Pacific Coastal Airlines will be grounding its fleet as of Wednesday, March 25.
In a letter to customers, president Quentin Smith stated the impact of COVID-19 on the health and safety of people and communities is extensive, and local businesses are now feeling its effects.
“The aviation industry has been particularly hard hit,” stated Smith. “Pacific Coastal fully supports the efforts of Canada’s federal and provincial governments and health agencies to stem the transmission of this virus. However, there is at present no certainty on when the current situation will end.
“Due to the rapidly deteriorating situation and the need to be socially responsible during this state of emergency, I am announcing that effective end of day Tuesday, March 24 we will implement a temporary suspension of all Pacific Coastal network operations and anticipate that we will resume regular operations on May 3, 2020. Link operations will continue under the guidance and direction of WestJet until further notice.”
Smith stated he wishes again to stress that this is a temporary measure only, and that the airline will continue to monitor the situation with the aim of re-establishing operations and recalling employees as soon as they are able.
“I recognize the impact this will have on the people and the communities we so proudly serve, but given the rapidly deteriorating situation and uncertain future, we have no other choice but to take this drastic step to ensure the health and safety of our employees and the public, and the financial survival of our airline,” stated Smith.
“We are appreciative of all the support we have received from our customers over the years and look forward to seeing you on board a Pacific Coastal flight sometime in the future. In the meantime, I urge everyone to follow the important recommendations provided to you by credible health authorities on how to manage your personal health at this time.”
If you have a reservation with us for travel between Wednesday, March 25 and Saturday, May 2, 2020 inclusive, follow this link for more information on how we are assisting customers.
