Air Creebec Faces Flight Schedule Backlash from Northern Communities

Air Creebec’s recent flight schedule changes have sparked significant frustration among residents of the Cree community of Whapmagoostui. Following the implementation of the new schedule on June 30, 2023, local resident Ruth Masty launched a petition that has since accumulated over 500 signatures. The changes have left many passengers feeling stranded or unable to attend critical appointments and events.

Masty expressed the community’s struggles, noting that Whapmagoostui is the only Cree community not accessible by road. “We need to really plan in advance and be prepared to get stuck somewhere,” she stated. “That means being away from our jobs and family. Some have just cancelled their trips. It’s really inconvenient.” Flights that previously operated almost daily have been reduced to only two or three departures toward the end of the week, forcing some residents to take alternative routes that include overnight stays in Montreal.

Challenges of the New Schedule

With connections to Chisasibi now requiring more extensive travel plans, residents face increased accommodation and travel costs. “Another story I heard was a regional board meeting on a Thursday in Nemaska but with the Chibougamau flight they’d have to leave probably on a Monday or Saturday,” Masty explained. “It would take a week to attend a one-day meeting.” While there are alternatives through Air Inuit from neighbouring Kuujjuarapik, these flights present their own logistical challenges, especially for those who keep vehicles in Chisasibi.

Air Creebec’s CEO, Tanya Pash, acknowledged the difficulties faced by passengers but noted that limited manpower and aircraft availability have necessitated the schedule adjustments. Pash refrained from commenting directly on the petition, citing legal restrictions that prevent airlines from yielding to public pressure, which she suggested could lead to safety issues. “Once I’ve done my due diligence, I’ll come back with a comment,” Pash told reporters, emphasizing that flight schedules are subject to continual adjustment due to regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Hurdles and Financial Strain

Air Creebec, like other northern airlines, has been vocal in criticizing recent federal regulations that restrict pilot flying hours and impose weather-related groundings. Pash highlighted past lobbying efforts against the pilot-fatigue regulations introduced by former Transport Minister Marc Garneau in 2018, which the airline argued would increase operational costs by 30%. “Sure enough, we had to hire more crews to cover the same number of flights, which is significant, especially coming out of Covid,” Pash remarked. “There was never a fatigue-related accident in Canada – we’ve always done it like this and proven it’s safe.”

The combination of a pre-existing pilot shortage and new legislative requirements means Air Creebec must hire additional staff, complicating operational logistics. With routes often covering up to seven stops, remote communities are particularly vulnerable to duty-time restrictions. To address these challenges, the airline has turned to innovative recruitment methods, including social media outreach.

While the new schedule has reduced landings in Chisasibi, it has increased connections to other inland communities. Pash indicated her commitment to finding solutions that benefit all parties involved. “I’m going to try to make as many happy as I can, but the reality is somebody’s going to have to pay,” she stated. “We can’t fly at a loss – that would be ruining everything for Air Creebec. We’re proud of the fact we’re self-sustained.”

The airline’s charter services help subsidize its scheduled flights, which typically struggle to break even. Pash is cautious about seeking support from the Board of Compensation, though discussions regarding an air travel fund for specific communities have taken place. As Air Creebec’s fleet ages, including plans for a gradual replacement of its Dash 8-100 airplanes, the company is actively strategizing for future operations.

In a nod to its heritage, Air Creebec recently donated its Hawker Siddeley HS748 aircraft to the Canadian Aviation Museum after decades of service. “An aircraft is like a car,” Pash explained. “At a certain age, you’re more likely to have that check engine light come on. But aircraft are expensive – we can’t change a bunch in one year.”

Pash also addressed the financial burden on passengers due to high taxes and fees in Quebec, which she described as the most expensive province for the aviation industry. After discussions with Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault, a modified Regional Air Access Program was introduced last winter, offering a 75% flight discount, which Masty reported had a positive impact on travel from Whapmagoostui. Yet, the recent schedule changes have left community members feeling back at square one, with some stranded due to cancelled flights during recent regional elections.

As Air Creebec navigates these ongoing challenges, Pash reiterated the company’s commitment to adapt and respond to regulations that safeguard both the airline and its passengers. “This is yet another challenge we’re going through, but we’ve always succeeded,” she asserted. “We’re one of the longest-standing companies that have not received bailouts. We’re proud to say we’re strong.”