PRINCE GEORGE AIRPORT AUTHORITY COVID-19: UPDATE THREE

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Prince George, BC – The Prince George Airport (YXS) remains open despite a drop in flights. Air Canada and WestJet continue to operate flights to Vancouver numerous times per week for essential travel, while Central Mountain Air and Pacific Coastal Airlines have ceased operations until June. Flight schedules change on a frequent basis, so those needing to book are reminded to check airline websites for the most up to date information.

“We will do our part to get through this as quickly and safely as possible. When it’s time for recovery, we will be here for our community” says President and CEO of the Prince George Airport Authority (PGAA), Gordon Duke. “Air travel will play a major role in helping rebuild our regional economy, whether it’s a family vacation, a successful business trip, or bringing distant friends and relatives together. We will continue to enable jobs and economic growth for our region.”

Passenger numbers in March were down 44% compared to the same month last year.  In 2019, 44,817 passengers flew in and out of YXS in March, compared to 24,964 last month. The PGAA expects to see a massive dip in passenger numbers for April as travel restrictions were in place for the entire month.

As a not-for-profit corporation, the PGAA relies heavily on revenues from flights and passenger traffic, and both have been reduced severely. We are working closely with federal, provincial and municipal governments to ensure the continued viability of our airport during this unparalleled downturn.

As British Columbia’s major northern airport, maintaining strong air service connectivity is vital for our region and the many communities we serve. Air cargo continues to be a vital service that supports critical supply chains for medical, food, pharmacy and other essential supplies. YXS also handles numerous medevac flights each day to support emergency health situations in remote areas.

A reminder to those travelling by air, non medical grade face coverings are now mandatory as per Transport Canada. In terms of the terminal, the restaurant and internationals area remain closed and short-term parking is free as long as you stay with your vehicle.