Your Saint John Airport

YSJ 10K

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:40:49 -0500

Start your training - the YSJ 10K (plus 5K and Kids Fun Run) is scheduled for Saturday, May 5!

Close to 200 people have already registered - register now at atlanticchip.ca This event will sell out (as it did last year).

The Kids Fun Run starts at 8:15, followed by the 5K and 10K race at 9:30.

Sunwing adds New Brunswick March Break Flights

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:52:50 -0500

Sunwing Airlines has added New Brunswick March Break Vacations to its Winter 2012 schedule! One Week All-Inclusive vacation packages to Varadero include 3-star plus resorts at $795! There are over 40 resorts to choose from - contact your local travel agent to help you choose - or visit sunwing.ca and select "Saint John" as your departure city.

Book your vacation leaving from Saint John Airport! Check out sunwing.ca for dates and destinations!

One example: Brisas Del Caribe 3-star plus, March 6 Departure from Saint John $795!

March Break vacations, (and the rest of the winter), are now more affordable and easier - departing directly from Your SAINT JOHN Airport.

The 2012 schedule is as follows:

Tuesday: departures to Cuba beginning March 6

Friday: departures to Cuba beginning March 16

Saturday: departures to Mexico beginning March 17

Early-Bird Mexico departure Friday, March 9!

Air Canada introduces Q400 Aircraft

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:49:07 -0500

This month Air Canada introduces its new Q400 aircraft servicing Saint John to Toronto. The new Q400 aircraft is good news for Saint John.

Benefits of the Q400 aircraft for Saint John include:

More spacious and comfortable (and very quiet)
More capacity in and out of Saint John on each aircraft
The economics of flying the Q400 (50% fuel savings versus regional jet) help to sustain service to smaller market locations such as Saint John.

The Q400 is a great aircraft for our size market – It increases capacity on Toronto flights with an additional 68 seats per day!

Help us attract Porter Airlines to YSJ!

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:03:39 -0500

We invite you to join the Free Porter VIP Program.

Members receive special Porter updates, promotions and can participate in destination surveys.

Make sure to indicate “We Want Saint John”!

Click here to join the Free Porter VIP Program

You can also send a letter to Mr. Robert Deluce, President of Porter Airlines, and indicate your support for Saint John Airport (YSJ).

Porter Airlines
Attention: Mr. Robert Deluce
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5V 1A1

Board of Trade / Chamber of Commerce Mixer a great Success

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:36:48 -0500

Close to 200 people attended a business mixer at the airport. Various Chambers in the region including St. Stephen, Kennebecasis Valley and Saint John joined in to promote their services and get to know attendees. A lucky Rogers employee walked away with the grand prize: 2 tickets anywhere Air Canada flies in North America!

New Board Member at YSJ

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:57:11 -0400

(Saint John, NB – Friday, September 16, 2011) The Chair of the Saint John Airport Board of Directors, Wayne Power, announced today that a new member has joined the board. Norma Eaton, owner of Relish Gourmet Burgers and Rocky's Sports Bar, has been appointed by the Province of New Brunswick.

Norma Eaton began her career in the hospitality industry, and most recently operates a restaurant and sports bar in the city’s uptown district.

“The Saint John Airport has identified key priorities, and we look forward to Norma bringing a perspective that will contribute to meeting the challenges that face us,” stated Wayne Power, Chair of the Board of Directors.

The twelve member Board of Directors at the Saint John Airport is composed of the following individuals:

Wayne Power, Chair, nominated by the City of Saint John

Philip Reeves, Vice-Chair, nominated by the regional mayor’s caucus

Douglas Gaudett, nominated by Enterprise Charlotte

Ron Oldfield, nominated by Saint John & District Labour Council

Gary Rent, nominated by Enterprise Fundy

Jamie Irving, nominated by the Saint John Board of Trade

Christopher Waldschutz, nominated by Transport Canada

Norma Eaton, nominated by Province of New Brunswick

Kathleen MacDonald, nominated by City of Saint John

Troy Northrup, nominated by Enterprise Saint John

Owen Green, nominated by Saint John Airport Inc.

Norman McFarlane, nominated by Transport Canada

Saint John Airport Inc. is governed by a twelve member Board of Directors with a mandate to serve air travel needs of southwestern New Brunswick, and is part of the economic and social development of this region.

The 300,000 residents in the catchment area spanning St. Stephen to Sussex benefit from the airport’s economic impact estimated at $66 million, and the over 570 jobs created directly and indirectly. All revenue of the Saint John Airport is reinvested in operations and facilities on-site. No infrastructure funding from any level of government has been received since its transfer in 1999.

- XXX-

For further information, contact:

Wayne Power, Chair, Board of Directors

power.wayne@jdirving.com 633.5353

Bernard LeBlanc, President & CEO

bleblanc@sjairport.ca 638.5558

YSJ Open House August 24, 2011

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 14:03:16 -0400

The Saint John Airport is pleased to offer a FREE Community Day Event.

Beginning at 3:00 p.m. join us for exciting vintage aircraft, flight simulation displays, remote controlled aircraft, historical exhibits, and even scenic flights over Saint John!

The Atlantic Flight Centre will be open for tours and information about flying. An on-site BBQ will also be available until 7:00 p.m.

Saint John Airport Meet and Greet Program - Call for Volunteers

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:21:41 -0400

(Saint John, NB – June 2, 2011) The Meet and Greet program at the Saint John Airport has begun again for the 2011 season. Visitors to the Greater Saint John area arriving via the Saint John airport are greeted by friendly, helpful volunteers dressed in cheerful red vests. The Meet and Greet program has proved popular over the years and is indicative of the hospitality available across the region.

Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Saint John Airport announced today that additional volunteers are welcome. “Our Meet and Greet program is a hit with tourists arriving at the airport, and is also a social activity for volunteers. The committee is issuing a call to anyone who is interested in being part of this social activity.”

Volunteers indicate which flights they are interested in greeting, typically volunteering for two hours, one day a week. Volunteers are able to choose which days of the week suits their schedule and are able to select the time of day they prefer.

Anyone interested in further details is encouraged to contact Colleen Mitchell at 506.638.5584 or by email at cmitchell@saintjohnairport.com. “The volunteers enjoy the social outing and have become a very close group. They are interested in adding new people and expanding the network,” explained Ms. Mitchell.

Expenses for volunteers such as parking, coffee, vests, and other incidentals are covered by the Airport. Meet and Greeters offer tourism information, answer questions about the region, and hand out small gifts to arriving passengers.

The Saint John Airport has over 225,000 people per year fly through the airport, and serves as the first impression of the community for many of these travelers.

YSJ Wins Award

Fri, 27 May 2011 10:40:23 -0400

- News Release -

Saint John Airport Receives Tourism Award

(Saint John, NB – May 27, 2011) Officials at the Saint John Airport were presented with a tourism award for new initiatives in tourism last evening. The Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick (TIANB) recognized the Airport for its steps to implement new training programs, investing in professional development and its commitment to service excellence.

The TIANB award for new initiatives in tourism was presented at the Pioneer Gala Award Banquet in Miramichi. The celebrations and recognition awards were part of an annual tourism conference.

Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Saint John Airport, acknowledged the importance of training when dealing with the public. “The front-line personnel at the airport have an opportunity to make a lasting impression on tourists. Our efforts, in conjunction with TIANB’s Super Host program, have helped to create a friendly, helpful environment at the airport.”

The Super Host program provides training to taxi drivers and other personnel who have direct contact with tourists. Each individual attends training specific to dealing with the public and receives a certificate upon completion of the content.

The Saint John Airport has over 225,000 people per year fly through the airport, and serves as the first impression of the community for many of these travelers.

Bernie LeBlanc, CEO of the Saint John Airport, understands the connection between well trained personnel, tourism and its positive effects on the community. “We are building relationships with stakeholder groups in the communities we serve. The airport is a vital tourism, economic and social link that supports the entire Southern New Brunswick region. Together we can leverage the benefits of having an airport located close to home.”

- XXX-

For further information, contact:

Colleen Mitchell, cmitchell@sjairport.ca 506.638.5584

Book a flight to Toronto Island at competitive prices

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:38:46 -0500

Travellers can now book flights from Saint John to Toronto Island (Billy Bishop Airport) with competitive pricing and great timing options. Click here for details on flights from Saint John to Downtown Toronto. YSJ Flights to Toronto Island Airport are as low as $140!

Saint John Airport Announces Year-Over-Year Growth

Mon, 09 May 2011 17:08:59 -0400

(Saint John, NB – May 4, 2011) Officials at the Saint John Airport announced year-over-year growth as part of its Annual General Meeting held today. Despite a year of slow economic growth, the airport recorded overall growth of 2.2%, while international traffic reached its highest ever, with a 56% increase over 2009.

Over 227,000 passengers travelled through the Saint John Airport during 2010. Both airlines serving the Saint John Airport, Air Canada and Sunwing, experienced increased traffic.

During the AGM, Bernard LeBlanc, President and CEO, presented highlights of 2010. “Sunwing vacations proved very popular, and steady traffic on Jazz helped to put us over the top.”

In addition to an increase in passenger traffic, other 2010 highlights included completion of a Master Plan and Strategic Plan that sets the course for the next 20 years. “Our efforts during 2010 laid the groundwork for our direction over the coming decades. We have adopted a strategy and will work hard to see it come to life,” stated Mr. LeBlanc.

“We saw positive growth in passenger traffic and are working to increase passenger traffic further. We are also building relationships with stakeholder groups in the communities we serve,” continued Mr. LeBlanc. “The airport is a vital economic and social link that supports the entire Southern New Brunswick region. Together we can leverage the benefits of having an airport located close to home.”

Saint John Airport Inc. is a local, not-for-profit company governed by a twelve member Board of Directors nominated by government and community organizations.

The complete Annual Report is available on the Saint John Airport Website at: saintjohnairport.com.

- XXX-

For further information, contact:
Bernard LeBlanc, President and CEO bleblanc@sjairport.ca 506.638.5558

Sunwing flights will resume in 2012

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:15:39 -0500

Get away to Varadero and Cancun from your Saint John Airport! Weekly parking is only $55 including tax! Check Sunwing.ca for 1 week, all inclusive vacations, direct from Saint John!!

Sunwing Flights to Sunny Destinations Continue

Mon, 09 May 2011 17:18:17 -0400

Fun in the Sun with Sunwing - Flights Continue!

Get away to Varadero and Cancun from your Saint John Airport!

HOT DEALS to Mexico and Cuba continue until May 17, 2011. Sunwing flights have proved very popular this season with year over year increases. Check Sunwing.ca for one-week, all inclusive vacations, direct from Saint John!!

Click Here for the complete schedule.

In addition, weekly parking at the airport is only $55 - including tax!

Support for Runway Run Tremendous

Mon, 09 May 2011 17:12:05 -0400

Saturday, May 14 will see hundreds of runners, walkers and supporters gather at the Saint John Airport for the first YSJ 10K.

The fun begins at 8:00 a.m. with the start of the 1.5K Kids Fun Run. All entry fees are being donated to Mindcare New Brunswick.

Following the Kids Fun Run is a 10K running race, and a 5K race. Both of these races have sold out, however spectators and supporters are welcome to watch the event and cheer on the runners.

Winter getaways begin at YSJ

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 12:00:28 -0500

- News Release -

Winter getaways begin at Saint John Airport

(Saint John, NB – March 10, 2011) Officials at the Saint John Airport have received confirmation of the 2011 flight schedule for Sunwing departures from Saint John Airport for Varadero, Cuba and Cancun, Mexico. The schedule includes three flights per week, beginning Friday, March 18.

Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications, stated today, “Sunwing vacations have proved very popular this year. Friday departures for Varadero, Cuba are extremely popular, allowing people to leave after a full week of work and return on a weekend. In addition, Sunwing is about to announce special pricing to Cancun, Mexico which are expected to be snapped up rather quickly.”

The winter weather in and around Saint John has been brutal, which may have led to an increase in local traffic. All-inclusive winter vacations have remained competitively priced, providing an added incentive to those seeking an escape from the ice and snow. For those who are interested in booking flights departing from Saint John, some flights do have seats available.

“Sunwing offers a broad range of air/hotel and all-inclusive packages –good news for people who are booking now for travel this month and next. Many flights are sold out, however some availability does exist – and as an added bonus – are going on sale this weekend with some packages discounted by 50%,” confided Colleen Mitchell. “Beginning your vacation so close to home is a huge advantage for Saint John travelers. The short distance means vacations start sooner,”

These specials allow travelers to get away from our winter weather. For price-sensitive travelers, Sunwing has fantastic deals on three-star to five-star resorts. Resort options extend to five star locations, for those interested in ultimate luxury, such as Breezes by SuperClubs, RIU, Iberostar, Melia and Sandals, among others.

Sun destinations for Sunwing vacation destinations departing from the Saint John Airport include vacations to Varadero and Havana, Cuba plus Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico. The departure schedule includes three dates per week: Friday, Sunday and Tuesday, providing flexibility for travelers.

Sunwing vacation packages can be booked through local area travel agents or through the website Sunwing.ca.

- XXX-

For further information, contact:
Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications

638.5584

Full-body Scanner Arrives

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:31:21 -0500

Full-body Scanner Arrives at Saint John Airport

(Saint John, NB - Monday, February 28, 2011) Security officials at the Saint John Airport will be utilizing a full-body scanner starting in March for secondary searches of airline passengers. Carry-on baggage x-ray machines are also being upgraded to state-of-the-art models, which will result in faster processing, increased safety and a more efficient process.

Angela McLean, Manager of Regulatory Affairs, stated today, “Equipment changes currently being installed will lead to improved efficiency and effectiveness of the passenger screening process. A full-body scanner at our airport, in addition to new x-ray technology for carry-on items, will result in a reduction in delays, and faster processing of security procedures. This is a win-win for both safety and passengers.”

The body scanners operate on a technology called Millimetre Wave, which essentially takes a picture of a passenger that looks like an x-ray image showing items that an individual could be hiding. It is not an X-ray machine, nor does it save images.

The new scanner is used in the event that a Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) screener requests a secondary search for a passenger. Passengers then have the option of a body scan or physical body search (“pat-down”).

A secondary search involves a passenger passing through a stand-up probe. The imaging machine sends a three-dimensional image to a computer screen in an adjacent area, where trained professionals may detect hidden weapons or incendiary devices.

The machine costs in the vicinity of $250,000 and was tested in a pilot project by CATSA three years ago in Kelowna, B.C. “Initial feedback to CATSA officials at other airports indicates that in excess of 90% of passengers opt for the scanner rather than a pat-down physical search,” said McLean. “A scanner is less intrusive, more effective, faster, more convenient for passengers, and makes the screeners’ job easier as well.”

Saint John Airport chief executive officer Bernie LeBlanc said he and other airport staff are pleased to receive the new security equipment. This technology and equipment complies with American security procedures and positions the airport for USA bound flights.

“Scanners are being introduced at major airports, and we are pleased to offer this convenience to Saint John passengers,” he said. “We see providing an alternative to a physical pat-down search as a positive step for the airport, and adheres to Canadian as well as USA-compliant security procedures.”

- XXX-

For further information, refer to backgrounder below, or contact:
Angela McLean, Manager of Regulatory Affairs, Saint John Airport Inc. 506.638.5555

DND Exercise to take place this weekend

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:42:45 -0500

The Department of National Defence will conduct a training exercise this weekend at the Saint John Airport.

Based in Saint John, the 722 Communications Squadron Reserve Unit will conduct a communications exercise Saturday and Sunday at various locations across the city, including at the Saint John Airport. This is to prepare and train personnel in winter conditions. A further training exercise will take place in Northern Canada later this year.

Further information is available from Sgt. Furey at 637.7823

Saint John Airport Traffic Grows

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:51:27 -0500

The Saint John Airport announced preliminary results today that its overall 2010 traffic increased over 2009 despite a year of slow growth in the economy.

Over 227,000 passengers travelled through the Saint John Airport during 2010, which equates to a 2.2% increase over the prior year. Both airlines serving Saint John Airport, Air Canada and Sunwing, experieinced increased traffic.

Further details are expected to be released shortly.

Air Canada Seat Sale

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:09:03 -0500

Huge New YEar SAvings from YSJ!

Air Canada has placed the world on sale. Travellers booking from Saint John Airport (YSJ) can enjoy fares like these:

Saint John (YSJ) to Toronto:  $119

Saint John (YSJ) to Calgary or Edmonton: $205

Saint John (YSJ) to Vancouver: $229

Saint John (YSJ) to Orlando, Fort Lauderdale or Miami: $199

Saint John (YSJ) to Jamaica: $244

Sale includes hotels and rental cars as well as flights. The best deals sell out quickly, so travellers are urged to book immediately for travel up to April 2011, and in some cases up to June 2011. Further details are availabe by clicking here

95-Year Old Takes First Flight

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 10:24:21 -0500

First Flight Dream Come True

Ron O'Leary, a 95-year old Saint John resident took his first flight, under clear, sunny skies at the Saint John AIrport. The life-long dream was realized due to a Christmas gift from his niece. Mr. O'Leary has a obsession with planes, but had previously never flown in one. His inaugural flight was in a Cessna Skyhawk and flew over Millidgeville, Gondola Point, and the Bay of Fundy.

Top secret North Pole flight plan

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:08:56 -0500

A copy of a flight plan filed with NAV CANADA for a cargo flight departing the North Pole has been leaked to the media by an undisclosed source.

According to the plan, the pilot, Captain S. Claus will be flying a bright red sled-like aircraft powered by nine reindeer. Departing on December 24, the flight has many destinations and its route includes stops at the "homes of all the nice children in the world."

NAV CANADA would not confirm the authenticity of the flight plan but anonymous sources say that unusual aircraft will carry a huge cargo of brightly wrapped packages and will fly at a tremendous speed. An intense red light flashes at the aircraft's nose.

Few details are known about the pilot but sources say that he is a very jolly fellow who often stops to snack on milk and cookies while en route.

NAV CANADA would not reveal the identity of the pilot but confirmed reports that he is over 1,000 years old. "Nevertheless, he has excellent vision and superior cognitive skills," said a NAV CANADA spokesman. "In fact, he sees you when you're sleeping and he knows when you're awake." Rumours are circulating about the true identity of the mysterious Captain Claus, but NAV CANADA remained tight-lipped despite the leaked information.

Said the NAV CANADA spokesperson: "All we can confirm is that a sleigh-like aircraft powered by nine flying reindeer will be departing the North Pole on Christmas Eve to deliver packages all around the world. That could be anyone," he added with a smile.

NAV CANADA will be hard at work on Christmas ensuring that the normal air traffic control, flight information and advisory services, are provided for this special flight and all other aircraft - with technical operations and engineering support - as we do 365 days a year.

Saint John Airport greets arrivals with Christmas Carolers

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 12:59:24 -0500

Students of the Loch Lomond Elementary School will be greeting holiday arrivals this week at the Saint John Airport.

This Thursday, December 23, the Loch Lomond School Choir will be stationed at the arrivals area of the airport to sing holiday carols to travelers arriving on mid-day flights. Beginning with the 11:15 a.m. arrival from Toronto and the 12:00 noon arrival from Montreal, passengers will be treated to holiday Maritime hospitality. In addition to the choir, a dozen “Meeters and Greeters” in festive red vests will be handing out candy canes and answering travel related questions.

“We are pleased to offer a taste of Maritime hospitality to those returning to Saint John for the holidays as well as to those who are visiting for the first time,” stated Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Saint John Airport. “The children and their music, plus the holiday greeters help to put everyone in a holiday mood. Saint John is well known for these home-town touches.”

New YSJ Website Showcases Community Oriented Airport

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 12:34:40 -0500

(Saint John, NB – December 20, 2010) The Saint John Airport has unveiled a new website which puts the community up front.

“We chose to put community information and links right on our home-page to emphasize that we are a community oriented airport,” stated Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Saint John Airport. Mrs. Mitchell continued, “Community events, announcements supporting our local sports teams – all of it is important to our community, which makes it important to us.”

The new site places arrival and departure information up front and central, making it easy to determine whether flights are on schedule. “We have over 8,000 visits to the site each month, and a large number of visitors want arrival and departure information. Rather than force visitors to navigate through the site, we placed it right on the homepage,” Colleen commented. “In addition, information about what to see and do in the region is available. This supports local tourism and aids local tourism efforts.”

Events and other news are also posted on the homepage so that tourists travelling to the Saint John area can see “what’s going on” during the dates they plan on visiting.

The website address is: saintjohnairport.com

- XXX-

For further information, contact:

Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications

Saint John Airport Inc. DL: 506.638.5584

SUNWING ANNOUNCES VACATIONS VIA SAINT JOHN AIRPORT

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:34:18 -0500

(Saint John, NB – November 26, 2010) Sun destinations and dates were release for Sunwing vacation destinations departing from the Saint John Airport this morning. Vacations to Varadero and Havana, Cuba plus Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico will be available leaving from the local Saint John Airport. The departure schedule includes three dates per week: Friday, Sunday and Tuesday, providing increased flexibility for travelers.

“Beginning your vacation so close to home is a huge advantage for Saint John travelers. The short distance means vacations start sooner,” stated Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Saint John Airport.

Friday departures are extremely popular, allowing people to leave after a full week of work and return on a weekend. In addition, “Champagne package prices” begin as low as $265, departing from Saint John and include both flight and hotel!

Sunwing pricing is currently on sale, with some packages discounted by over 50%. These early-booking specials allow travelers to confirm their travel plans now, in advance of Christmas. For price-sensitive travelers, Sunwing certainly has fantastic deals. Resort options also extend up to five stars, for those interested in ultimate luxury, and include resorts such as Breezes by SuperClubs, RIU, Iberostar, Melia and Sandals, among others.

“Saint John is an excellent choice as a departure point for a get-away. With price competitive options, flexible departure dates and hundreds of hotels to choose from, Saint John can now compete on price, departure dates and hotel options,” commented Mrs. Mitchell.

Sunwing vacation packages can be booked through local area travel agents or through the website Sunwing.ca.

- XXX-

For further information, contact:
Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications

Saint John Airport Inc. DL: 506.638.5584

H.O.P.E. Centre Wellness Fair This Weekend

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:53:18 -0500

The Saint John Airport announced today its support for the H.O.P.E. Centre open house and wellness fair to be held Saturday, November 6, 2010.

The new H.O.P.E. Centre is now open at 4347 Loch Lomond Road, offering a multi-purpose facility housing a wellness centre, a community police office, and City of Saint John Leisure Services staff. In addition, there is a large meeting room that serves as a space to gather for parish and community activities. A licensed pre-school is now open and an after-school program begins this fall.

H.O.P.E. (Health, Opportunity, Pastoral, Education) has also partnered with St Joseph's Community Health Centre to offer the wellness fair. This event is open to all area residents beginning at 11:00 a.m. and ending at 2:00 p.m. Individuals are encouraged to help identify community needs and to make suggestions for possible programs and services to be offered at the centre. This will be an opportunity to meet H.O.P.E. Centre staff and partners. A variety of displays and activities are complemented with light refreshments and entertainment.

“The Saint John Airport, in its support for community activity and events is please to promote and support this initiative,” stated Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications.

Saint John Airport Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation serving community needs of southwestern New Brunswick, and is a key element in the economic and social development of this region.

For further information, contact:

Jill Roberts, RN BN, St Joseph's Community Health Centre

632-5552

Jill.Roberts@HorizonNB.ca

SAINT JOHN AIRPORT COMPLETES UPGRADES TO TAXIWAY LIGHTS

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:51:44 -0500

Operations personnel at the Saint John Airport reported today that airside construction, which began August 3, is now successfully complete. The project, with an estimated $550,000 budget, included replacement of taxiway and apron edge lighting and wiring. The energy-efficient LED lighting will result in improved reliability and operational efficiencies.

“The implementation of energy-efficient, long-life LED lighting is an excellent example of adhering to our mandate of maximizing safety, achieving operational efficiencies, and reducing our environmental impact where possible,” reported Bernard LeBlanc, President and CEO of the Saint John Airport.

During the construction phase, all navigational aids remained operational to maximize airport accessibility. No flights were cancelled or negatively impacted during this upgrade. The project has been completed within its project parameters.

SAINT JOHN AIRPORT PARTNERS WITH BOARD OF TRADE

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:54:21 -0500

Airport is drop off location for Bare Necessities Campaign

The Saint John Airport announced today that passengers using the Saint John Airport can drop off items for the Bare Necessities Campaign as part of the Saint John Board of Trade’s seasonal collection program. A collection box has been set up outside the security area so that passengers and others visiting the terminal can donate items.

“The Saint John Airport is a very accessible location. As such, it is a great spot for people to drop off items to donate to local charities. In addition, passengers carrying items that do not meet current security regulations can now donate those items to a local charity prior to entering the security area,” stated Colleen Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Saint John Airport.

The goal of the Board of Trade’s ninth annual “Bare Necessities” campaign is to provide women’s shelters, food banks and other charitable organizations packages with ‘little but necessary’ personal care items, just in time for the holiday season.

Mrs. Mitchell reinforced the Airport’s support for this program, “We are pleased to support this community endeavor. As many of the items donated are toiletry items from travelers, the airport is a logical fit with this program. We congratulate the Board of Trade on this initiative and hope to partner on other community programs in the future.”

The Bare Necessities Campaign continues until November 26.

MOCK EMERGENCY EXERCISE PLANNED FOR AIRPORT

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:55:47 -0500

The public is advised of a mock emergency exercise being held at the Saint John Airport on Wednesday, October 06 between the hours of noon and 4:00 p.m.

Persons in the vicinity of the Airport can expect to see an increased presence of emergency vehicles and personnel for the afternoon.

The purpose of the exercise is to test the Airport’s emergency plans, and the communications between responding agencies, and is a requirement of Transport Canada regulations.

Normal Airport operations and flights are not expected to be impacted by the exercise.

AIRPORT ADDS DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:58:02 -0500

The Saint John Airport now has a dedicated position for community involvement and raising the profile within the Greater Saint John and surrounding areas. Colleen Mitchell, long-time community supporter, has accepted the challenge.

“The Saint John Airport has identified four key priorities, one of which is to drive community engagement. Colleen has an excellent track record, and a long history of bringing groups together to achieve a common goal,” stated Bernard LeBlanc, President and CEO at the Airport.

Mrs. Mitchell’s business experience includes various positions at Irving Oil, The Saint John Port Authority, and most recently at ADI Group Inc., an engineering-technology firm, named one of “Canada’s 50 Best Managed”. In addition to her business experience, Colleen has served on volunteer boards including Vice-Chair of the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Past-president of the YMCA-YWCA, Board member of the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Foundation, and has sat on fundraising committees for numerous charities. In addition, over the years she has served on various committees and task forces for the Saint John Board of Trade and Enterprise Saint John, among others.

“The opportunity to engage the community and increase the passenger experience was too good to pass up,” stated Mrs. Mitchell. “I have traveled all over the world and realize we are fortunate to have our own local airport just minutes from the city core. I look forward to partnering with our stakeholders and making our airport the best it can be.”

SAINT JOHN AIRPORT ADDS FREE POWER, USB CONNECTIONS TO FREE WI-FI CURRENTLY IN PLACE

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:59:07 -0500

People using the Saint John Airport now have the ability to connect their electronic devices (computers, phones, games, etc.) in all waiting areas of the airport – for free. This new value-added service includes free power for charging electronic devices as well. Free WI-FI was made available airport-wide in 2009.

Passengers in all waiting areas, including at the gate, can now plug in electronic devices using their power cords or USB connections. In addition, individuals awaiting the arrival of aircraft can also connect in the arrivals area. This is a new service, free of charge to all people in the terminal building.

“The Saint John Airport remains committed to improving the passenger experience. Acknowledging that passengers must arrive well in advance of departure times, we are implementing services to help people utilize that time. Not having to worry about Internet fees and battery consumption is just one way of helping our customers,” commented Bernard LeBlanc, President and CEO at the Airport.

This move is an initiative to increase the productivity of passengers waiting for flights to depart, as well as those individuals greeting passengers. In addition, entertainment devices, such as games, can be connected.

“We have taken the lead by offering USB and power connections to both passengers and greeters. Now the down-time associated with waiting for departures and arrivals can be used either for work or pleasure without having to worry about battery consumption,” stated Mr. LeBlanc. “We enabled free connection to the Internet last year and that initiative was well received. This is yet another addition to the value-added services provided here, and adds to the growing list of benefits of flying through the Saint John Airport.”

AIRPORT WELCOMES TWO NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:03:13 -0500

Wayne Power, Chairman of the Board, Saint John Airport, is very pleased to announce the election of two new members to the Board of Directors.

Michael Walton, nominated by the Saint John Board of Trade, brings a wealth of business and governance experience to the Board. In addition to his present role as Director, Sales and Global Business Development for Lantic Sugar Limited, Michael has held numerous positions with community boards including the Atlantic Health Sciences Corporation’s Board of Trustees, where he served as Treasurer and Chairman of the Board. He is a member of the New Brunswick Investment Management Corporation’s Board and a member of their Board Governance Committee.

Mr. Walton is a long-time member of the Saint John Board of Trade and, as such, brings insight and perspective of the Saint John business community to the Airport Board of Directors. He has been elected to the Board for a three year term.

Norman McFarlane was nominated to the Board of Directors by the Federal Minister Transport, Infrastructure, and Communities. With his experience as former Mayor of Saint John, former MLA and provincial Cabinet Minister, consultant, accountant, and community leader, Mr. McFarlane brings important insight and attributes that will enhance and complement the existing Board composition.

Mr. McFarlane has served as past and present member of several community organizations including board member of the Insurance Institute of NB, NB Protestant Orphans Foundation, Kidney Foundation Saint John Chapter, Venue Saint John, Portland United Church Clerk of Session, 1985 Canada Summer Games Vice President, and President of several minor athletic associations. He has been elected to the Airport Board for a three year term.

The Board of Directors, Saint John Airport is extremely pleased to welcome these two esteemed community members to the Board.

AIRPORT AWARDS TAXI CONCESSION

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:08:27 -0500

Airport President and CEO Bernard LeBlanc and Gary Williston, Owner/Manager, Diamond Taxi are pleased to announce that, following a public tendering process, a five-year contract for ground transportation services at the Saint John Airport has been awarded to Diamond Taxi Ltd.

Effective August 02, Diamond Taxi will be the exclusive provider of taxis and hotel shuttle service from the Airport, and will be on-site for all flights. Luxury vehicle services will be available through their affiliate Saint John Executive Limousine Service upon request.

“Diamond Taxi submitted a very strong proposal”, says Bernard LeBlanc. “The travelling public expects clean cars, drivers with professional appearance and attitudes, and ease of payment. We believe Diamond Taxi will provide this kind of service and will represent the Airport well.” Diamond Taxi will have comment cards available in all vehicles, as well as on the Airport website. The drivers will also be participating in the NB Dept.Tourism SuperHost Training Program.

As part of the agreement, Diamond Taxi will also provide services to persons with disabilities upon request, and fares will follow the municipal taxi fare structure. The company will provide direct phone lines to their dispatch from the airport Arrivals area.

“The Airport looks forward to building a relationship with Diamond Taxi” adds LeBlanc, “Together we are committed to ensuring user expectations are met, and we anticipate receiving positive feedback from the community.”