Passenger numbers continue to increase gradually at the Prince George Airport.
August saw 11,006 travellers come through the airport, a drop of 72 per cent from August of 2019. Passenger numbers for the months of April and May were down 96 per cent, June saw a decrease of 91 per cent, and July was down 75 per cent when compared to 2019.
"The ongoing increase in passenger numbers continues to leave us feeling cautiously optimistic as we navigate through these uncertain times" said Prince George Airport Authority CEO Gordon Duke. "The Prince George Airport Authority remains supportive of our airline partners and are working to help facilitate a successful return to service."
A further increase is expected in September due to added service.
Flair Airlines has been operating service to Vancouver and Edmonton twice weekly since August 23 and Central Mountain Air has resumed weekly service to Edmonton and Fort Nelson.
In other encouraging news, Pacific Coastal Airlines announced that they will be returning to Prince George starting October 4. They will be flying three days per week to Victoria.
In addition to increased flight service, the Prince George Airport Authority has added a number of new passenger service initiatives to the airport.
These include The Salted Cracker restaurant, a premium parking program, continual updates to the COVID-19 page on its website, and added options in the vending machines to purchase masks, hand sanitizer, and gloves.
"We have worked hard to increase customer confidence and experience through increased cleaning protocols, open communication, and the introduction of new passenger services" Duke said.
A reminder that masks are mandatory at the airport and only employees and passengers with a valid ticket are permitted inside the terminal, unless assistance is required. Short term parking fees have been eliminated if you stay with your vehicle.
