Toronto Pearson Soars High in Forbes’ Best Employers List

TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2025 /CNW/ – Toronto Pearson International Airport has once again achieved a remarkable milestone in Forbes’ annual ranking by being named one of Canada’s Best Employers for the second consecutive year. The airport climbed to a new personal best in this year’s rankings, securing an impressive 107th position overall and claiming second place among all Transportation and Logistics companies across Canada.

Impressive Performance and Recognition

Toronto Pearson’s leap of more than 100 spots from last year’s 210th position is a testament to its commitment to providing a superior workplace environment. The airport is the only one of its kind to be featured on Forbes’ prestigious list, underscoring its exceptional workplace culture and dedication to its employees. The remarkable performance was announced by Mark Carbonelli, Chief Human Resource Officer at Toronto Pearson, who expressed immense pride in the organization’s ongoing success.

Commitment to Employee Satisfaction

Mark Carbonelli commented, “Last year was a remarkable year of growth for the Toronto Pearson community. Receiving this achievement from Forbes for a second consecutive year and attaining this new personal best demonstrates our dedication to continuous improvement as an employer. This recognition reflects our commitment to listening to employee feedback and taking meaningful action, as well as our dedication to fostering an inclusive culture that attracts top talent. We want Toronto Pearson to be the chosen place to work and fly.”

Methodology Behind the Ranking

Forbes, in collaboration with market research firm Statista, created the annual ranking by surveying over 40,000 Canada-based employees. These participants were employed by organizations with a minimum of 500 employees within Canada. By ensuring all surveys were anonymous, the study facilitated an open sharing of opinions by the employees.

About Toronto Pearson Airport

• Toronto Pearson International Airport is operated by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority.
• It is Canada’s largest airport and plays a critical role in connecting people, businesses, and goods.
• It has been named “Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers” six times in the last seven years by Airports Council International (ACI).
• The airport continues to enhance its workplace culture, setting benchmarks for employee satisfaction and inclusivity.

This consistent recognition from Forbes not only highlights the excellence in employment practices at Toronto Pearson but also solidifies its reputation as a leader in the transportation and logistics sector in Canada. As the airport continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of being a preferred workplace and travel hub.

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Air Transat Pilots Kick Off Contract Negotiations

MONTREAL, QUE.—Air Transat pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), have formally begun negotiations for a new labor agreement. This move follows the issuance of the requisite notice to bargain, according to Section 49 of the Canada Labour Code, a significant development that marks the beginning of formal talks between the pilots and Air Transat management.

Background and Current Situation

The current collective agreement dates back to 2015, leaving many aspects outdated in light of industry advancements and economic shifts. With recent agreements secured by Air Canada and WestJet pilots, there is a clear precedent for updating employment terms to better reflect the current aviation landscape in Canada.

Capt. Bradley Small, Air Transat MEC chair, has made the pilot group’s stance unequivocally clear: “We have a collective agreement that dates back to 2015. We will negotiate a contract that reflects the current standard within Canada’s aviation sector, similar to those recently negotiated by Air Canada and WestJet.” He emphasized the unified front presented by the pilots, stating, “Our pilot group is united, and we want management to know that we are ready to fight for a contract that addresses the concerns of our pilots and brings stability to our airline.”

Key Negotiation Points

The pilots have identified several critical issues that they intend to address during these negotiations:

• Employment Protection: Ensuring job security amid industry fluctuations.
• Salary Conditions: Updating compensation to align with contemporary standards.
• Pilot Group Insurance: Securing better health and wellness benefits.
• Retirement Conditions: Advocating for improved terms and conditions to support pilots post-career.

These issues, as highlighted by Capt. Small, are crucial for aligning Air Transat’s terms with those of other major airlines in Canada. “Our pilots are united and ready to stand for a contract that delivers for us and secures the future of our airline. The message to management is simple: We won’t back down; it’s a matter of respect.”

About ALPA and Air Transat

Air Transat pilots play an essential role in the airline’s operations, ferrying over 2.5 million passengers each year to nearly 60 destinations across 30 countries. Established in 1931, the Air Line Pilots Association is the world’s largest airline pilot union, representing over 79,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines.

As these talks progress, all eyes are on Air Transat to see how the negotiations will impact both pilots and passengers. For updates on the negotiations and more aviation news, visit ALPA’s official website at ALPA.org.

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Expansion in Manitoba: Northway’s Strategic Acquisition

SASKATOON, SK, January 21, 2025 /CNW/ – Northway Aviation, a cornerstone in regional aviation for over six decades, has reinforced its commitment to serving Manitoba’s remote communities through a strategic acquisition of SkyNorth Air Ltd. This expansion follows the March 2024 investment by Westcap Mgt. Ltd., marking a significant leap forward in Northway’s service offerings.

Westcap Mgt. Ltd. acquired a majority ownership in Northway through its managed funds, namely Westcap MBO III Investment LP and the Connect Manitoba Growth Fund LP. The acquisition of SkyNorth is anticipated to enhance the essential air services Northway offers, and further cement valuable relationships with the indigenous and remote communities of Manitoba.

Comprehensive Services for Underserved Regions

Northway Aviation has long been lauded for its safety and reliability, operating 11,000 annual chartered passenger flights and freight services for over fifteen communities. The company’s fleet, comprising Cessna Caravans, Cessna Grand Caravans, and Pilatus PC-12s, is managed by a dedicated team of more than 80 skilled professional staff.

• Pauingassi
• Little Grand Rapids
• Poplar River
• Garden Hill
• Red Sucker Lake
• Deer Lake

SkyNorth brings to the table 20 years of specialized air ambulance services from their bases in Winnipeg, Thompson, and Garden Hill/Island Lake. It boasts a team of 65 professionals skilled in healthcare and aviation, operates eight fixed-wing aircraft, and strives to maintain top-tier safety standards.

Chris Mellen, President and CEO of Northway, expressed enthusiasm about this strategic move: “Our pivotal relationships with northern communities demanded a step of this magnitude. Westcap’s entry into our vision was a game-changer.”

Echoing this sentiment, Grant J. Kook, President and CEO of Westcap, stated, “Bringing together two committed teams and their resources promises enhanced service delivery and operational efficiencies. We are excited about the growth prospects this merge brings.”

With over 25 years of expertise, Westcap Mgt. Ltd. is a recognized leader in private equity and venture capital, managing over $1 billion in assets. Their focus is on fostering long-term investor value through partnerships with visionary management teams.

About Northway Aviation LP

Since 1962, Northway Aviation has been a trusted provider of air services to eastern Manitoba and western Ontario’s hard-to-reach communities. Its legacy of serving First Nations communities underscores their commitment to building enduring, mutually beneficial relationships.

For more information, visit westcapmgt.ca and northwayav.com.

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WestJet Expands Summer Flight Options from Calgary to New York LaGuardia

CALGARY, AB — WestJet has announced an exciting addition to its flight schedule for the summer of 2025, launching seasonal service between Calgary International Airport and New York LaGuardia Airport. This expansion comes in response to escalating travel demand and strengthens WestJet’s commitment to servicing North American leisure travelers.

Increased Connectivity to the Empire State

The new route complements the existing year-round service between Calgary and New York John F. Kennedy International Airport. This move is a significant step in bolstering non-stop travel capacity between Alberta’s vibrant city and the heart of New York, offering diverse options for travelers heading to the Big Apple.

Vice-President of Network and Schedule Planning at WestJet, Daniel Fajardo, stated, “The appetite for flights to New York remains robust, whether it’s to experience the city’s iconic Broadway shows, enjoy a Yankees game, or explore the diverse attractions like Central Park. The addition of this route enhances our ability to meet this demand and provide guests with more flexibility and choice.”

Flight Schedule and Availability

Travelers can look forward to this new route starting May 24 through August 30, 2025. Tickets for this weekly service are available for purchase beginning January 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. MST. The details are as follows:

• Calgary to New York LaGuardia: Departs at 8:15 a.m., arrives at 3:05 p.m.
• New York LaGuardia to Calgary: Departs at 4:00 p.m., arrives at 7:35 p.m.

For complete schedule details, potential travelers are encouraged to visit WestJet’s official site at WestJet Direct Flights.

About WestJet’s Legacy

In its 27th year, WestJet continues to shape Canadian aviation by reducing airfares and contributing to a substantial increase in the country’s flying population. From its humble beginnings in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees, and five destinations, WestJet has grown into a major airliner with more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees, and over 100 destinations across 26 countries.

For more comprehensive information about WestJet’s services, visit westjet.com.

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Hong Kong Airlines Celebrates the Relaunch of Direct Flights to Vancouver

HONG KONG, Jan. 20, 2025 /CNW/ — Hong Kong Airlines has successfully resumed its direct flight services to Vancouver, Canada, as of January 18th. Celebrations were held both at Hong Kong International Airport and Vancouver International Airport to mark this significant relaunch, which had been previously halted due to the pandemic.

Ceremonial Engagements

Prior to the inaugural flight’s departure, senior management from Hong Kong Airlines and the Airport Authority Hong Kong gathered for a special ceremony at the boarding gate. As part of the occasion, they interacted with passengers embarking on the first flight and distributed bespoke souvenirs to commemorate the flight reinstatement.

Statements from Hong Kong Airlines Leadership

Hong Kong Airlines Chairman Mr. Yan Bo expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed service to Vancouver, stating, “We are delighted to reinstate the Vancouver service, which was our first North American destination launched back in June 2017. The resumption marks not just a return to the North American market, but also underscores the progress of our strategic transformation towards becoming a larger international airline.”

The commitment to enhancing passenger experiences has also been emphasized with curated Hong Kong-style in-flight meals available for this route. Options include a variety of Chinese, Western, and vegetarian dishes catered to both business and economy-class passengers.

Enhanced Passenger Experience

Hong Kong Airlines President Mr. Jeff Sun highlighted that the Hong Kong-Vancouver route will be served using the Airbus A330-300 aircraft, providing passengers with a top-tier long-haul flying experience. “Passengers both in Hong Kong and Canada can expect our attentive service and delightful meals, which truly reflect our customer-centric approach,” he noted. “Our vision of becoming a leading full-service airline internationally drives our commitment to serve passengers in North America and beyond.”

Fleet and Network Expansion

• Strategic route network optimization has seen Hong Kong Airlines reach around 30 destinations.
• Flight numbers have fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels with an average passenger load factor of approximately 85%.
• Over 5 million passengers were carried in the past year.

With plans to further expand the fleet, Hong Kong Airlines aims to enhance operational flexibility, offering access to popular destinations including mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and broader regions such as Australia, the United States, and Europe.

The flight schedule between Hong Kong and Vancouver includes regular trips on Tuesdays, Saturdays, Wednesdays, and Sundays with convenient departure and arrival timings, ensuring passengers can plan their travels efficiently.

For more details, visit the airline’s website at hongkongairlines.com.

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WestJet Expands Connections Between Calgary and Mexico City

WestJet is set to enhance its network of routes by introducing a new non-stop service between Calgary and Mexico City International Airport (MEX). This exciting new connection will commence on May 14, 2025, with the airline operating five weekly flights, further affirming its leadership in connecting Canada and Mexico. Such expansion reinforces Calgary’s position as a key hub within WestJet’s global network.

Strengthening Economic and Cultural Links

According to Daniel Fajardo, Vice-President of Network and Schedule Planning at WestJet, the airline’s continuous investment in popular sun destinations has made it a critical gateway between Canada and Mexico. He emphasized that the new service will facilitate Western Canadians in exploring Mexico’s vibrant culture and history while enhancing trade and tourism across North America.

Strategic Business Opportunities

The reintroduction of the service between Calgary and Mexico City, last offered in 2018, represents a significant development for Alberta’s business community. This connection allows greater access to one of North America’s largest consumer markets and enhances the potential for trade. Small businesses and exporters in Western Canada will also benefit from the increased cargo capacity this route offers.

Expanded Mexican Connections

With the new addition of Mexico City to its roster, the WestJet Group, including Sunwing Airlines, will serve 13 cities in Mexico from 24 Canadian cities by 2025. The group plans to continue offering more non-stop routes between the two countries than any other Canadian operator, reaching over 200 flights per week during peak travel periods. In 2024, WestJet served over 2.6 million guests traveling between Canada and Mexico.

Codeshare Opportunities with Aeromexico

WestJet’s long-standing codeshare partnership with Aeromexico offers guests enhanced access to a range of Mexican destinations. From Calgary, travelers can seamlessly connect through Mexico City to cities such as Chihuahua, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Merida, and Monterrey. This partnership ensures a convenient single check-in experience while expanding WestJet’s reach within Mexican regions.

Community and Industry Reactions

Joseph Schow, Alberta’s Minister of Tourism and Sport, expressed his support for the new route, emphasizing that enhanced connectivity is vital for growing Alberta’s visitor economy. Mario Morales, Consul of Mexico in Calgary, hailed the new service as a positive step in strengthening cultural, tourism, and economic ties between the two nations.

Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO of Tourism Calgary, highlighted the potential for increased two-way visitation, benefiting both leisure and business travel. Meanwhile, Chris Dinsdale, President & CEO of YYC Calgary International Airport, lauded the strategic significance of this new link to Calgary’s role as a global hub.

For more on WestJet’s offerings, please visit westjet.com.

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Flair Airlines Celebrates a Successful 2024 Holiday Season

EDMONTON, Alberta, January 7, 2025 – Flair Airlines, renowned for being Canada’s most affordable airline, wrapped up 2024 with outstanding achievements. Securing a remarkable flight completion rate of 98.7%, Flair has emerged as the nation’s most reliable airline, outperforming competitors such as WestJet, Porter Airlines, and Air Canada.

Exceptional Performance Amidst Winter Challenges

The holiday season, historically a tough period for air travel due to unpredictable winter weather, saw Flair Airlines achieving their highest completion factor. Maciej Wilk, Interim CEO at Flair, expressed his pride in the achievement, “We delivered one of our best performances in years by achieving 98.7% flight completion amidst the challenging winter conditions.”

These efforts ensured that 356,967 passengers reached their holiday destinations, making Flair the preferred choice for Canadians traveling for family reunions, vacations, and holiday getaways.

Commitment to Reliability and On-Time Performance

Although Flair’s December On-Time Performance (OTP) stood at 60.3%, it is important to highlight that 90% of flights arrived within an hour of their scheduled time. This aligns with the airline’s recently launched On-Time Guarantee promise. Wilk noted that Flair’s dedicated team worked tirelessly to minimize delays and uphold their reliability, even in the face of severe Canadian winter conditions.

Flair’s completion rate and OTP positioned the airline competitively, outpacing Porter while being close rivals to industry heavyweights Air Canada and WestJet.

Leading in Sustainable Aviation

Flair Airlines is at the forefront of sustainable aviation in Canada, with a CO2 emission rate of 89.56 grams per revenue passenger mile (g/RPM). This achievement is attributed to their optimized network and operations, making Flair Canada’s greenest airline.

The airline flew at a robust 87.3% Load Factor, ensuring efficient and environmentally friendly travel for holiday passengers.

A Promising Outlook for 2025

As Flair looks towards 2025, they remain committed to offering reliable, affordable, and sustainable travel options. Their expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft is set to connect more Canadians to destinations across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. Flair Airlines continues to grow, serving over 35 cities and helping Canadians create even more cherished memories.

About Flair Airlines

Flair Airlines is synonymous with affordability and reliability in Canadian air travel. As an industry leader in sustainability, Flair is dedicated to connecting Canadians with experiences and people they cherish. For further information, visit www.flyflair.com.

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JetBlue’s New Connection: Highlighting Halifax and Boston

Halifax Stanfield International Airport is preparing for a significant enhancement in its travel offerings. Beginning in June 2025, JetBlue Airways will introduce a new seasonal route, marking its second Canadian expansion. This route will offer daily non-stop flights between Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Boston, Massachusetts. This development promises to make travel between these two dynamic coastal cities more convenient, appealing to both leisure and business travellers.

A Game-Changing Route

Enhancing Connectivity and Service Quality

This partnership highlights JetBlue’s commitment to providing top-tier service and affordable fares. By utilizing their advanced A220 aircraft, which seats 140 passengers, the airline guarantees both comfort and eco-efficiency.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome JetBlue to Halifax Stanfield,” declared Joyce Carter, President & CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority. The introduction of this new route underscores Halifax’s increasing attractiveness as a pivotal destination and Canadian hub for international travellers.

Economic and Cultural Impacts

Boosting Tourism and Business

Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Growth and Development for Nova Scotia, acknowledged the route’s potential: “Daily summer flights will only strengthen our connection and showcase all Nova Scotia has to offer.”

Seamless Travel Experience

JetBlue’s broad network is further complemented by its partnership with Porter Airlines, allowing passengers to easily book connecting flights across both airlines’ coverage. David Jehn, vice president of network planning and airline partnerships at JetBlue, expressed excitement for the new route, highlighting the opportunities it presents for both New England and Canadian travellers.

Flight Schedule Details

JetBlue Halifax – Boston Route Schedule

As travel enthusiasts mark their calendars, tickets are now available for booking at jetblue.com. With this expansion, both Halifax and Boston anticipate a fruitful summer season of travel, collaboration, and exploration.

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NAV CANADA Reports 3.4% Increase in December 2024 Air Traffic

OTTAWA, ON, January 15, 2025 — The latest air traffic figures released by NAV CANADA reveal a positive upswing in aviation movement across Canadian airspace. In December 2024, the company registered a 3.4 percent increase in traffic, measured in weighted charging units, compared to the same period in 2023. This growth is indicative of a continued recovery and expansion in the aviation sector.

Understanding Weighted Charging Units

Weighted charging units serve as a critical metric for NAV CANADA. They encompass the number of billable flights, aircraft size, and the distance flown within Canadian airspace. These units are pivotal as they form the basis for calculating movement-based service charges, which account for a significant portion of the company’s air traffic revenue.

• Billable Flights: Reflects the number of flights that are charged for air navigation services.
• Aircraft Size: Larger aircraft contribute more to the total weight of charging units.
• Distance Flown: The longer the distance covered in Canadian airspace, the greater the contribution to weighted charging units.

NAV CANADA’s Role and Achievements

Established in 1996, NAV CANADA is a private, not-for-profit organization tasked with providing vital air navigation services. These include air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings, and aeronautical information services, covering an extensive 18 million square kilometers of Canadian domestic and international airspace. The company is celebrated for its avant-garde technology solutions and exemplary safety standards, earning international recognition for its contributions to airspace management.

• Air Traffic Control: Overseeing and managing aircraft movements within designated airspace.
• Airport Advisory Services: Offering critical information and assistance to pilots at more remote airports.
• Weather Briefings: Providing detailed meteorological reports essential for flight planning and safety.
• Aeronautical Information Services: Supplying crucial data and updates on airspace and flight procedures.

Looking Ahead

The reported increase in traffic during December aligns with a broader trend of recovery in the aviation sector, following the global disruptions caused by the pandemic. As air travel demand continues to rise, NAV CANADA’s investment in innovative technology and its commitment to safety are expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating seamless and secure air travel. This increase not only signifies a rebound in the aviation sector but also highlights the resilience of Canada’s air navigation systems in adapting to evolving demands.

Given this trajectory, NAV CANADA remains poised to further optimize air traffic management practices, ensuring it continues to uphold its position as a leader in the global air navigation services sector.

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Air Canada Celebrated as Top Employer for Young Canadians in 2025

Montreal, Jan. 21, 2025 — For the second consecutive year, Air Canada has been honored as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People in 2025 by Mediacorp. This prestigious award underscores Air Canada’s dedication to fostering a workplace culture that not only supports young professionals but also positions them as future industry leaders. The recognition speaks volumes about the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent.

Expanding Opportunities for Young Talent

Air Canada offers a comprehensive range of paid internship programs across various disciplines, complemented by numerous professional development opportunities. Young professionals can take advantage of a myriad of online learning videos designed to hone their skills and enhance their careers. The airline’s initiatives reflect its understanding of the importance of continuous learning and career advancement.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People again this year.” said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs at Air Canada. “This award fills us with immense pride. We aim to offer a work environment and learning opportunities where everybody can thrive and become a future leader in this dynamic industry.”

Understanding the Top Employer Awards

The Canada’s Top 100 Employers project evaluates every nominee based on a range of criteria, specifically aimed at understanding how young employees are supported. These criteria include:

• Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer financial assistance for further studies.
• Co-op or Work-study Programs: Opportunities that provide students with the chance to earn credit while gaining experience.
• Mentorship and Training Programs: Comprehensive programs designed to enhance skills and career growth.
• Career Management Programs: Systems that help young employees advance more quickly within the organization.

These elements collectively demonstrate how Air Canada stands out as a leader in offering robust career-building opportunities for the younger workforce.

About Air Canada

As Canada’s largest airline and the country’s flag carrier, Air Canada offers an extensive array of services. The airline is a founding member of the Star Alliance network and provides scheduled services to more than 180 airports worldwide. With a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax, Air Canada remains at the forefront of the aviation industry. Its Aeroplan program further enhances customer experience by providing numerous ways to earn and redeem points. Moreover, Air Canada’s sustainable ambitions include achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

For those eager to elevate their careers with Air Canada, opportunities can be explored here.

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