Province Lauds Flight Additions

Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell commended Air Canada today for listening to Nova Scotia and for reinstating direct flights from Halifax to Calgary and Newark, New Jersey.

Non-stop flights are to resume this spring. The Halifax-to- Calgary service will be offered once daily. Halifax-to-Newark will see two flights a day.

Mr. Russell and Tourism Minister Rodney MacDonald met with Air Canada officials earlier this year to express concern that eliminating the two routes would have a negative effect on the provincial economy.

"Our trade inside and outside the Atlantic region and our tourism sector depend heavily on timely, affordable air service," said Mr. Russell. "I'm pleased that Air Canada has recognized that market demand warrants the return of direct flights to Calgary and Newark. However, seasonal service is not enough. We will continue to advance the view that year-round service is essential to helping local businesses and industries remain competitive in the marketplace."

Mr. Russell said that Air Canada should also give serious consideration to bringing back service to Washington.

Nova Scotia has raised the subject of air access with federal Transport Minister David Collenette. It's also been a priority at the annual premiers' conferences and was highlighted in the province's submission to the Canadian Transportation Act review panel last year.