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WestJet turns 25: a look back over the years
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On a leap day in 1996, a new airline partner known as WestJet landed at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for the first time. Fast forward 25 years, WestJet has become a longstanding partner at YVR, introducing new routes and services, increasing their fleet offerings and providing WestJet guests with the airline’s award-winning customer experience. While a formal celebration of this milestone will have to wait, following are some key milestones of WestJet’s 25 years at YVR. Partners since the start When WestJet launched service on February 29, 1996, Vancouver was one of the airline’s five original destinations. Since then, 67 million WestJet guests have travelled through YVR. New home at YVR In 2015, YVR celebrated the opening of the expanded Domestic Terminal, the A-B Connector, home to many of WestJet’s domestic flights. Featuring new gate capacity, an expedited baggage system and a wide range of new dining and shopping options, the
WestJet’s Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft are equipped with blended winglet technology, which help to improve aerodynamic performance and handling characteristics, boost flight range and reduce fuel burn by up to four per cent.
A-B Connector was introduced to keep YVR connected to destinations across Canada. Introduction of new routes & services Over the years, WestJet’s network of flights from YVR has linked some favourite holiday destinations—Huatulco, Mexico; and Lihue, Hawaii— with Nanaimo, Comox, and Terrace in B.C. And of course, let’s not forget Disneyland. When WestJet announced service to Orlando International Airport it was Vancouver’s only service to Florida and WestJet’s first service to
Orlando. Disney devotees and Caribbean cruisers were big fans of the new route. In 2016, YVR also celebrated the inaugural flight of WestJet’s first non-stop service to Europe from YVR to London Gatwick. The event included a ribbon cutting, a model aircraft presentation and a London-themed cake. Plane spotting favourites WestJet’s fleet has come a long way since first being introduced using three B737200 aircraft. In 2013, WestJet introduced Encore, its regional airline, and YVR was one of
the first airports to welcome service via the Bombardier Q400 NextGen turboprop. And for Disney fans, WestJet’s custom-painted Magic Plane, featuring a Walt Disney World Resort theme, and its Disney Frozen-themed aircraft have both been spotted at YVR. Fast forward to October 2020, which marked a special milestone for YVR’s long-standing partner, when its newest aircraft, the 787 Dreamliner, touched down at YVR for the very first time. To celebrate the occasion, members of the Musqueam
community provided a special welcome as the aircraft landed and made its way to the terminal. It takes a team As the initial impacts of COVID-19 grounded the aviation industry to a halt, several WestJet aircraft were parked on the runway threshold at YVR. While this served as a stark reminder of the impact of COVID-19, it also spoke to the adaptability and resilience displayed by industry partners, who rallied together to support one another in the face of a monumental challenge. See WESTJET page 3
YVR rolls out 2021 Strategic Plan Globally, the commercial aviation industry continues to face the impacts of COVID19, with dramatic reductions in passenger and flight volumes. While the emergence of new vaccines provides a glimmer of hope for recovery, most countries continue to impose travel restrictions at a national level and many local health authorities are regularly adjusting mobility and safety protocols in response to COVID case numbers. Though airports are adapting to changing travel requirements and measures—often in short order—and have been responsible for many industry innovations, most aviation
Graphic: courtesy Edelman Vancouver, Tina Furesz.
experts acknowledge that the impact to global travel will continue through 2021 and
beyond. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has a long
history of success, serving the B.C. community and its economy by facilitating trade, tourism and the exchange of knowledge amongst diverse stakeholders. As a result, YVR has been recognized for innovation, growth and, with its uniquely B.C.-themed surroundings, for providing the very best introduction to the region. Comprehensive, long-term plans that consider large capital investments designed to generate value, as well as passenger forecasts, stakeholder priorities, industry trends and economic outlooks have contributed to YVR’s success. While planning has usually been done in timelines
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of decades, not months, the pandemic has forced a reexamination of the airport’s future in the short-term. This has resulted in the rollout of a 2021 Strategic Plan that includes a review of every aspect of its business to ensure YVR continues to thrive in the future. Organized into six strategic areas of focus, YVR’s 2021 Strategic Plan outlines the ways in which the groundwork for success will be laid and includes the flexibility to test and adjust for longer term 2022, and beyond. To learn more about YVR’s 2021 Strategic Plan, visit yvr. ca/en/about-yvr/2021-strategicplan.
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Government of Canada travel advice and advisories As of April 1, 2021, the Government of Canada’s travel advice and advisories global information site states the following: • Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice • Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice Mandatory COVID19 testing In order to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers five years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the predeparture test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they
may need to schedule a COVID19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada. All travellers five years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada. Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure. It is recommended that travellers visit the Government of Canada website to have the most up-to-date travel information. The site also provides a list of all global destinations and their current entry and exit requirements. Visit travel.gc.ca/travelling/ advisories.
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Airbus has launched its Tripset travel app, which is designed to ease and restore passengers’ trust in their end-to-end journey when travelling by air during the COVID-19 pandemic. The app aggregates and provides flight and travel information that includes the latest and most relevant travel conditions, restrictions and health requirements in place at airports and on airlines, without having to consult a variety of sources.
With two interfaces that allow passengers to know both currently available flights and the destinations to which they can fly, the app takes the guesswork out of travelling. The app also provides passengers with information on what to expect at their departure and arrival destinations, once their ticket has been purchased, Tripset is free for download on Android/iOS from the regular AppStore.
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A sign of better times ahead Since the pandemic lockdowns began, rainbows have appeared in windows across the globe. In many cultures, rainbows are a sign of hope and a visual promise of better times to come. This photo, which was captured at YVR’s South Terminal, is the perfect embodiment of hope for a brighter time once the pandemic storm passes and travellers can once again take to the skies en masse. Photo: courtesy Flytedeck
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Air Canada and Transat agree to terminate buy/sell agreement Your Airport & Sea Island Community Connection APRIL / MAY 2021 Vol. 29 | No. 1
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 :
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Air Canada and Transat have mutually agreed to terminate an Arrangement Agreement for the proposed acquisition of Transat by Air Canada. The two companies had originally agreed in June 2019 on the acquisition, the terms of which were subsequently amended in August 2019 and then revised in October 2020
as a result of the severe economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The acquisition was conditional on the approval of various regulatory authorities, including the European Commission (EC). In order to meet the EC’s key condition, Air Canada officials said the airline offered and enhanced a package of remedies,
which went beyond what has been traditionally accepted by the EC in previous airline merger cases. However, the EC recently advised the two companies that it would not approve the transaction. Both Air Canada and Transat subsequently released statements announcing the termination of the $190-million deal, with Air
Canada paying Transat a termination fee of $12.5 million, and with Transat no longer under any obligation to pay Air Canada any fee should Transat be involved in another acquisition or similar transaction in the future. Following the announcement of the termination of the buy/sell agreement, Canadian Transport Minister Omar
Alghabra took to his Twitter account to issue a statement in which he wrote that the “most important thing,” in addition to protecting jobs, is “preserving the long-term viability of Transat AT. Our government will continue to support Canadian workers and a strong, competitive air transport sector.”
Air Canada’s A220 to fly in retro TCA livery Air Canada is now operating a specially painted Airbus A220-300 in the colours of the airline’s original name, TransCanada Air Lines (TCA), which will be flown on the carrier’s routes across North America. The special liveried aircraft, which took to the skies for its maiden flight in March 2021, pays tribute to the airline’s heritage, which can be traced back to its founding in 1937. Aviation buffs will recall that Air Canada also celebrated the TCA heritage livery in August 1997, when the airline celebrated its 60th anniversary. At that time, it was painted onto a brandnew Airbus A319, making its
Trans-Canada retro livery on Air Canada A220-300. TCA was Canada’s airline flag carrier from 1937 to 1965, when it was renamed Air Canada.
delivery flight from Toulouse to Montreal with a group of employees on board to celebrate the occasion. After nearly 24 years in the fleet that A319 aircraft was
retired in January 2021. Designed and built in Quebec, the Airbus A220300 is an integral part of Air Canada’s fleet modernization and each aircraft includes
YVR personnel assist VCH with logistics at River Rock mass vaccination site
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parts from 30 companies that are based or have activities in Canada—making the A220300 a true testament to the importance of the aviation sector in Canada.
The retro TCA livery took nine days to complete and involved 75 Airbus Canada employees who used 350 litres of paint, comprising the four colours.
WestJet from page 1 One such example in the spirit of collaboration: YVR and WestJet launched the WestJet-YVR COVID-19 Testing Study, together with UBC and Providence Health Care. This was the first study of its kind in Canada to evaluate a method of COVID-19 rapid antigen testing in order to provide information on the safest and most efficient way of screening departing passengers at YVR. When WestJet first took flight in 1996, it did so with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations.
A quarter of a century later, the airline has more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and offers 100-plus destinations in 23 countries, pre-pandemic. Over the years, the airline has also donated more than 200,000 flights to charitable organizations, and more than 575,000 volunteer hours have been donated to local community organizations through its WestJetters Caring for the Community program. For more information on flights, visit westjet.com.
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Did You Know? Airport employees are currently filling several shifts at Richmond’s mass vaccination site at the River Rock, providing aid to healthcare workers in expediting clerical and information processes.
Effective March 16, 2021 YVR partnered with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) to assist at the mass vaccination site, located at the River Rock in Richmond. With its expertise at moving people and delivering an exceptional customer experience, YVR will oversee the non-medical
aspect of the vaccine rollout, including logistics and staffing. The partnership between YVR and VCH began in November 2020, when YVR’s JetSet long-term parking lot was converted into a COVID-19 testing site. Staffing was provided by VCH personnel and,
in addition to the site, YVR provided the logistics, signage and coordination. For the team at YVR, assisting at the River Rock vaccination site is once again an opportunity for employees to come together to support the community with this once-in-a-generation effort.
SMS began in Canada In 1999, Canada was the first country to implement safety management systems (SMS) as a new way to eliminate safety risks in civil aviation. SMS consists of four functional components: • Safety Policy
• Safety Risk Management • Safety Assurance • Safety Promotion With an effective SMS in place, a safety team can see exactly where accidents and unsafe situations are occurring and take proactive steps to eliminate them.
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Women in aviation celebrated at YVR on IWD 2021 International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a day to recognize and celebrate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women globally, while also raising awareness of the work left to be done. The 2021 IWD campaign theme was titled Choose to Challenge, a call for everyone to choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequalities faced by women and girls, thereby taking action to help forge an inclusive world. In affirmation and celebration of the Day, some of YVR’s women employees, who have chosen to “challenge” through their career choices, were acknowledged.
Diana Vuong
Responsible for finance, accounting, enterprise risk management and sustainability reporting, Diana Vuong leads the finance team as YVR’s CFO and VP, finance. Vuong started working at YVR in 2008 and is the airport’s youngest CFO. Not only is she a full-time mother of two young children, she has also been at the helm of supporting the airport’s finances during its single largest operating deficit and debt burden as a result of the drastic effects of COVID-19 on the aviation industry. Vuong credits her success not only to her dedication and love for her career and the airport, but also to those who have chosen to chal-
lenge, support and advocate on her behalf. “We’ve made a lot of progress in this area, but we need to continue to choose to challenge what we’re expected to do in an organization and what biases exist with respect to specific roles.” Fun fact: Vuong is a CFO by day and hip-hop dancer by night. In fact, she was a dancer in the closing ceremonies at the 2010 Winter Olympics. She was also a torch bearer and part of the crowd at the Olympics cauldron unveiling.
Michele Zietlow-Euerby
It’s not often one sees a female running an airline’s entire airport operation, but Zietlow-
Euerby is an example of someone who chose to challenge. Zietlow-Euerby is the leader of a team that delivers customer service and airport operations that support Air Canada’s flights from its Trans-Pacific hub at YVR. She has worked at the airport for 34 years and has been Air Canada’s director, station operations at YVR since 2016. Her love of aviation, combined with the drive to pursue all opportunities and learn from every undertaking, were just a few of the ways she rose to the top at Air Canada’s YVR hub. “Challenge yourself every day. If something is not working, try a different approach. Jump at all opportunities that come your way and always put your best effort forward.” Fun fact: Zietlow-Euerby lives in perfect view of the flight path to YVR and is always looking to see which aircraft are in the sky. The sound of Air Canada’s largest aircraft, the Boeing 777300ER, still sends shivers down her spine.
Kristine Kirkby
At four years old, Kirkby became enamoured of Golden eagles, which quickly became her favourite animal. She knew then that she wanted a job in wildlife. In 2013, Kirkby joined the YVR wildlife team and has helped bring the program to new heights. She currently manages the raptor trapping and translocation program. She works with hawks, eagles, owls, falcons and birds with large masses that can pose a risk to aircraft. Kirkby and the wildlife team move these big birds to suitable habitats away from the airport, while continuing to monitor and manage resident birds. While her job is unique, she has experienced challenges similar to many other women in scientific fields. From working in environments that were entirely male, to noting that the bar is often set higher for females, Kirkby has had to challenge inequality
during her entire career. Over the years, there has been a paradigm shift in Kirby’s field, leading to a now strong representation of women in wildlife research and husbandry. Kirkby acknowledges that she’s been fortunate to follow in the footsteps of earlier generations, who fought through gender stereotypes to become leaders in the field. Fun fact: As a child, Kirkby believed Golden eagles were large enough that she could ride on their backs as they flew. They remain one of her favourite species and she even attended the Golden eagle festival in Mongolia in 2016.
novel for real-world heroes titled, “Wonderful Women of History.” And this honour is well deserved, because not only has Fraser been able to bring her own career to new heights, but she is always looking for opportunities to raise up other women in the aviation industry. And as if owning her own airline and being featured in a comic book isn’t enough to demonstrate her trailblazing, she also spends her spare time supporting, creating and participating in programs that lift Indigenous people and women in business. Fun fact: Fraser has never had a cup of coffee in her entire life. Instead, every morning she enjoys a hot cup of tea.
Teara Fraser
Betty Butchart
This individual will soon be known to everyone as a “superhero.” She is the first Indigenous woman in Canada to start an airline, Iskwew [pronounced isskway-yo] Air and is about to be featured in a DC Comics graphic
Butchart is the embodiment of the 2021 International Women’s Day theme, Choose to Challenge. For the past 32 years, in her position as an electrician in a male-dominated industry, Butchart has been a leader in helping YVR move the dial forward in its corporate policy, trades environment and cultural thinking. Not only is Butchart a master of her trade, she is also a team player, going above and beyond every day to exemplify YVR’s values of safety, teamwork, accountability, and innovation. Fun fact: Butchart is a woman of many interests. She loves gardening, horseback riding and cruising around town in her 1950 Dodge pick-up and anything Mustang GT-related.
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Did You Know? Birds in the terminal
As the largest building in BC, with hundreds of doors and windows, birds can sometimes make their way inside the terminal areas at YVR. Once indoors, the open architecture inside the buildings allows these feathered travellers to find their way to almost any area. While most typically find their way out on their own, some opt to stay. Each time a sighting is reported, YVR’s wildlife management team monitors the situation and employs a variety of methods to attempt to capture and safely remove and release them back to nature.
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Winnipeg’s Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada close to landing running, people from all over the world will be able to access its collection through virtual tours
and online programming offered on RAMWC’s website. To learn more about the
Composite of Winnipeg’s Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, which is currently under construction by PCL. Photo: courtesy RAMWC.
The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada (RAMWC) is slated to re-open the doors of its brand new, state-of-the-art building on Wellington Avenue, the main entrance/exit road for Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) in early 2022. Established in 1974, the museum had nearly 100 historic aircraft and more than 70,000 artifacts, texts and photographs, making it one of Canada’s largest aviation heritage collections. The RAMWC has almost reached its goal of $48 million,
with donations to fuel the museum’s spectacular transformation having been provided by individuals, corporations, foundations, and all levels of Government. Upon entering the museum, which will feature a Tiger Moth hanging overhead, visitors will first access the Richardson Gallery of Flight. From here, visitors will be guided with the story of flight across western and northern Canada through 14 immersive galleries, including 22 aircraft and a rich of selection of artefacts. The galleries will highlight
SERVING THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
Manitoba’s contribution to aviation history and will be designed to inspire future aviators and inventors through displays that pay tribute to the science of flight. The museum, which is located on the traditional territory of Anishnaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Métis nation, will also honour and commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ history, sharing stories of their involvement in aviation across Northern Manitoba in displays covering two floors. Once the museum is up and
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
Air North’s April Fools’ Tall Tail Charters During a press conference on April 1, Air North president and CEO Joe Sparling, announced that the airline would be launching “Tall Tail Charters,” a set of specially curated holiday experiences just for dogs. Some of the initial experiences on offer included splashing in the ocean at Wreck Beach in Vancouver, enjoying belly rubs under the midnight sun in Inuvik, peeing on the nicest flowers and trees Victoria has to offer in Beacon Hill Park, and—for the quietest and most respectful dogs—watching the Porcupine Caribou Herd migrate past Old Crow. The airport experience for pets would include special greeters and their human families would be given an all-new Pet Passport. Aircraft amenities were to include thoughtful touches, such as a puppy pit, where the most energetic dogs could play to their heart’s content, and an elder’s nook—where older dogs could enjoy some gentle scratches from the airline’s dog happiness team. The latter would have been trained and supervised by wellknown Yukon Quest mushers. Naturally, complimentary chew toys would be handed out throughout the flight. The most significant changes were to be a hydrant in the forward lavatory and a tree in the aft lavatory—allowing discerning dogs to choose their preferred target—and retrofitted windows that could be rolled down inflight so that the sensation of speed could be enjoyed like never before.
Air North also promised that the food would be a revelation for the dogs—bacon-flavoured cookies, served warm. The airline hoped to welcome its first Tall Tail ‘pawsengers’ this summer, and Sparling confirmed that all pets who flew with Air North would be considered very
RAMWC, visit royalaviationmuseum.com.
good dogs indeed! Unfortunately, the Tall Tail flights will not be happening anytime soon, but in the spirit of doing something for animal lovers, Air North donated travel certificates to the Dawson City Humane Society and the Yukon Humane Society.
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Canadian airports expect additional $1B in lost revenues, CAC calls for Government action The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), the voice for Canada’s airports, continues to call on federal and provincial governments to work with airports and other industry stakeholders to ensure that post-pandemic, there will be a functioning air sector that supports Canadian travel, tourism and trade. With the increase in air travel restrictions and new quarantine and testing requirements imposed during the last quarter of 2020 and early 2021, the CAC’s
December outlook projected that revenue losses for Canada’s airports have deepened to $5.5 billion for 2020 and 2021—a $1 billion deterioration since the last analysis was released in August 2020. According to the CAC, given that no more than 20 per cent of the measures outlined in the federal Fall Economic Statement will come in the form of direct grants to address operational losses, Canada’s airports expect to take on about $2.8 billion in
additional debt through to 2021. “While the federal government has been supportive, it is missing the sense of urgency to act quickly and decisively,” said Daniel-Robert Gooch, CAC president. “The reality is that these losses are unsustainable. Without government action, air travel will not only become a lot more expensive, but Canadians everywhere will have fewer choices of routes and destinations, including at the four major hub airports.”
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.
Prior to the onset of COVID19, most Canadian airports were almost entirely funded through passenger and aeronautical fees, which have dropped catastrophically, with passenger traffic at zero to 15 per cent of pre-COVID levels at most airports. “[Ground lease rent relief and the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy] provided some assistance, but not enough to help support airports dealing with higher costs and cratering revenues,” said Gooch. “In fact, our analysis shows that even their modest impact was far less than the government projected.” The CAC has identified several government-led actions
to avoid the worst outcomes, including: • Working inclusively with Canadian airports and industry partners on a plan to restart air travel when it is safe to do so. • Implement a moratorium on ground lease rents and provide options for interest-free loans (or equivalent operational support) until the business recovers, which could take five years or longer. • Expand national transportation infrastructure funding to meet safety and security requirements and adapt to COVID-19 and climate change.
• Make permanent the elevated Airports Capital Assistance Program funding and expanded eligibility criteria to ensure sustainable recovery at Canada’s regional airports. “Since the outset of the pandemic, airports have worked with transport, border and public health officials, among others, to ensure that air travel is as healthy and safe as possible and to continue to provide essential and emergency services for Canadians,” said Gooch. “We look forward to working with our government colleagues to rebuild confidence in air travel and save the industry from long term and irreparable damage.”
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Boom’s supersonic jet to combine speed with sustainability Future Travel Experience
Slated to be in service in 2025, Boom’s supersonic airliner Overture is designed to run on 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel.
Colorado-based Boom Supersonic, the aerospace company that is building the world’s fastest and most sustainable commercial airliner, has announced a strategic investment from American Express Ventures. The funds obtained will support the continued development of Boom’s flagship product, the supersonic airliner Overture. Overture is Boom’s 65- to 88-seat supersonic airliner, capable of running on 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel. The supersonic aircraft is slated to roll out in 2025 and begin commercial flights by 2029. Boom currently has $6 billion
in pre-orders of Overture aircraft. Built on the core principles of speed, safety and sustainability, Overture will fly twice as fast as conventional jets over more than 500 transoceanic routes worldwide. “We’re proud that Amex Ventures shares our commitment to making the world more accessible by bringing sustainable supersonic travel to passengers everywhere,” said Blake Scholl, Boom’s founder and CEO. “2021 is a pivotal year for Boom. As we prepare to fly our supersonic demonstrator, XB-1, we are also accelerating Overture development.”
Air Canada commits to net-zero emissions by 2050 Air Canada has set an ambitious climate target goal to realize net-zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) throughout its global operations by 2050. Air Canada has identified the following key carbon reductions pillars to achieve its goal: Fleet and Operations; Innovation; Sustainable Aviation Fuels and Clean Energy; Carbon Reductions and Removals. This is a particularly noteworthy goal that sets Air Canada as a global leader in sustainability by going above and beyond the commitments of international aviation defined in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA); and, the aviation
industry’s own target as defined by the Air Transport Action Group’s Waypoint 2050 Aviation Beyond Borders. In 2019 and 2020, Air Canada was recognized by Vancouver Airport Authority as the YVR Green Excellence winner for green initiatives on Sea Island, including water and energy conservation, waste minimization and the Richmond Ocean Shoreline Cleanup. Air Canada currently reports its carbon footprint, targets and climate protection strategy through the CDP, a not-for-profit charity that runs the global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, state and regions to manage their environmental impacts.
In October 2020, Boom unveiled XB-1, the world’s first independently developed supersonic jet and a precursor to Overture. XB-1’s first flight will
be 100 per cent carbon-neutral and is slated to take place in 2021 in Mojave, California. “Boom is building a supersonic passenger aircraft that will
make travel faster and more sustainable,” said Harshul Sanghi, Global Head of Amex Ventures. “Travel has been a key part of American Express’ heritage and
it remains an integral part of our card members’ lifestyles. We are excited to support Boom’s development and invest in the future of travel.”
THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO SERVE YOU IN-STORE & ONLINE at FLIGHTCITY.CA
PRIVATE
SHOPPING EXPERIENCE!!
If you’re apprehensive about shopping in a public retail store, Flight City can accommodate with morning appointments for a Private Shopping Experience. You can have the store to yourself (plus staff) for 15 minutes. If you have young children, they can run around without worrying about proximity to other shoppers. Appointments are available: 10am, 10:15, 10:30, or 10:45, Monday thru Saturday. Just call the store (604-244-0140) or email info@flightcity.ca to book a time. Please note masks are required at all times in the store. Regular shopping hours continue to be 11am-5pm Monday thru Saturday.
WEBSITE OPEN 24/7 MORE PRODUCTS ADDED DAILY FOR ONLINE ORDERS: FLIGHTCITY.CA NOTE NEW HOURS: MONDAY – SATURDAY: 11am – 5pm • SUNDAY: CLOSED
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: • Peer, Teen and Sibling Support • Support Services • Education • Advocacy • Key Links and Resources • Financial Support • 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
www.flightcity.ca
105 – 6080 Russ Baker Way, Richmond BC V7B 1B4 EMAIL: flightcityyvr@gmail.com 604 244 0140 Mon-Sat 11am – 5pm, Sun CLOSED
facebook.com/flightcityvancouver
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United celebrates 95 years, announces new diversity goal for its pilot training academy Founded April 6, 1926, United Airlines is celebrating its 95th year anniversary. Measured by fleet size and number of routes, which span large and small cities across the U.S. and all six continents, United is the third largest airline in the world. The only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Aviate Academy, the airline has embarked on an ambitious plan to train 5,000 new pilots by 2030, at least half of them women and people of colour. Backed by scholarship commitments from United Airlines ($1.2 million) and JPMorgan Chase ($1.2 million), United Aviate Academy will provide opportunities for students to pursue their career choice as a commercial airline pilot, one of
the most lucrative careers in the industry. Graduates of the Aviate program will be guaranteed a job with United. In addition, for those United
What’s more fitting for an airline’s 95th birthday celebration than a cake with an airplane design?
Aviate Academy students who may need additional financing, United has partnered with Sallie Mae to offer private student loans to ensure that no highly qualified, highly motivated eligible applicants will be turned away solely because they can’t afford to enroll. United will leverage its long-standing relationships with a variety of organizations, including the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Sisters of the Skies, the Latino Pilots Association and the Professional Asian Pilots Association to help identify and steer highly qualified, diverse candidates to the United Aviate Academy. For more information, visit united.com, follow @United on Twitter and Instagram or connect on Facebook.
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:
n Car Accidents n General Pain & Soreness n Sports Injuries n Chiropractic n Physiotherapy n Naturopathic Medicine n Registered Massage Therapy n Active Rehab Visit the website for more details:
Purolator launches fully electric fleet at YVR
Purolator’s electric trucks and bikes are part of the courier company’s commitment to the use of innovative and sustainable technologies to reduce GHG emissions. Photo: courtesy Purolator.
Purolator has taken another significant step in greening its fleet with the arrival of fully electric, curbside-delivery trucks in Vancouver—the first to be launched nationally by a Canadian courier company. The Lower Mainland fleet of vehicles will be based at Purolator’s existing YVR facility, where the company dispatches up to 80 vehicles a day for curbside delivery. The new 18-foot electric delivery trucks and electric– cargo bikes (e-bikes) expand Purolator’s fleet of innovative eco-friendly vehicles already in use on the streets of Montreal and Toronto. Since the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic,
Purolator has seen residential deliveries grow by approximately 50 per cent, increasing the demand for transportation and courier services. In addition to reducing truck traffic and noise pollution, the new all-electric vehicles will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 24 metric tons per year (per vehicle). Purolator’s new electric delivery vehicles are built on Ford’s F-59 platform and electrified by Motiv Power Systems. Motiv’s Electric Power Intelligent Chassis (EPIC) is a market-leading platform for delivery vans. Purolator’s deployment of this technology marks Motiv’s first collaboration with a company in Canada.
www.baselinewellness.ca
202- 718 West Broadway,
Hope Air has a simple mission:
info@baselinewellness.ca
To provide free flights for Canadians who are in financial need and must travel to healthcare.
Vancouver
604 674 4027
Donate. Volunteer. Organize. Ask us how. We need your help.
www.hopeair.ca 1-877-346-4673
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)
B A R
&
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4760 Inglis Drive, Richmond BC Open Daily From 9am-10pm 604.273.0278
MJG.CA
www.skytalkonline.com
New MINI app
Digital companion for MINI owners, the new MINI App offers enhanced digital customer experience with a new look and functionality.
MINI Canada has launched a new app that provides customers with a new level of connectivity and digital services for their MINI vehicles. The app features a new design along with an intuitive, simplified user experience that offers updated features and information, including services for customers with electrified MINIs. The app, which runs on both iOS and android operating systems, supersedes the MINI Connected app, expanding the seamless integration of features to enhance the digital customer experience. The MINI app is available to be downloaded free of charge from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Features and highlights Remote access to vehicles status and functions: A univer-
sal interface to the vehicle, it displays information about the vehicle’s status and offers access to remote services, such as locking and unlocking the doors and locating the car via the “Vehicle Finder” button. Amazon Alexa Car Integration: It also provides integration with Amazon Alexa in vehicles from model year 2019 onwards with the ConnectedDrive Services (SA 6AK) optional equipment and the Connected Navigation Plus (SA 7GK) package. Once the app is linked to an Amazon account, the voice service can be activated with the touch of a button on the steering wheel and prompting “Alexa.” This makes it possible for customers to use voice control to play music, call up messages, control compatible smart home devices and access a wide range of functions via Amazon Alexa.
Smart services for electrified MINI owners: Services are available for the plugin hybrid MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 and the all-electric MINI Cooper SE, with an improved overview of electric range as well as charging status. Using the app’s Charge & Climate Timer Function, customers can optimize the charging process by defining specific time windows and departure times. In addition, the vehicle’s interior can be pre-conditioned (heating in winter or cooling in summer) to increase comfort. Navigation features on the go: Destinations are easy to find using the integrated search function and can be sent directly from the app to the vehicle’s navigation system. It is also possible to send destinations from thirdparty apps. The map shows the
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APRIL / MAY
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SKYTALK •
AutoTalk current traffic situation, fueling and charging stations, as well as parking facilities. The shortest way to MINI service: Depending on the preferences set, customers may receive notifications to the app when their vehicle requires service. They can then schedule a
service appointment with their MINI dealer through the app. MINI Roadside Assistance can also be reached via the app in the event support is needed. With authorization, service staff can see the location of the vehicle and its status for immediate over-theair assistance.
9
Crossword Solution for April / May 2021.
Courtesy of Mirroreyes Internet Services Corporation
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
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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SKYTALK
APRIL / MAY
City of Richmond News
Art columns display messages of hope, resilience and strength
Richmond artist Fanny Bok Yin Tang’s Crazy Yellow Daisy on display Courtesy City of Richmond. at an art columns on No. 3 Road.
The City of Richmond is featuring a six-month art exhibition in large, backlit display cases at the base of concrete columns located at the Aberdeen and Lansdowne Canada Line stations on No. 3 Road. This year’s first exhibition, which runs to August 14, 2021 showcases the work of Richmond artists Glen Anderson, Fanny Bok Yin Tang and Keely O’Brien, who have created work in response to the theme of Hope, Resilience and Strength. Glen Anderson is a longtime Richmond resident and artist based in Richmond’s Finn Slough heritage area. The Old Normal—a storyboard for simple pleasures is a photography-based panorama depicting a dark and mysterious place that seems to be lost in time. The current crisis is uniquely challenging for children, but as each generation navigates the compounding threats of its era, we can look to them to model resilience and adaptation: by enthusiastically getting outside. Fanny Bok Yin Tang is a Richmond-based painter. Her series of flower paintings captures life’s journey, surrounded by the earth’s ethereal beauty and glory and within a world that is undeniably separate from the one in which we are currently living. Isolation and uncertainty are present during the pandemic, but
we can still hope to grow strong and beautiful. Where flowers bloom, so does hope. Keely O’Brien is a visual artist and past Branscombe House Artist-In-Residence (2018). Dearest is a series of postcards that celebrate the kindness, interconnection and care that community members expressed for one another during a recent snail mail-based interactive art project in Richmond. Each message is both a record of an intimate correspondence between participants and a public wish extended to all passersby. This exhibition is part of the #RichmondHasHeart campaign, an initiative designed to bring the community, residents and businesses together to show their support for those working to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore new and meaningful ways to find connection, while maintaining physical distancing protocols. The semi-annual art column exhibitions are also part of the City’s commitment to enhance the No. 3 Road streetscape, in partnership with InTransit BC. The second part of this #RichmondHasHeart exhibition will run from August 15, 2021 to January 31, 2022. For more information about this project, visit richmond.ca/ culture/publicart/whatsnew/no3rdartcolumns.
2021
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CrossWord ACROSS 1 Takes off or removes 6 Bland 10 A small European freshwater fish 14 Useful 15 Overhang of a roof 16 Ancient Middle eastern kingdom 17 Buffalo 18 Dwarf buffalo 19 Not a single one 20 Setting an order of events 22 Knowing a secret (2 words) 23 S 24 Ran (slang) 26 Not after 30 Smudge 32 At the highest point 33 Stiff hair or bristle 35 Hurried 39 Shoot from a concealed position 41 A wooden pin 42 Absconded 43 Angelic headgear 44 Latin for “Flanks” 46 Actress ____ Lanchester 47 Gravy 49 Travelled on the back of a horse 51 A radioactive element 54 Insect 55 Assemble or modify written material 56 Fertilizes by bees or birds 63 Spore-producing structures 64 Concept 65 Model of excellence 66 Therefore 67 500 sheets of paper 68 Taut or rigid 69 Adolescent 70 Anagram of “Seen” 71 Ceased.
DOWN 1 Anagram of “Buds” 2 Relating to the ear 3 They swim in the ocean 4 Mass of floating sea ice 5 One who dispatches or transmits 6 Bargains 7 Hindu princess 8 A river in England 9 Hound dog 10 Belittled 11 In accompaniment 12 Small light boat 13 Make corrections to text 21 Purposes 25 Hearing organs 26 Hit hard 27 Sicilian volcano 28 A slender flexible sword 29 Resistance to a policy
30 An ancient upright inscribed stone slab 31 Wise men 34 Heroic 36 Chilly 37 Anagram of “Lees” 38 College administrator40 Jacob’s brother 45 Wild African sheep 48 Official at a baseball game 50 Cause to start burning 51 Adjust again 52 Love intensely 53 Lament 54 Attribute responsibility to 57 Lyric poems 58 Not fatty 59 City in Yemen 60 Take care of 61 Lack of difficulty 62 Sleigh.
Crossword solution on page 9
Name that Aircraft LAST MONTH’S WINNERS:
Wendy Wells Answer:
Send the correct name of this aircraft (make & model) and you could win a
Win a $25 Gift Certificate to
FLYING BEAVER BAR & GRILL
4760 Inglis Drive, Richmond, BC Keely O’Brien’s artwork is a series of postcards that celebrate interconnection and care between community members. Courtesy City of Richmond.
Mi-8 Helicopter
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 May 31, 2021. The winner’s name will be published in the June / July 2021 edition of SkyTalk and at skytalkonline.com.
The Mil Mi-8 is a medium twin-turbine helicopter, originally designed by the Soviet Union, and now produced by Russia. It is among the world’s mostproduced helicopters, used by more than 50 countries.
www.skytalkonline.com
Classified
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APRIL / MAY
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CONSUMER | COMMERCIAL
Tel: 604 736-6754 • E-mail: jstewart@westerndriver.com
COMMUNITY SERVICE
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22,000 Readers Every Month | $17.50 Per Col Inch
SERVICES
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
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, YOUR AIRPORT & SEA ISLAND COMMUNITY CONNECTION
B & B ACCOMMODATION ®
RICHMOND
MERCHANDISE
RETIR EMEN T!
Chestnut Tree Bed & Breakfast
Thank You
for supporting us over the years!
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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2021
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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