HawkAir Announces Third Dash 8

June 10, 2002

Northwest BC's own airline is pleased to announce the purchase of a third Dash 8 aircraft, scheduled to begin service Aug 04,2002.

Hawkair partner Dave Menzies says the additional airplane will be used to increase service to the northern communities of Prince Rupert, Terrace-Kitimat, and Smithers. "We're basically doubling the flights for Rupert and Smithers. And Terrace gets an extra flight on an extra-busy day." Both Prince Rupert and Smithers will have two departures on weekdays, while Terrace gets a third flight on Fridays.

Smithers retains its early morning departure and evening arrival flights, popular with local residents, and gets an additional midday arrival/departure. Smithers Base Manager Sandra Heeley says, "There's a definite demand for mid-day. It's ideal for those who need to travel a few hours before they get to an airport." She says customers in Houston, Hazelton, Burns Lake and further afield are looking forward to the convenience of the extra choices in flight times.

Prince Rupert's dedicated plane will be based in Vancouver to serve Digby Island. The new early morning arrival in Rupert and an evening departure to Vancouver will be provided in response to customer requests, particularly business travellers. An already popular midday schedule will also be offered.

The third plane also allows for an expanded service to Hawkair's premier destination, the Terrace-Kitimat Airport. Partner Rod Hayward says, "Fridays in and out of Terrace can be very busy. Those flights are often completely full. It's a good problem to have." Hayward says operating a third Dash 8 makes it possible to add to Terrace's twice-daily schedule with more flights for the weekend rush.

The plane is being readied for transfer, with comprehensive inspections, exterior paint, and a refurbished interior. It is scheduled to arrive from Toronto in mid-July.

Hawkair employs over 80 people, at bases in Terrace-Kitimat, Vancouver's South Terminal, Prince Rupert, and Smithers. Their 37-seat Dash 8s are based at their headquarters in Terrace, BC as well as Smithers and Vancouver.

Fares start at $179 one way, taxes and fees included. Hawkair continues to pay Travel Agents commissions for their work in retail sales.

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