Air Canada will once again operate its flight disruption shuttle from Castlegar to Kelowna this winter.
The shuttle, introduced last year at Castlegar’s West Kootenay Regional Airport (WKRA), offers travellers free transport to a re-routed flight out of Kelowna if their flight from WKRA to Vancouver is cancelled.
Since its launch in 2023, the City says the shuttle has helped over 1,800 passengers reach their destinations, with a 90 per cent success rate last winter.
“This shuttle service has transformed winter travel for our community, making it easier for travellers to get where they need to go regardless of the weather,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin of Castlegar.
“The City and the West Kootenay Regional Airport are proud to partner with Air Canada in bringing this essential service back, ensuring peace of mind and reliable options for all who travel through our region.”
The West Kootenay Regional Airport is also making progress toward implementing a Required Navigational Performance (RNP) approach.
According to the City, this approach will enhance flight accessibility and reduce cancellations by enabling aircraft to navigate precise, GPS-guided flight paths.
Transport Canada has signalled its intent to move the City of Castlegar forward and is actively engaged in the review process.
Once in place, the RNP solution will reduce cancellations caused by river and valley fog, increase successful landings, and support the airport’s long-term growth.
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