Airport News

2010 NEWS RELEASES AND HOME PAGE NEWS:

WESTJET Announces "$72 for 72 HOURS" Sale

Book Now! Saint John to Toronto fares starting at $72.

• Book by April 8, 2010 (11:59 p.m. MT).
• For Canadian destinations travel until July 15, 2010.
• For U.S. destinations travel between May 4 and October 28, 2010.
• For international destinations travel until June 23, 2010.

WestJet's kick-off for seasonal service Saint John to Toronto is May 21, now with a new morning departure time!

Airport Mourns the Passing of Board Chairman

The Saint John Airport was saddened to learn of the sudden death of Board Chairman Paul Doiron on March 06. Paul was first elected to the Board of Directors in 2003, and was elected as Board Chairman in May 2008. The Board, management & staff extend sincere condolences to Paul's wife Aurella, his son Curtis, and their families.

WESTJET Announces 20% Off From Saint John Sale!

For a limited time, get an extra 20% off all bookings originating from Saint John when you book online at westjet.com and enter promo code YSJ20 and coupon code MK9M9W0 on the first step of the booking process.

Save on all fares including seat sales for travel until July 15, 2010. Hurry this offer ends March 31, 2010. Book on westjet.com or call your travel agent.

TENDER - VEHICLE RENTAL CONCESSION

Interested parties may obtain tender documents from the President and CEO, Bernard LeBlanc, or the Manager of Finance & Administration, Judith Brown, Saint John Airport Inc. Phone: 638-5555, fax: 638-5550. Copies may also be picked up at the Airport administrative offices (address below), faxed or e-mailed to interested parties (make your request at fly@saintjohnairport.com) or downloaded here.

SEALED AND MARKED TENDERS for the project will be received by the President and CEO, Saint John Airport Inc., 4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, N.B. E2N 1L7, up to 3:00 p.m., AST March 26, 2010. The lowest, highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted by Saint John Airport Inc.

2009 NEWS RELEASES AND HOME PAGE NEWS:

Important Information for Travellers Connecting to US Destinations

On December 28, Transport Canada updated the rules regarding carry-on luggage for passengers travelling from Canada to the United States. Effective immediately, US bound passengers will are only permitted to bring one piece of carry-on luggage into the cabin of the aircraft 

More details on the security regulations can be obtained from Transport Canada at:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/backgrounders-menu-5781.htm

AIRPORT SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT INTO PLANNING PROCESS

Tuesday, 15 December 2009            

The Saint John Airport is asking for the public’s assistance as we undertake the development of a Strategic Plan and 20-Year Master Plan. Over the next few months, the Airport team, with the assistance of InterVistas Consulting, will be working with our Board of Directors, management team, and key stakeholder groups in order to fine-tune a vision for short and long-term planning. We are also seeking input from all interested members of the general public.

According to Airport President & CEO Bernard LeBlanc, “All southern New Brunswick residents, from Sussex to Saint John to St Stephen, are stakeholders of the Saint John Airport. In order to ensure that the Airport’s vision matches that of the community, we are inviting the public to provide their input into this planning process.”

Input and comments may be forwarded to: fly@sjairport.ca  by January 08, 2010. Written comments will also be received at the Saint John Airport Admin. Office, 4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, NB E2N 1L7.

Following a public tendering process, InterVistas (in collaboration with Stantec) was chosen to assist the Airport in revisiting our Strategic Plan, as well as developing a  20-Year Master Plan and Land Use Plan - required as part of the Airport’s Ground Lease with Transport Canada. In addition, InterVistas will be providing an Economic Impact Study to highlight the Airport’s contribution to the region.

We intend to release the results of the planning efforts at the Airport’s Annual General Meeting in May 2010.

JAZZ ADDS HOLIDAY CAPACITY

Air Canada Jazz will be adding additional seats between Toronto and Saint John over the holiday season. Starting Wednesday, Dec.16 and continuing until Wednesday, Dec. 23, flight#8948, arriving at 5:24 p.m. from Toronto, and flight #8951 departing Saint John at 6:00 p.m. will both be served using a 70-seat CRJ, providing an additional 20 seats per flight, and a total of 280 additional seats over the holidays.

BE MERRY AND PACK SMART THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

The holiday season is always the busiest time of year at Canada’s airports. Whether you are anxious to get home to visit family and friends, or escape to a winter getaway in the sun, here are some helpful packing tips that will make your air travel more about the destination and less about the common stressors of flying:

• Leave gifts unwrapped until you arrive at your destination, as their contents may need to be inspected.
• Baked goods can be packed in your carry-on baggage.
• All cameras must be inspected by x-ray. Camera film should be packed in carry-on baggage as x-ray equipment at pre-board screening will not damage film under 800 ASA/ISO. Most amateur photographers use film in the 100-400 ISO/ASA range. For film over 800 ASA/ISO, you may request a hand search, in which case you must take the film out of your camera. Digital disks are unaffected and can be packed in any baggage.
• Skis, snowboards and skates are not allowed as carry-on baggage. Place these items in checked baggage.

Not sure where to pack an item? Consult our Pack Smart page and, while you are there, try our new Prep & Fly travel tool to customize your own packing checklist.

Source: Canadian Air Transport Security Authority

Request for Proposals –

Strategic Plan, Master Plan, Land Use Plan, Economic Impact Study

The Saint John Airport Inc., as a result of our ground lease obligations with Transport Canada, requires that our existing Airport Master Plan be updated prior to June 2010.

Concurrent with this requirement we have decided that this is an opportune time to update our Strategic Plan while putting an emphasis on factoring in stakeholder input as part of this process. As a result we will be seeking out proposals to undertake portions (or all) of this work from qualified organizations.

The overall scope of work will be broken down into 4 individual components:

Part 1 – facilitation assistance with the development of the SJAI’s Strategic Plan

Part 2 - undertaking of an Airport Master Plan (per section 7.01 of our ground lease)

Part 3 – development of a Land Use Plan (per section 7.02 of ground lease document) to be incorporated as part of the Master Plan document.

Part 4 - the undertaking of an Economic Impact Study to be incorporated as part of the Master Plan.

For more information, please contact the undersigned.

Regards, Bernie

Bernard LeBlanc, P.Eng. | President & CEO
Saint John Airport Inc    www.saintjohnairport.com

4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, NB E2N 1L7, Canada
Tel: 506.638.5558 | Fax: 506.638.5550| Cell: 506.647.4899
bleblanc@sjairport.ca

AIRPORT INTRODUCES FREE WI-FI AND ENHANCED TRAVELLER SERVICES

The Saint John Airport is pleased to now be offering free Wi-Fi service to its passengers. According to Judith Brown, Manager of Finance and Administration, the Airport administration worked closely with Bell Aliant to negotiate an agreement for the provision of the service. “This wonderful new service offering would not be possible without the generous cooperation of our partners at Bell Aliant. We are pleased to recognize their contribution for making this possible”.  

Free Wi-fi was just one of the wish-list items highlighted by passengers in a recent user survey. The Airport’s restaurant provider, The Sandwich Layer, recently installed coffee service inside the secure departure area and is in the process of revamping its menu and negotiating with local craftspersons to enhance the retail options inside the giftshop area.

AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES TWO-DAY SALE, UP TO 50% OFF

Book by Sept.24 for Canada and the US, and by Oct.01 for other destinations.

Sample fare: Saint John to Toronto $89 one way, taxes and fees extra.

Book at aircanada.com

AIRPORT WELCOMES THE GOVERNOR GENERAL'S CUP

CROSS CANADA CENTENNIAL FLIGHT 

13 August 2009

The Governor General’s Cup Cross Canada Centennial Flight landed in Saint John today to celebrate the Canadian Centennial of Aviation. This will be their only New Brunswick stop. Twenty-four single engine planes arrived from Digby, NS (bringing 55 people). They are making sixteen stops across Canada, starting July 30 in Winnipeg and ending Aug 15 in Montreal.  It is the longest flight ever by a group of pilots in Canada...6200 NM (11,488 KM), ten provinces and three territories.

This is a non profit organization with pilots representing several countries, raising funds to help youth become pilots. 

The aircraft parked at the Atlantic Flight College hangar where local aviation groups hosted a short meet and greet.This fundraising event is one of six listed National Centennial events taking place in Canada:  www.canadiancentennialofflight.ca/airforce/events/events_e.php 

www.aviationconnection.org    www.airrally.com

BOOK, FLY, and SAVE WITH WESTJET

WestJet's 20% off promotion for Saint John is BACK! Book before Aug.31 for travel up to Oct.14. Be sure to enter the promo code FLYYSJ to get the sale price. 

AIR CANADA'S CABINS ARE NOW PET-FRIENDLY

In response to requests by customers wishing to travel with their pet in the cabin, Air Canada is reintroducing the service for travel on or after July 1, 2009 on all Air Canada and Jazz flights.

If you plan on travelling with your cat or small dog on or after that date, you'll need to pre-register your pet by contacting Air Canada Reservations within 24 hours of completing your booking, because the number of pets per flight is limited. If you booked your flight before June 17, 2009, it’s not too late to call and request the service. They will do their best to accommodate your pet. You'll need to carry your pet in an approved pet carrier and stow the carrier under your seat throughout the entire flight.

Air Canada is sensitive to the concerns of allergy sufferers, and understand that some customers may not wish to be seated too close to a cat or small dog during their flight. For this reason, they ask that, if you are an allergy sufferer, you advise the check-in agent or gate agent prior to your flight departure to ensure you are not next to a customer travelling with a pet. They will make reasonable efforts to move you or the pet and pet owner. View rules, restrictions and charges

THANK-YOU TRAVELLERS OF SOUTHWESTERN NB!

Saint John Airport Inc. is proud to be celebrating ten years of success as a private, not-for-profit airport authority.

With direct service to Halifax, Montreal/Ottawa, and Toronto hubs, as well as seasonal service direct to the Caribbean, our goal is to get travellers to their ultimate destinations around the world.

We feel fortunate to be serving this vibrant community, and we thank every traveller who used the Airport over the past ten years for helping us to achieve new levels of excellence.

Check us first, and save time and money. We look forward to serving this region of south-western NB for many years to come.

LOCH LOMOND SCHOOL PLANTS MARIGOLDS AT THE AIRPORT

11 June 2009

Rain did not dampen the enthusiasm of Mrs. Cox's Grade 4 class who enjoyed a tour of the Airport

after planting beautiful marigolds at the entrance road. Thank-you kids!

WESTJET'S 20% OFF PROMOTION HAS BEEN EXTENDED!

  For a limited time, get an extra 20% off all bookings originating from Saint John when you book online at westjet.com and enter promo code FLYYSJ. Save on all fares including seat sales for travel until July 15, 2009. Hurry, this offer must be booked by June 26, 2009.

AIRPORT CELEBRATES WESTJET’S RETURN

May 15, 2009
    Officials at Saint John Airport welcomed the return of WestJet Airlines today for its third season, offering direct daily service to Toronto and beyond, from now until October 31.

As part of the season launch, WestJet has announced a 20% off sale from Saint John only. Book online at westjet.com by May 31, 2009 (23:59:59 MT) for travel until June 30, 2009. New bookings only. Offer valid on all fares on regularly scheduled WestJet bookings originating from Saint John only.

Save an extra 20% on the lowest available fare when you enter the online promo code FLYYSJ on the first step of the booking process at westjet.com. Save on all fares including seat sales for travel between May 15 and June 30, 2009. Hurry this offer ends May 31, 2009. From Saint John, WestJet offers great connecting flights to these exciting destinations: Calgary, Edmonton, Montréal, Ottawa, Thunder Bay, Vancouver, Winnipeg. Book now at westjet.com or through participating travel agencies.

INVITATION TO TENDER

SEALED AND MARKED TENDERS: for Airport Cleaning Services will be received by the

President and CEO, Saint John Airport Inc., 4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John, NB E2N 1L7, up to 3:00 p.m., ADT June 05, 2009.

PROJECT: Cleaning Services – Air Terminal Building, Industry Canada Building and Car Wash facility,

Saint John Airport, Saint John, NB.

INSTRUCTIONS: Interested parties may obtain tender documents from the President and CEO, Bernard LeBlanc or the Manager of Operations and Maintenance, Randy Herrell, Saint John Airport Inc., 4180 Loch Lomond Road, Saint John NB  E2N 1L7,  phone: 506-638-5555, fax: 506-638-5550, email: fly@saintjohnairport.com. Copies may also be picked up at the Airport administrative offices (address above), faxed or emailed to interested parties or downloaded here.

A mandatory pre-tender briefing will be held on May 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. ADT, in the Saint John Airport Inc. Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Air Terminal Building, 4180 Loch Lomond Rd., Saint John, NB.The lowest, highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted by Saint John Airport Inc.

WestJet plays Heads and Tails for Romero House

May 12, 2009
WestJet today announced it will host a fun charitable event on Friday, May 15, 2009, at the Market Square boardwalk in support of Romero House. The airline begins seasonal service to the city on May 15 and invites all Saint Johners down to the boardwalk to participate in WestJet " heads and tails" for Romero House. Cost of participation is a non-perishable food item or cash donation and the grand prize is a return trip for two to any regularly-scheduled WestJet destination.

“WestJet truly feels that we are part of this community and what better way to celebrate our return to Saint John than by giving back,” said WestJet Saint John Station Manager Sharon Needham. “The spirit of caring is rooted in WestJet’s culture and we are excited to be able to support local charities like Romero House through a fun and friendly event like this.”

The WestJet heads and tails for Romero House event will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2009, at the Market Square boardwalk. After dropping off a non-perishable food item or cash donation, participants will gather and choose either heads or tails, indicating their choice by placing their hand on their head or back. A coin is tossed and the results announced. All those who made the correct choice remain in the game and those who are wrong leave the game. The remaining participants repeat the process until only one remains. The winner receives a return trip for two to any regularly-scheduled WestJet destination. In case of rain the event will be held inside the Market Square atrium.

The event is a lead-up to the season launch in Saint John. The first flight arrives that same day at 6:05 p.m. from Toronto and departs at 6:45. The daily service continues until Oct.31. Book now at WestJet.com.

Additional Flights At YSJ for the Summer

      Air Canada has confirmed that they will be re-introducing a 4th daily flight to Toronto from
      Saint John this summer starting June 20th. Book now at  aircanada.com!

     In addition, WestJet, who originally announced their seasonal return to the marketplace with
      service 6 days per week, have confirmed that they will be operating daily flights to Toronto from
      May 15 to Oct.31. Book now at WestJet.com.

Airport Plans for WESTJET’s Return

Officials at Saint John Airport are eagerly anticipating the return of WestJet Airlines for its third season, offering direct daily service to Toronto, starting May 15 and until October 31.

                                           NOW, Take an Extra 20% off from Saint John!

Book online at westjet.com by May 31, 2009 (23:59:59 MT) for travel between May 15, 2009 to June 30, 2009. New bookings only. Offer valid on all fares on regularly scheduled WestJet bookings originating from Saint John only. Save an extra 20% on the lowest available fare when you enter the online promo code FLYYSJ on the first step of the booking process at westjet.com. Save on all fares including seat sales for travel between May 15 and June 30, 2009. Hurry this offer ends May 31, 2009.
From Saint John: WestJet offers great connecting flights to these exciting destinations.
Calgary, Edmonton, Montréal, Ottawa, Thunder Bay, Vancouver, Winnipeg. Book now on westjet.com, or through participating travel agencies.

AIRPORT REPORTS RECORD-SETTING RESULTS

May 11, 2009  

Last week’s Annual General Meeting for the Saint John Airport proved to be a “good news” story on several fronts. Airport President & CEO Bernard LeBlanc reported that 2008 passenger numbers, which reached over 245,000, were the highest in Saint John Airport’s history. Mr. LeBlanc attributes the growth largely to the economic activity in the region, supported by seasonal service to two sun destinations by Sunwing Airlines, daily three-season service to Toronto on WestJet Airlines, and additional summer capacity offered by Air Canada Jazz.

On May 15, WestJet returns to Saint John for a third season. “Their service has injected new energy into the local marketplace, and provides Saint John travellers with additional capacity to our number one destination – Toronto, and connecting cities, on their 136-seat jet”, says Mr. LeBlanc. “We are certain WestJet will have another successful season here this year, but ultimately our goal is for them to fill enough seats to stay year-round.”

Having year-round WestJet service would also support the first business priority identified by the Saint John Board of Trade at their Annual Meeting earlier in the week – that of improving air access to support the energy hub. “We certainly need the entire community to support this effort” adds Mr. LeBlanc, “and we were very pleased to see the emphasis that the business community is going to place on helping us achieve that goal.” In addition to seeking new airline partners, the Airport continues to work with its primary carrier Air Canada Jazz to increase capacity to the Halifax, Montreal and Toronto hubs.

Having just wrapped up their most successful season ever in Saint John with service to Cuba and Mexico, Sunwing Airlines is currently negotiating with the Airport to offer three sun destinations for the next three winters. “Sunwing has proven that they can offer a competitive product for local travellers”, says LeBlanc. “As customer awareness and booking numbers continue to grow, the offerings from Saint John will surely increase as well.”

A review of the Airport’s financial findings, presented by auditor Andrew Logan of Teed Saunders Doyle & Co. revealed an operating surplus of just over $700,000, and an investment of $855,000 into the long-term capital asset replacement fund, bringing the fund balance to approx. $2.6 million. Airport officials estimate expenses of approximately $20 million to maintain existing infrastructure, including runways, for business continuity over the next ten years.

Meanwhile, Bernard LeBlanc reported that the Airport has made application for funding support from both the federal and provincial governments under the Building Canada Fund. The shared investment would allow for enhancements to the parking area, terminal building, and runway lighting. The modest terminal building expansion would allow for counter space for an additional air carrier – which is not possible given the present terminal size. The Airport is now awaiting a federal/provincial government decision on funding availability.

Mr., LeBlanc thanked the municipalities of Saint John, Quispamsis, Rothesay, Grand Bay-Westfield, Hampton, and St.Stephen, as well Enterprise Saint John, Enterprise Fundy, Enterprise Charlotte, the Saint John Board of Trade, the Atlantica Center for Energy, Ganong Bros and Irving Oil, for submitting letters of support for the application.

AIRPORT WELCOMES WESTJET BACK FOR A THIRD SEASON

May 06, 2009  

Officials at Saint John Airport are eagerly anticipating the return of WestJet Airlines for a third year, offering seasonal service direct daily to Toronto from May 15 to October 31.

Today, Airport President & CEO Bernard LeBlanc reported, “We are thrilled to have WestJet back in Saint John for a third season. Their service has injected new energy into the local marketplace, and provides Saint John travellers with additional capacity to our number one destination – Toronto, and connecting cities, on their 136-seat jet.”

Last year’s passenger stats were the highest in Saint John Airport’s history, which Mr. LeBlanc credits largely to the WestJet service.

 “We know that many Saint John travellers would like to see WestJet here year-round and we’ve been working closely with WestJet officials to try to make that happen”, adds LeBlanc. “We are confident that year-round service will become a reality but quite frankly, it’s just a question of ticket sales. If Saint John sales prove to be strong enough to fill the seats, it makes their business decision a lot easier.”

“WestJet is excited to be returning to Saint John again this summer,” said Chris Avery, WestJet Vice-President Revenue and Planning. “With daily service to Toronto starting May 15, not only will the over 200,000 people of the greater Saint John region have access to our 55-city North American and Caribbean network, it provides increased connectivity to the city. We’re happy to be back and hope the community continues to support our service.”  

Last month, as a pre-season primer WestJet announced a 20% off sale, on top of seat sales, for travel between May 15 and June 30 that is booked before May 31. In addition to supporting numerous charitable events throughout the year, the local WestJet team will also be marking the May 15 season launch day by running a “Noses and Tails” promotional event in the Market Square Boardwalk area at noon to benefit the Romero House Soup Kitchen.

WestJet will be arriving in Saint John daily from Toronto at 6:05 p.m. and departing to return to Toronto at 6:45 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at www.westjet.com, or through your local travel agent.

Information for Passengers - Swine Flu

Apr.30, 2009

Please be advised that the World Health organization has raised the pandemic flu threat level to 5, and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) issued an advisory Monday night recommending against non-essential travel to Mexico until further notice. The PHAC is practising enhanced vigilance when responding to passengers who are exhibiting influenza-like symptoms combined with a history of recent travel to south and central Mexico.

Most Canadian Airlines have cancelled or limited their departures to Mexico, and travellers are advised to check wth their airline for the status of their reservation.The Saint John Airport will continue to follow the guidance of PHAC and the Airport Emergency Procedures Plan as this situation evolves.

For more information on PHAC, and this potential public health concern, please visit: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine-porcine/faq_rg_swine-eng.php#faq10.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The public is invited to attend the

Saint John Airport

Annual General Meeting

Thursday May 07, 2009

Trinity Royal Room, Delta Brunswick Hotel

Book Now On sunwing!

Recent stormy weather conditions appear to have prompted high numbers of Saint John residents to book winter vacations through Sunwing Vacations. Saint John Airport President & CEO Bernard LeBlanc says Sunwing officials are reporting that bookings are well ahead of last year, and in some cases are sold out already.

Mr. LeBlanc adds that the Airport is very pleased with the projected results. “We are thrilled to welcome Sunwing back for a third season in Saint John. They continue to provide exciting seasonal destinations for Saint John travellers, and we are extremely pleased to see that they’ve added Cancun back into our mix for the third season, and have selected Varadero, Cuba for the first time this year.”

According to Bob Sime, Sunwing’s Director for Atlantic Canada, another factor helping the Saint John bookings is the early season start-up, in time to catch the ever-popular March break traffic. While the previous two seasons saw a mid-to-late March start-up, this year Cancun packages startedt Feb.15 and run weekly until May 03, and Varadero started on Feb.17 with service continuing weekly until April 28.

“There are still great deals to be had,” adds Mr. Sime, “and I would encourage people to call their travel agents now so as not to be disappointed.” 

Sunwing offers spectacular deals to both destinations, with a wide variety of three, four, and five star properties, including three, adults-only properties. Sunwing Vacations offers all inclusive vacation packages, leisure flights, group travel, hotel and car rental deals, on ideal vacations to Cuba.

Saint John travellers are very familiar with both Cancun, which was offered for the past two seasons, and Varadero, famous for its 20 km. sandy white beach strip and azure waters that make up the Peninsula de Hicacos - a beach so large that it’s still uncrowded despite the number of large resorts and variety of water sports.

Sunwing's first flight into Saint John Airport, March 2007

LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDER SELECTED FOR AIRPORT RESTAURANT SERVICES

23 January 2009, Saint John, NB

Bernard LeBlanc, President & CEO Saint John Airport and Mike Gallagher, President & CEO Hipercom Inc. are pleased to announce that a five-year agreement has been reached between the Airport and Hipercom Inc. for the delivery of restaurant and gift shop services at the Saint John Airport.

Bernard LeBlanc says the Hipercom management team has over thirty years of restaurant experience in the Saint John area, including fast food outlets, and most recently opening the Sandwich Layer on Union Street.   “We were looking for someone with a proven track record to help us meet the needs of our growing passenger numbers,” says LeBlanc, “and we are fortunate to have reached an agreement with a local operator with Hipercom’s experience.”

Hipercom President & CEO Mike Gallagher says the Airport represents an interesting and exciting new opportunity for his company. While the restaurant name will change to Sandwich Layer, Gallagher says that initially, the Feb.01 start-up will bring few visible changes to travelers.  “We want to assess the needs of the clientele and poll the users before we finalize the business model. Many of the same friendly faces that you met with the current operator, Caterplan, will be staying on to help us manage the transition.”

Gallagher also adds “We will evaluate the need for offering travel aids and local gifts, as well as offering carry-on meals and refreshments inside the departure area. We’re excited to be part of the Airport family and look forward to the opportunity of enhancing the travel experience for Saint John Airport passengers, as well as drawing local residents to the site.”

It is expected that the transition of the Airport restaurant operations from Caterplan to Hipercom will begin on February 01.

AIRPORT ENDS THE YEAR ON A HIGH NOTE

Jan.09 2009, Saint John, NB

Officials at the Saint John Airport are reporting today that 2008 year-end traffic figures reached 245,000, setting another all-time record and surpassing last year’s record by 1500 passengers.Bernard LeBlanc, Airport President & CEO says that given today’s economic situation, these year-end results are extremely encouraging.

“In light of the high fuel prices that the industry faced during the summer months, as well as the deteriorating economy worldwide, and the scaling back of seat availability by major Canadian air carriers, YSJ still managed an increase over 2007 which, until that point, had been our best year ever.”

In 2007, the Airport passenger count increased by an astounding 25% over 2006, setting an all-time local record and ranking number 2 among all Canadian airports for domestic passenger growth (after Fort McMurray). That growth was attributed to the start up of WestJet and Sunwing service, additional summer flights offered by Air Canada, as well as the growing local economy.

Sunwing Airlines are so confident in the Saint John market that their seasonal operations are starting a month earlier than usual. “This is the third season that we’ve welcomed Sunwing in Saint John. Saint John travelers have obviously responded positively to the convenience of local direct departures offered by Sunwing, and this year they’ve decided to offer their flights to Cancun and Varadero starting in mid-February, in time to capture the March break traffic.”

The Airport also eagerly anticipates the return of WestJet seasonal service in mid-May. “WestJet has experienced tremendous seasonal success here”, says LeBlanc. “With direct flights to Toronto six days weekly from May to the end of October, local travelers have a competitive option, one that needs to be sufficiently supported in order to warrant year-round service by them in the future.”

For details on news releases from previous years, please contact the airport at fly@saintjohnairport.com

2008:

Dec.16: Southwest Airlines Adds WestJet Booking Link to their WebSite

Dec.12: Travel Tips for the Busy Holiday Season

Nov.27: Airport Reports Continued 3rd Quarter Growth

Nov.15: Airport Seeks Restaurant Partner

Oct.30: Sunwing Announces Early Season Start-Up for 2009

Oct.01: WestJet Seat Sale

Sept.26: AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES SUN PASS PROMOTION

Sept.05: GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ANNOUNCES FLIGHT RIGHTS FOR AIR TRAVELLERS

July 17: AIRPORT POSTS POSITIVE 2ND QUARTER NUMBERS

July 15: SUNWING ADDS SECOND DESTINATION TO SAINT JOHN MARKET

July 15: APPOINTMENT NOTICE, MANAGER FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

July 08: WESTJET AND SOUTHWEST AIRLINES ANNOUNCE SIGNING OF AGREEMENT

June 24: AIR CANADA SCHEDULES INCREASED CAPACITY AT SAINT JOHN AIRPORT

June 04: AIRPORT ADDS SECOND PASSENGER SCREENING LINE

May 01: AIR CANADA 4th DAILY TORONTO FLIGHT STARTS TODAY

June 05: WESTJET SEAT SALE

May 14: WestJet 1st Anniversary at YSJ!

April 30: AIRPORT BIDS FAREWELL TO VP

April 15: INVITATION TO ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

April 09: AIRPORT POSTS POSITIVE WINTER NUMBERS

March 31: AIRPORT NAMES BERNARD LEBLANC AS NEW CEO

March 12: SUNWING RETURNS FOR THE SPRING SEASON

Feb.20: AIRPORT WELCOMES A NEW TENANT

Jan.23: WestJet Seat Sale

Jan.09: AIRPORT ENDS THE YEAR ON A HIGH NOTE

2007:

Dec.07: Airport Gets High Marks for Customer Service

Nov.23: Air Canada Announces Increased Capacity at Saint John Airport

Nov.21: Sunwing Clip and Save Sale

Nov.21: Air Canada Regular Fares within Canada are 1/2 Price
Nov.15: Sunwing Announces 40% Off Sale

Nov.02: WestJet Winter Schedule Takes Effect

Nov.05: AIRLINES RESUME NORMAL OPERATIONS FOLLOWING TROPICAL STORM NOEL

Oct.11: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT PARTICIPATES IN MOCK INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING EXERCISE

Sept.18:SAINT JOHN RANKS 1ST in COUNTRY AGAIN IN DOMESTIC GROWTH

Sept.19: Sunwing launches the ultimate sun sale: 10,000 all inclusive holidays for just $695
Sept.21: AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES SUN PASSES

Aug.31: AIRPORT NAMES INTERIM CEO

Aug.15: AIRPORT SETS ANOTHER RECORD FOR PASSENGERS

June 27: WestJet Flies into “Year-Round” Service for Saint John

July 16: AIRPORT SETS ONE-MONTH RECORD FOR PASSENGERS

June 22: ATLANTIC FLIGHT CENTRE HOSTS ALL-WOMEN'S AIR RACE

June 20: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT IN CANADA'S TOP TEN FOR PASSENGER GROWTH

June 20: SCHOOL CHILDREN PLANT FLOWERS AT AIRPORT

May 14: WESTJET LANDS IN SAINT JOHN

May 11: WESTJET ANNOUNCES $49 FARE TO TORONTO

May 09: AIRPORT REPORTS STRONG GROWTH

May 04: AIRPORT HOLDS ITS ANNUAL MEETING

Feb01: AIRPORT EXTENDS DEPARTURE LOUNGE

Jan.17: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT LANDS WESTJET

Jan.11:   AIRPORT PASSENGER NUMBERS HIGHEST IN FIVE YEARS

Jan.10: AIRPORT ANNOUNCES PLACEMENT OF AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR MACHINE

Jan.02: WEATHER DIVERTS FLIGHTS TO SAINT JOHN

2006:

Dec.29: FLAGS FLY AT HALF-MAST

Dec.13: Holiday Travel Tips

Dec.05: Expect to Wait for Your New Passport

Nov.30: SUNWING ANNOUNCES "AIR-ONLY" FARE  

Nov.03: AIRPORT REPORTS STRONG PASSENGER NUMBERS

Sept.13: SUNWING DEBUTS SUNNY HOLIDAY PACKAGES FROM SAINT JOHN

Sept.11: TWO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS BEGIN AT THE AIRPORT

Aug.10: Transport Canada Security Advisory

July 17: New Uptown Shuttle to Saint John Airport

July 12: FAMILY FROM AUSTRALIA ENJOYS A TOUR OF THE AIRPORT

July 04: Impact on Airport Fees as a result of the 1% decrease in GST

June 19: AIRPORT AWARDS TAXI CONCESSION

June 16: CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT

May 29: FOURTH DAILY FLIGHT TO TORONTO STARTS JUNE 01

May 24: Saint John Airport Upgrading Parking Systems

April 20: AIRPORT HOLDS ITS ANNUAL MEETING

April 05: Public Invitation to the Annual Meeting

March 16: Air Canada to Offer Fourth Daily Direct Flight from Saint John to Toronto

March 02: AIRPORT PASSENGER NUMBERS INCREASE

March 02: ROCK BAND ARRIVES FOR CONCERT

Jan.16: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT UNDERGOES ANNUAL SECURITY AUDIT

2005:

Dec.13: AIRPORT WINTER OPERATIONS CREW PREPARING FOR THE SEASON

Nov.29: NEW SECURITY SYSTEM IN PLACE FOR AIRPORT EMPLOYEES

Nov.15: PASSENGER SECURITY TEAM RANKS FIRST IN THE MARITIMES

Oct.03: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT BENEFITS FROM US VISIT

Sept.06: APPOINTMENT - MANAGER, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Aug.25: AIR CANADA CHANGES BAGGAGE ALLOWANCES

Aug.18: AIRPORT UPGRADES RUNWAY LANDING SYSTEM

Aug.10: AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES SEAT SALE

Aug.02: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT RENEWS LICENCES

June 21: LOCH LOMOND SCHOOL CHILDREN PLANT FLOWERS AT AIRPORT

May 31: Meet & Greet Volunteers Return to Airport for Summer Season

May 19: Saint John Airport Conducts Annual Fire Training Exercise

May 11: AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES SEAT SALE

April 29: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WEEK

April 20: AIRPORT HOLDS ITS ANNUAL MEETING

April 05: NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

March 15: Saint John Airport Responds to Requests on Airport Facility Fee

March 10: FIREFIGHTER LOMAX RETIRES

Feb.14: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT JOINS AIR CANADA’S CITY PASS PROGRAM

Feb.03: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT FIRST TO TEST HEARING TECHNOLOGY

Jan.26: Federal Transport Minister Visits Saint John Airport

Jan.05: AIR CANADA ANNOUNCES SEAT SALE

2004:

Dec.20: SANTA’S HELPERS ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT

Dec.14: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT INITIATES LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN TO AIRLINES

Dec.02: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT UPGRADES INFRASTRUCTURE

Nov.24: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT PRESIDENT RESPONDS TO MEDIA FUROR BETWEEN MONCTON AND FREDERICTON AIRPORTS

Nov.05: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT INSTALLS “Pay & Display” FOR SHORT TERM PARKING

Oct.12: Airport Upgrades its Radio Infrastructure 

Sept.25: JETSGO SUMMER NUMBERS ARE IN

Sept.09: Airport CEO Outlines Priorities to Region’s Mayors

Aug.24: SAINT JOHN AIRPORT FIGHFIGHTERS RESPOND QUICKLY TO CRASH OFF-SITE
Aug.05: AIRPORT UPGRADES RUNWAY LIGHTING

July 14: JETSGO Returns To Saint John
May 19: Aliant introduces Wireless Internet Access at the Airport
March 01: Jetsgo Returns for Summer Flights
Feb.24: Pan Am to Cease Air Service Between Saint John Airport

2003:

Sept.11, 2003: Saint John Airport to Operations Base for Canada’s Snowbirds
Sept.09: Saint John Airport To Hold Simulated Disaster Exercise
July 18: The Saint John Airport is currently seeking a Manager of Administration and Finance
June 11: Saint John Airport Lighting Modernization
April 25: Emergency Response Exercise Scheduled For Saint John Airport
Feb.25: New Saint John Airport and Tourism Saint John
Feb.21: Saint John Airport Publishes Year-End 2002 Passenger Stats’
Feb.20: Local Charter Service Moves Into YSJ Terminal
Feb.19: New Pan Am Service For Saint John Airport
Jan.01: On March 1, 2003 Saint John Airport Inc. will increase the PFC to $15.00, including HST.

2002:

Nov.02: Official Opening of New Air Terminal Scheduled For November 27th
Oct.10: Flight Information Display System (FIDS) now operational at Saint John Airport
Sept.24: Discount Fare Carrier Air Canada Tango Confirms Service Extension
Sept.23: Increased Pan Am Service for Saint John
July 30: Pan Am Agrees To Lower Fares To Bangor and Portsmouth
July 29: PAN AM CLIPPER CONNECTION TAKES OFF FOR SAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK
July 25: PAN AM CLIPPER CONNECTION SERVICE WITH SAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK TO BE OFFICALLY LAUNCHED
July 18:CF-18’s Visit Saint John Airport
July 11: New Charter Air Service for Saint John Airport
June 26: PAN AMERICAN AIRWAYS LINKS SAINT JOHN WITH NORTHEAST UNITED STATES

2001:

Sept.06: New Era Begins with Renovation and Expansion of the Air Terminal Building