The wheels of an Air Canada plane rolled over the tarmac at the Red Deer Regional Airport on Tuesday, marking the city’s inclusion onto the list of destinations for the airline.
The flight was accompanied by a celebration to honour the Central Alberta community’s addition to the company total of more than 175 destinations worldwide.
Officials say that with Red Deer now on board, they’re seeing customers book connecting flights from there to other locations across Canada and the world.
"We're pleased to welcome Air Canada to Red Deer Airport and congratulate them for embracing the opportunity to provide convenient air travel to and from Central Alberta," said RJ Steenstra, CEO, Red Deer Airport Authority. "Our businesses and citizens are now connected to the rest of Canada and the world and that has broad economic opportunity and impact for the region. As well, with no-charge parking at the terminal and fast check-in combined with Air Canada's award winning service, passengers will be delighted in the experience flying from Red Deer Airport."
Stephen Poirier, senior vice president and chief commercial officer for the Calgary Airport Authority says that the new connection makes Calgary a transportation hub for the region.
Air Canada will be offering three daily flights between Red Deer Airport and Calgary International Airport which will allow for convenient connections to other flights.
The regional flight will be operated by Air Georgian under the Air Canada Express brand, using 18-seat Beechcraft 1900D aircraft.
(With files from the Canadian Press)
