As B.C. starts to reopen the economy, Pacific Coastal Airlines is getting ready to hit the runway and resume service at the Campbell River Airport (YBL), with two flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting on June 2.
As the company is set to take flight once again, new rules will be put in place to protect passengers and staff. There will be physical distancing in the terminal and all passengers must wear a face mask when entering the security screening area, as well as during the flight.
There will be no changes to curbside passenger drop off, or parking in designated areas, where passengers can still be met outside in front of the terminal building.
“Campbell River’s airport provides a vital connection for essential medical and business travel. To be able to gradually resume regular service, is a testament to the fact that we have kept the number of COVID-19 cases low,” says Mayor Andy Adams.
“But we are not on the other side of this pandemic yet. We must all continue to stay vigilant about handwashing, maintaining physical distance, monitoring our health and isolating ourselves from others if we are sick.”
Both Tuesdays and Thursdays, the airport terminal building will be open to the public from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. The first flight will arrive at YBL at 8:30 a.m. and depart at 8:50 a.m. The second flight will arrive at 4:45 p.m. and depart at 5:05 p.m.
“COVID-19 circumstances and updates continue to occur frequently at this time, and we wish to assure the travelling public that the City of Campbell River is monitoring and adjusting where necessary, with public and employee safety as our top priority,” adds city manager Deborah Sargent.
As one airline is ready to take flight in Campbell River, another was grounded before it could even start as the launch of the Island’s newest airline was postponed due to COVID-19.
Rebecca Lawrence
