027
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Airports Council Inter national (ACI), the global trade representative for the world’s airports, has accredited YVR through the organization’s Airport Health Accreditation programme (AHA). The AHA programme provides airports with a recognized global benchmark for their health measures, aligning them with the ACI Aviation Business guidelines and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council aviation recommendations for industry best practices. In order to receive accreditation, a review was done of YVR’s passenger areas and processes, including terminal access, check-
in areas, security screening, boarding gates, lounges, retail, food and beverages, gate equipment such as boarding bridges, escalators and elevators, border control areas and facilities (in collaboration with authorities), baggage claim area and arrivals exit. The accreditation by ACI is a testament to the important work being done every day at YVR to make the airport an industry-leader in creating a safe environment for passengers and employees, placing protocols at the forefront of its processes. More information about YVR’s health and safety program is available at yvr.ca/ TAKEcare.
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Your Airport & Sea Island Community Connection
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DECEMBER
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Portable human COVID-19 testing device delivers results in 90 minutes
DEC 2020 / JAN 2021 Vol. 27 | No. 6
2021
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Shoppers Drug Mart offers pre-departure COVID-19 testing for Air Canada customers
Website: www.skytalkonline.com
SkyTalk is owned and published bi-monthly by Westco Marketing Ltd., for the travelling public and the 24,000 people who make up the airport community at Vancouver International Airport. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. BACK ISSUES: issuu.com/skytalk MAILING ADDRESS: #181 - 4438 W 10th Vancouver, BC V6R 4R8 Tel: 604-736-6754 Email: jstewart@westerndriver.com
SkyTalk is distributed through dedicated racks in Vancouver International Airport’s Domestic and International Terminals and Airport South, plus all Sea Island businesses and Pitt Meadows and Boundary Bay airports. The publication is also distributed at Richmond hotels and to the Richmond community through Richmond City Hall, Richmond Oval, Richmond Chamber of Commerce, Richmond Public Library, and Community Centres. Each issue can be accessed online each month at www.skytalkonline.com. P U B L I S H E R & E DI T O R :
Joan Stewart 604.805.7315 Email: jstewart@westerndriver.com
Songbird Life Science utilizes the Hyris bCUBE for onsite human and surface testing to protect people and buildings from COVID-19. (CNW Group/Songbird Life Science)
Health Canada has granted approval for the Hyris bCUBE to be used as a medical device for COVID-19 human testing. The Hyris bCUBE is a portable DNA-testing laboratory in a box, offering Point of Care (POC) testing wherever people are—anytime, anywhere. Controlled by any device with an internet connection, including a smartphone, the scientifically validated bCUBE analyzes test samples through a cloudbased platform that delivers
accurate results in minutes. The bCUBE was previously approved and used for surface testing. Now, with Health Canada’s approval for human testing, more Canadians and businesses can access testing that is accurate, quicker and less invasive—wherever they are in the country. This is particularly significant for vulnerable or remote communities, businesses or industries, where access to onsite rapid testing is key.
Considered the “gold standard” according to the Centres of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization’s (WHO) effective testing guidelines, the bCUBE deploys PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) technology that has demonstrated a 95 per cent-plus accuracy rate in clinical trials. Similar trials are currently underway with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Toast the season at Fairmont Vancouver Airport’s Festive Afternoon Tea
Air Canada has teamed with Shoppers Drug Mart to provide Air Canada customers with the opportunity to take a pre-departure COVID-19 RT-PCR test in order to comply with international travel requirements. Starting December 7, eligible Air Canada customers can book and purchase a COVID19 test at participating Shoppers Drug Mart locations in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. Results are typically available within 24-48 hours. “Many countries now require a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test and we are pleased to facilitate this process for our customers, making their travel experience easier and safer by recommending the RT-PCR test at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations,” said Dr. Jim Chung, Air Canada’s chief medical officer. “We believe that testing is one of the keys to protecting employees and customers, and an important step to safely reopen travel around the world, easing travel restrictions by providing alternative testing solutions in managing risk.” This test will be available for customers flying to any destination requiring a negative COVID-
19 test, including Hawaii and the Caribbean (namely, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Antigua, Barbuda and St-Lucia). Air Canada’s service to Hawaii from Vancouver begins on December 17 and flights from Calgary start on December 18. Canadians are now eligible to be exempt from Hawaii’s mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival in the Hawaiian Islands via a pre-travel testing process. Visit the Hawaiian government website for more details. travel. hawaii.gov/#/ For more details on the list of approved testing entities by the Hawaiian Government, visit aircanada.com/covid19testing. Air Canada has been at the forefront of the airline industry in responding to COVID-19, including being among the first carriers globally to require customer face coverings onboard and the first airline in the Americas to check passengers› temperatures prior to boarding. In May 2020, the airline introduced a comprehensive program, called Air Canada CleanCare+, to apply industry leading biosafety measures at each stage of the journey.
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A380 provides a memorable passenger experience
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Cory Michel 604.736.6754 W E S TC O M A R K E T I NG LT D. P R E S I DE NT
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During the month of December, the time-honoured tradition of afternoon tea will be served in a special, festive setting at Globe@YVR Fairmont Vancouver Airport. For the first time, tea guests will have access to the hotel’s luxurious 14th floor Gold Lounge for a sparkling edition of the award-winning restaurant’s Festive Afternoon Tea.
Set against the spectacular backdrop of YVR’s active runways and the North Shore Mountains, guests will enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and choose delicacies from a seasonal menu of savoury tea sandwiches, fresh scones with fruit preserve and cream and a selection of holiday-themed sweets. Special Tealeaves blends,
sourced from the world’s tier1 gardens, will also be available to complement this special experience. Limited seating is available, with multiple dates available between December 5 and December 19, 2020. To book a ticket, visit exploretock.com/globeyvr/ event/210364/sparkling-festivetea.
The A380 is a modern icon that has flown more than 500,000 revenue flights carrying more than 190-million passengers. This includes more than 300 commercial flights per day, which take off or land around the world every two minutes. Flying with the A380 is a unique experience that introduces passengers to new standards of in-flight comfort, from first class
to economy. As the world’s largest and most spacious passenger aircraft, its cabin allows travellers to stretch out in the widest seats in a calm and relaxing environment. With the unparalleled freedom it gives passengers to move about the aircraft, it’s no surprise that the A380 is a favourite in all cabin classes.
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Air France resumes twiceweekly Vancouver-Paris flights
Travel between Vancouver and Paris will be available once again via Air France with two flights per week offered from December 14 to March 27, 2021. Additionally, a Paris-Papeete flight is temporarily stopping in Vancouver, replacing Los Angeles as the route’s refueling stop. “We are delighted to offer travellers who meet the criteria to enter France or any other of the world’s destinations we fly to, with this new option of doing so from Vancouver,” said Catherine Guillemart-Dias, vicepresident and general manager of Air France KLM Canada. “It also gives businesses that need to ship cargo an extra alternative.” This seat offer is limited to Vancouver-Paris-Vancouver travel and does not cover trips between French Polynesia and Canada. “Vancouver International Airport [YVR] remains one of four airports in Canada accepting international flights for the essential movement of passengers and goods,” said Russell Atkinson, director air service development, Vancouver Airport
Authority. “The return of the Air France service offers YVR passengers who need to travel an additional option to connect to Paris and onward.” Apart from certain exceptions, including visa holders and travellers for business, humanitarian or medical reasons, Air France reminds holders of Canadian passports they are no longer admitted in France for non-essential reasons. Canadians may still transit through Paris to travel to other Air France KLM countries they are permitted to enter. Passengers in transit are submitted to the entry regulations of their destination country. All travellers, regardless of nationality, authorized to fly to France will require to complete an International Travel Certificate to Mainland France and a Sworn Statement of absence of COVID19 symptoms. In addition, a negative COVID-19 test is now mandatory to enter France. It is recommended that a test be taken and the results obtained less than 72 hours
DEPARTURE ARRIVAL FROM TO
Vancouver Paris
prior departing from Canada. Air France has agreements in place with various laboratories and clinics in Canada, aimed at accelerating the testing process for their customers and making it possible for them to meet the requirements of the countries involved. Tests are also available on arrival at Charles-de-Gaulle airport. To meet the expectations of its customers, Air France has adapted its commercial policies and rolled out commercial measures that are 100 per cent flexible. Customers no longer able to travel as a result of the new rules can rebook in the same booking class for another date—no fee, no reason required. Or if preferred, request a credit voucher. This policy also applies to all new bookings, whether the cancellation is triggered by changes in entry rules at destination or a decision to call off the trip, regardless of the reason. Flights may be booked on the Air France website airfrance. ca or through a travel agent.
FLIGHT AIRCRAFT DAYS
Paris Dec 14 Mar 25 AF 075 B777-200 Vancouver Dec 15 Mar 27 AF 074 B777-200
Mondays Wednesdays Tuesdays Saturdays
2021
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WestJet adds flights to sun destinations during holiday season WestJet has updated its December schedule, featuring up to 55 daily flights to sun destinations in the Caribbean, the United States (including Hawaii) and Mexico. The schedule also highlights increased domestic frequencies for travel starting December 5, 2020 through to January 4, 2021. “While this winter travel season looks quite different from years past, we are pleased to be able to offer our guests a variety of flights during the holidays,” said Arved von zur Muehlen, WestJet chief commercial officer. “Whatever the reason for travel, WestJet continues to safely connect Canadians to destinations across our network and will continue to make changes to
the schedule to meet the everchanging needs of our guests and airline.” WestJet continues to operate at a reduced schedule and has removed more than 63 per cent capacity year over year, including approximately 73 per cent capacity from the December schedule alone. During the holiday season, the airline will offer flights to 54 destinations from a number of cities in Canada, nine in the U.S. including Hawaii, five
in Mexico, five in the Caribbean, one in Europe and one in Central America. Frequencies will increase throughout the month of December. Since the beginning of the pandemic, WestJet has implemented more than 20 additional health and safety measures during the travel journey and continues to evolve its cleaning to meet the needs of guests and WestJetters through its Safety Above All program.
WestJet is planning to operate the following transborder and international routes from YVR from December 5, 2020 to January 4, 2021:
Hawaii and U.S. Transborder MARKET DEC. 5-15, 2020
DEC. 16-JAN. 2020
Vancouver – Maui Vancouver – Honolulu Vancouver - Palm Springs 2x weekly Vancouver – Los Angeles Vancouver – Phoenix
3x weekly 3x weekly 2x weekly 2x weekly 2x weekly
Caribbean, Mexico and Europe MARKET DEC. 5-15, 2020
DEC. 16-JAN. 2020
Vancouver – San Jose del Cabo Vancouver – Puerto Vallarta 1x weekly Vancouver – Cancun
2x weekly 2x weekly 1x weekly
For more information, visit westjet.com.
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DECEMBER
Boeing’s 737 MAX returning to the skies in 2021
2020
/ JANUARY
2021
SKYTALK •
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Boxing Week
SALE December 26th – 31st
(reg hours)
Test flight of a Boeing 737 MAX lands at YVR in September 2020. Photo: Flyte Deck.
After a 20-month grounding, the first flight of the Boeing 737 MAX with anyone other than regulators and industry personnel onboard took place in early December. The American Airlines flight was a 45-minute trip from Dallas, Texas to Tulsa, Oklahoma with journalists, flight attendants and
other American Airlines employees onboard. In September, a 737 MAX that will be used in test flights conducted by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, landed at YVR. Vancouver was chosen as the site for the test flights because of COVID-19 travel
restrictions between Europe and the U.S. With more than 4,800 orders, the 737 MAX is the best-selling commercial aircraft in Boeing’s history. In the last full month that the aircraft was flown before being grounded, there were more than 25,000 flights performed around the world.
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Boeing forecasts strong post-pandemic growth in China’s aviation market
In 2016, Boeing and China Airlines celebrate the delivery of the world’s first co-branded 777, marking the carrier’s 10th 777-300ER.
Boeing is forecasting a robust recovery for the aviation sales market, following the COVID-19 pandemic, with China’s airlines set to acquire 8,600 new airplanes valued at $1.4 trillion and commercial aviation services valued at $1.7 trillion over the next 20 years. Boeing’s 2020 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) forecast cites China’s rapidly growing middle class, increased economic growth, growing urbanization and increased global passenger travel as factors that will lead to a demand for more commercial airplanes and services in the next few years. Since 2000, China’s commercial jet fleet has expanded sevenfold, and approximately 25 per cent of all aviation growth worldwide in the last decade has come from China. Boeing forecasts this trend
will continue over the next 20 years. Despite the challenges imposed by the pandemic, China’s projected airplane and services market represents a nearly seven per cent increase over last year’s 20-year CMO forecast. The increases are driven by continued high demand for single-aisle airplanes and China’s expanding share of passenger widebodies to support international routes, along with a large replacement cycle as China’s aircraft fleet matures. Boeing also anticipates growth in demand for new and converted freighters and digital solutions to help carriers further innovate and succeed. The complete Boeing CMO forecast is available at boeing.com/commercial/market/commercialmarket-outlook.
LIMIT YOUR #RISK OF EXPOSURE TO #COVID19 WITH THE ArriveCAN APP. IT WILL REDUCE YOUR WAIT TIME AND PHYSICAL CONTACT WITH OTHERS AT THE BORDER. Download the ArriveCAN app on your Apple and Android mobile devices The ArriveCAN mobile application, developed by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), provides a digital way for travellers entering Canada to provide their basic traveller information quickly, easily and securely within 48 hours before arriving in Canada. Use this mobile app to speed up your arrival process in Canada and spend less time with border and public health officers. The app helps you to: • provide mandatory information that is required for entry into Canada • avoid lineups and reduce points of contact at the border • provide updates on your quarantine compliance and the development of any symptoms during the 14 days after arriving in Canada The ArriveCAN app is available for free on Google Play and Apple App stores.
Min 25%. unless Noted or Red Tagged.
Big 6-Day Raffle Draw
! s t f i G N WI Fight Help er. Capronceceds to BC
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The Lower Mainland’s Biggest All-in-One Hobby Store has all kinds of entertaining products at Great Prices. n n n n n
Board Games that involve 2 to 4 players. Plastic Models to build and paint. Miniatures to paint. Challenging Puzzles to keep you entertained. A wide selection of Comics and Graphic Novels to read.
COVID ALERT to keep you safe and happy in-store. • Mandatory face mask wearing and social distancing. • Hand sanitizer station on entry. • Limited in-store numbers controlled on entry. • We request that you do not visit if your are sick or have travelled in the last 14 days
IMPERIAL HOBBIES LARGEST HOBBY STORE IN WESTERN CANADA
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IATA urges Canadian Government to support aviation industry The International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world’s airlines, is continuing its call for the Canadian government to provide financial support to keep the aviation sector viable and to safely re-establish connectivity by using testing to avoid quarantine for travellers. “The government has been stating for months that it is working on a vital support package for Canada’s airlines,” said Peter Cerdá, IATA’s regional vice president, the Americas. “It has failed to deliver thus far. Other governments see the need for financial support as an investment in economic recovery and have supported the industry with US$173 billion. Canada has some of the most draconian COVID-19 measures, which have essentially shut down most air connectivity and put the sector in a tailspin.” The biggest hurdles in stimulating international air traffic continue to be border closures and quarantines, both of which the government of Canada has just
extended to January 21, 2021. During its 76th Annual General Meeting, held at the end of November, IATA airline members unanimously called on governments to use testing to reopen borders for travel without quarantine. “In addition to financial support, the government needs
a plan to re-connect Canadians internally and to the world,” said Cerdá. “Quarantines kill demand for air travel and destroy jobs across the travel and tourism sector. COVID-19 testing for travel would keep Canadians safe and save jobs. This is an emergency. The same speed and determination that shut connectivity down
needs to be applied to supporting testing as the safe option to re-establishing connectivity, bringing families together, and catalyzing the economy.” According to IATA’s Value of Air Transport Report, in 2019 aviation contributed CA$51.4 billion to Canada’s annual GDP. Spending by foreign tourists
supported another CA$16.7 billion of GDP, making a total a contribution of CA$68.1 billion. In total, 3.2 per cent of the country’s GDP was supported by the air transport sector and foreign tourists arriving by air. “The government needs a plan to support this critical sector,” said Cerdá. “The sector is
in a crisis as never before. At the same time its value in linking people, supporting jobs and delivering goods—like vaccines—has never been more crucial. The government is under pressure to control the pandemic and support the economy. A plan for aviation will help it do both. And there is no time to spare.”
Survey reveals Canadians sticking to domestic travel in 2021 A recent survey conducted by the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA) found that 80 per cent of Canadians plan to travel in 2021, but most do not plan to cross borders anytime soon. The survey of 1,000 Canadians, ranging in age from 18 to 60-plus, revealed that 53
per cent of Canadians will only begin making cross-border travel plans when a COVID-19 vaccine is available. Results found that barring a vaccine, 74 per cent of respondents want carriers, from airlines to trains, to block off seating or operate below maximum capacity to allow for physical distanc-
ing before they feel comfortable booking any travel. Sixty-two per cent of Canadians also want assurances from their travel health insurance providers that they have appropriate coverage should they or their travel companions contract COVID-19 while on vacation. Twenty-nine per cent of sur-
SERVING THE AVIATION INDUSTRY HEAD OFFICE / AIRPORT: Tel: (604) 278-3551 • Fax: (604) 278-3291 B.C., Continental USA: Toll-Free 1-800-663-4080 PACIFIC HIGHWAY (BORDER) Tel: (604) 538-8414 • Fax: (604) 538-8148 OFFICES IN: Dawson Creek • Kelowna • Osoyoos Penticton • Vernon • Prince George Whitehorse • Northwest Territories
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vey respondents are willing to travel outside of Canada. Their biggest concern with travelling outside of Canada includes questions around returning safely. THIA recommends travellers following the golden rules of travel health insurance before leaving for vacation: • Know your policy— Insurance providers have staff available to answer any questions related to policies.
Make sure to ask your provider about extended coverage options for COVID-19, recent policy updates or changes. • Know your health and consult a health care provider if you have any questions. • Know your trip—How long will you be gone? Are you a snowbird? Will you be travelling many times during the year? Do you plan to scuba
dive? Find a policy that is specifically tailored to your trip. • Know your rights— The Bill of Rights and Responsibilities will help provide all travelling Canadians with additional confidence in their travel insurance purchase knowing their company is supporting their rights as a consumer and making them aware of their responsibilities.
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Canada’s major airlines welcome UK Government’s change to quarantine duration
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High-rise buildings of the City of London, together with part of the Tower of London. Photo: Tristan Surtel.
The National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC), representing Canada’s largest air carriers (Air Canada, Air Transat, Jazz Aviation LP and WestJet), has welcomed the announcement by the United Kingdom that as of December 15, passengers arriving in England will be able to significantly reduce their quarantine time, following a negative COVID-19 test five days after arrival. Travellers will have to pay for their own tests, which could cost between CAD$112 to $207. “We are encouraged by the UK government’s decision to follow a science-based approach and reduce quarantine measures following testing,” said Mike McNaney, president and CEO of the National Airlines Council of Canada. “This is an important step in furthering the safe re-start of aviation and travel, and we will continue to work with the Canadian government to push
for a clear and effective testing regime so that we can in turn address Canadian quarantine and travel restrictions.” It is estimated that travel restrictions will potentially reduce Canadian GDP from $27 billion to $37 billion and impact 400,000 to 500,000 jobs. Over the past several months Air Canada and WestJet, in conjunction with their airport partners, have initiated testing programs in Vancouver, Calgary and Vancouver. “We are committed to working with the federal government, as well as provincial authorities, to ensure the continued safe-restart of aviation,” said McNaney. “Testing will be a key component as governments around the world begin to adapt their quarantine and travel policies as a result of testing. We need to ensure Canadian policy is aligned with international best practices.”
YVR Art Foundation issues call for applications to Artist Scholarship Program
EXTRA HOLIDAY HOURS
OPEN SUNDAYS: DEC 6, 13 & 20
11am –5pm
COME OUT FOR OUR
NEW YEAR’S DAY SALE 2 DAYS ONLY!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 and SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
11am – 5pm The YVR Art Foundation has announced a call for applications to BC and Yukon Indigenous artists for the 2021 Emerging Artist Scholarship Program and the Mid-Career Artist Scholarship Program. YVR Art Foundation provides $5,000 art scholarships annually for BC and Yukon Indigenous Mid-Career visual artists (age 30+) to work with
a master artist, attend a recognized school of art or work on a special project of cultural significance to the artist’s community. Application deadline for this year’s scholarships is Thursday, January 28, 2021, at 4pm. For more information on YVR Art Foundation and to apply for a scholarship, visit yvraf.com/programs.
www.flightcity.ca
105 – 6080 Russ Baker Way, Richmond BC V7B 1B4 EMAIL: flightcityyvr@gmail.com 604 244 0140 Mon-Fri 10am – 6pm, Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun CLOSED
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Escape in comfort this winter with Air Canada Jetz
Air Canada is making its special fleet of Jetz Airbus A319 aircraft available on select routes during the holiday season. The aircraft, which are normally reserved for elite clients on a charter basis only, feature a cabin of 58 business class seats, with a spacious cabin configuration that offers more comfort and less waiting time
when boarding and deplaning. Travellers enjoy a menu curated by world-renowned Chef Antonio Park and wine selections by Véronique Rivest. Some sections of the planes even have four seats situated to face each other with a table in between, which are perfect for travelling families. For more details, please visit aircanada.ca.
FLIGHT # 1212 1213
DESTINATIONS Vancouver (YVR) > Phoenix (PHX) > Vancouver (YVR) Vancouver (YVR) > Phoenix (PHX) > Vancouver (YVR)
DATES Dec 20, 27, 2020 Jan 3, 6, 2021
1230 1231
Vancouver (YVR) > Puerto Vallarta (PVR) > Vancouver (YVR) Vancouver (YVR) > Puerto Vallarta (PVR) > Vancouver (YVR)
Dec 18, 21, 28, 2020 Jan 4, 2021
1211 1210
Vancouver (YVR) > Toronto (YYZ) > Vancouver (YVR) Vancouver (YVR) > Toronto (YYZ) > Vancouver (YVR)
Dec 22-23, 29-30, 2020 Dec 22-23, 29-30, 2020
As of December 12, Air Canada’s Jetz Airbus A319 aircraft will be made available on select routes.
British ‘Queen of the Skies’ saved for future generations
British Airways 747 in heritage BOAC livery. Photo: Stuart Bailey.
Two Boeing 747 aircraft will continue to inspire aviation enthusiasts across the UK for years to come, after permanent homes have been found for the airline’s retroliveried aircraft—the last to leave the airline’s fleet. The aircraft, registrations G-BNLY and G-BYGC, will depart from British Airways’
engineering base in Cardiff this month, where they will be waved off by the British Airways engineers, who for many years have proudly maintained the 747 fleet. The pair were among several aircraft painted in heritage liveries to mark the airline’s centenary in 2019. Adorned in the iconic Landor
British Airways in iconic Landor livery. Photo courtesy British Airways.
livery, used between 1984 and 1997, G-BNLY has been given a new lease of life as a permanent exhibit at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey. It will join its sister 747, G-CIVW, which was retired in late October 2020 and features the current Chatham Dockyard livery.
Boeing brought out its first 747, dubbed the ‘Queen of the Skies’, more than 50 years ago and for decades it was the favourite choice of airlines for longhaul routes. “While we will miss seeing them grace our skies, we are delighted to have found permanent homes for our remaining
centenary 747 aircraft,” said Sean Doyle, CEO British Airways. “We think they have great historical importance, not only to British Airways but to the entire aviation industry, and we are pleased they will be preserved for future generations in locations in the UK.” British Airways announced
YVR’s Favourite Bar & Grill is Open for Dine-in, Take-out & Delivery n Breakfast Everyday from 9am n Happy Hour Everyday from 3pm-5pm & 8:30pm ‘til Close n 2 for 1 Appetizers on Mondays (5pm ‘til close) n Cheap Taco Tuesdays (3pm ‘til close) n Wings on Sale Every Wednesday (5pm ‘til close) n Steak & Prawn Dinner Special Thursdays (5pm ‘til close) n All Pizzas $10 Each on Sundays (5pm ‘til close)
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&
G R I L L
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in July 2020 it was retiring its fleet of 31 747-400 aircraft, as a result of the devasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the airline and the aviation sector. The fleet is being replaced by quieter more fuel-efficient aircraft as part of the airline’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
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Air Tahiti Nui, flag carrier of French Polynesia In March 2020, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions by the United States on international flights, Air Tahiti Nui operated the world’s longest domestic flight with a lightly-loaded Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The aircraft flew nonstop from Faa’a International Airport serving Papeete to Charles de Gaulle
Airport serving Paris, skipping the then-restricted intermediate stop at Los Angeles International Airport, and traversing a greatcircle distance of 15,715 kilometres between the two airports. The airline’s flights between Papeete and Paris were later adjusted to make technical stops interchangeably between Pointe-àPitre, Guadeloupe and Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
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Crossword Solution for Dec 2020 / Jan 2021.
Courtesy of Mirroreyes Internet Services Corporation
Air Tahiti Nui takes off from YVR. Photo: Flyte Deck.
Auto Repair Services you can count on!
We have been providing quality car care in Vancouver, BC since 1980. We’re focused on providing you honest and professional automotive repair and auto maintenance services . Our quality certified technicians employ today’s latest automotive technology and are equipped to handle all major and minor repairs on foreign and domestic vehicles.
Open For Business At Pawlik Automotive we are open for business and are grateful for that. While life has slowed down substantially, cars and trucks are still moving and will continue to need maintenance and repairs.
Sanitized Work Space
Air Tahiti Nui unveiled its French Polynesian-inspired crew uniforms in conjunction with the introduction of its new Tahitian Dreamliner at the 53rd International Paris Air Show – Le Bourget in June 2019.
At our shop we are using sanitizing procedures to make sure that we deliver your car germ and virus free. We are also keeping our office area sanitized. Transactions with our shop can be done utilizing social distancing. If you do not want to make contact with us we can take payments over the phone or e-transfer. Keys can be put into our drop slot and hidden in or on your car for pick up.
Complimentary Pick up & Drop off Service
For those of you who cannot or do not wish to leave your homes we can offer the convenience of pick up and drop off service. This could be a great time to service your vehicle and, if you are not currently using it, have it in top shape when life returns to normal. Please contact us with any questions that you have. I wish you and your family good health and strength through the days and weeks ahead. Bernie Pawlik • 604-327-7112
TRUST A PROVEN RECORD OF SATISFACTION!
Voted 18 Times “Best In Vancouver” for Auto Repair.
Vancouver’s Award Winning Auto Service Team. 5 minutes from YVR.
Call us today 604-327-7112 30-966 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver Just east of Arthur Laing Bridge www.pawlikautomotive.com
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Air Canada, Transat buyout goes ahead
Air Canada still plans to purchase Transat A.T. Inc., but the value of the transaction has decreased substantially from CAD$720 million, originally agreed to in August 2019, to CAD$190 million. Under the new agreement, unanimously approved by the Board of Directors of Transat, Air Canada will acquire all shares of Transat for $5.00 per share, compared to the $18 per share originally pledged in Air Canada’s takeover bid. The amended transaction reflects the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 upon the global air transport industry, which has endured a severe decline in air travel since the initial Arrangement Agreement between Air Canada and Transat was concluded and approved by Transat shareholders, “COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on the global airline industry, with a material impact on the value of airlines and aviation assets.,” said Calin Rovinescu, president and chief executive officer of Air Canada. “Nonetheless, Air Canada
intends to complete its acquisition of Transat, at a reduced price and on modified terms. This combination will provide stability for Transat’s operations and its stakeholders and will position Air Canada, and indeed the Canadian aviation industry, to emerge more strongly as we enter the postCOVID-19 world.” The transaction remains subject to shareholder approval, court approval, the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange, certain customary and other conditions, and regulatory approvals including the ongoing approval process of regulatory authorities in Canada and the European Union. The Transat Board of Directors has unanimously determined that the amended transaction is in the best interests of Transat and its stakeholders and is recommending that Transat shareholders vote in favour of the transaction. If approvals are obtained and conditions are met, the transaction is expected to be completed in late January or early February 2021.
2020
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CrossWord ACROSS 1 Nature of being 5 Figure or form 10 Journey 14 A flat boat of logs 15 Resembling wax 16 City in Nevada 17 Loosening 19 Slightly open 20 A levy imposed by the government 21 Annoys 22 Of great importance 24 Desire for another’s possession 25 Water channels 26 Barbaric 29 Flaw 30 Braid 31 Made a mistake 32 Contingencies 35 Resembling snake-like fishes 36 Fluid pumped by the heart 37 Wound by piercing 38 Chinese revolutionary 39 A woman whose husband has died 40 Declines 41 Slackly twisted yarn 43 Spirits 44 Anagram of “Replies” 46 Postal deliveries 47 Cows 48 Backtalk 49 Perceive visually 52 Capital of Western Samoa 53 Bric-a-brac 56 Scallion 57 Floodbank 58 A single time 59 Gaelic 60 Leavening agent 61 Require.
DOWN 1 Formerly 2 Anagram of “Alas” 3 A city in Tunisia 4 Etcetera 5 Veer 6 A square piece of cloth 7 Main stem 8 Writing implement 9 Immersed 10 Very sad 11 Brush-offs 12 Fatuous 13 Harbors 18 Male monarchs 23 Regretted 24 Not difficult 25 Short-horned goat antelope of southeast Asia 26 Stalk 27 District
28 Speeds 29 A line of saliva 31 Church deacon 33 Active worry 34 Soap-frame bar 36 Fortnightly 37 Prison 39 In good health 40 Whip 42 Recapture 43 A seal 44 Weighing machine 45 What we write on 46 Ceremonial staffs 48 A Hindu god 49 Rational 50 Latin for “Behold!” 51 Supplemented with difficulty 54 Born 55 French for “No”.
Crossword solution on page 9
Name that Aircraft LAST MONTH’S WINNERS:
To provide free flights for Canadians who are in financial need and must travel to healthcare.
David Huang Kent Keenlyside Debbie McGuire
Donate. Volunteer. Organize. Ask us how. We need your help.
Answer:
Hope Air has a simple mission:
www.hopeair.ca 1-877-346-4673
Send the correct name of this aircraft (make & model) and you could win a
Lockheed C-5 Galaxy
Win a $25 Gift Certificate to
FLYING BEAVER BAR & GRILL
4760 Inglis Drive, Richmond, BC
Donate to help support and make a difference in the lives of BC’s Organ Transplant Children and their families. Children’s Organ Transplant Society offers: • Support Services • Peer, Teen and Sibling Support • Education • Advocacy • Financial Support • Key Links and Resources • Awareness For additional information or to make a donation, visit www.childrensots.org 8323 Fremlin Street Vancouver, BC V6P 3X1 • Tel: 604-271-7719 Email: info@childrensots.org
Send your answer: Email joanbelgrave@hotmail.com; Mail to: #181-4438 West 10th Avenue,Vancouver, BC V6R 4R8 Draw will be made from all correct entries received by Jan 31, 2021. The winner’s name will be published in the February / March 2021 edition of SkyTalk and at skytalkonline.com.
The Lockheed C-5 Galaxy is a large military transport aircraft originally designed and built by Lockheed, and now maintained and upgraded by its successor, Lockheed Martin. The Galaxy has many similarities to the smaller Lockheed C-141 Starlifter and the later Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. It is among the largest military aircraft in the world.
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Tel: 604 736-6754 • E-mail: jstewart@westerndriver.com
22,000 Readers Every Month | $17.50 Per Col Inch
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICES
Make your dollar go further!
we’re here for you! ti e for rs u o H New
bs e W k Chec Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy a Quiet Place...
...for quiet reflection, prayer, meditation ...to relax, listen to music, eat your lunch, read a book.
a Safe Place... Please visit us on International Arrivals Level 2, or contact us by phone: (604) 303-3010 or email: ChaplainKirkley@gmail.com : yvrchaplaincy.org
PRODUCTS ASIAN TELEVISION NETWORK ATN provides you with access to ASIAN TELEVISION VIEWERS in Canada
Your Donation of Funds will
Help us Purchase Most-Needed Items
$1 donated provides about $6 worth of food! Like fresh, protein-rich foods, baby formula, and diapers. Thanks to you, our programs serve 2,200 people a week! Donate Securely Online In person with cash or cheque Or over the phone by Visa or Mastercard
604 271 5609 richmondfoodbank.org #100 5800 Cedarbridge Way Richmond,
• • • •
53 Channels, nine languages, one network South Asian Households spend over $32 Billion Chinese Households, $34 Billion ASIAN TELEVISION NETWORK is being seen by over 650,000 people in Canada • Close to 290,000 viewers in Western Canada We help Organizations, Professionals, Businesses, Traders & Individuals reach those viewers at a reasonable monthly cost. Please get in touch for demographics/more info.
Roger: govindraj@AsianTelevision.com
YOUR AIRPORT & SEA ISLAND COMMUNITY CONNECTION
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B & B ACCOMMODATION RICHMOND
MERCHANDISE
• New CDs & Records • New DVDs • Posters Richmond’s Only Record Store
12240 2nd Ave. @ Bayview, Steveston Village
604-204-0044
w w w. b e a t m e r c h a n t . c o m
Chestnut Tree Bed & Breakfast Comfortable accommodation, with special discounts for airline personnel. Five minutes from airport, in Richmond. Free pick-up to and from airport. Phone Penny or Ross (604) 273-1198 E-mail: chestnuttree@shaw.ca
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West PointTerminal & Canadian K9 Air Cargo Screening Services West Point Terminal and Canadian K9 have formed a strategic business alliance to offer future air cargo screening, using explosive detection K9 teams. This alliance ensures a dedicated K9 screening facility on Sea Island, offering premium cargo screening both on and off the airport site via a 26,000-sq.-ft bonded warehouse facility, coupled with a mobile K9 screening capability. The use of K9 for explosive detection amounts to one of the fastest, reliable, cost-effective and robust real-time detection strategy available to safeguard air cargo. To maintain the integrity of the air cargo secure supply chain and to assure compliance when handling shipments, the K9 screening services operate in accordance with Transport Canada’s Air Cargo Security Program and the future Explosive Detection Dog and Handler Team (EDDHT) Program requirements.
Established in 2006, West Point Terminal operates within Canada’s air cargo secure supply chain. Our bonded warehouse is a CBSA-Partners in Protection (PIP) designated facility. West Point Terminal is also designated as a Certified Agent under the Transport Canada Air Cargo Security Program. Established in 1997, Canadian K9 is a division of group8108 Executive Protection Inc., a privately held VIP security company established in 2010 to provide security support to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. An innovative leader in the detection of explosives and narcotics, it was the first security company to provide K9 detection services in Western Canada. K9 teams are professionally trained to a high level of proficiency and validated through the Justice Institute of BC and possess Transport Canada Security Clearance.
For more information on K9 services, Contact Kevin Haggerty, Cargo Security Coordinator, West Point Terminal
778.870.1920 or email kevin@westpointinc.com