Major seaplane operator launches first wheeled flight
Seaplane operator Harbour Air is introducing its first wheeled flight service between Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal and Victoria International Airport (YYJ).
The new service by North America’s largest seaplane airline will begin on 4 November, marking a significant shift for the airline, which has traditionally operated seaplanes.
For the first time, Harbour Air’s new wheeled aircraft will allow flights during hours of darkness, an important step forward as the airline has historically been limited to daylight operations.
This new service will provide up to three daily round-trip flights from Monday to Friday, with the flexibility of early morning and late evening departures.
Chris Fordyce, VP of commercial at Harbour Air Group, said: “We’re thrilled to launch our wheeled flights between Vancouver and Victoria. These flights will provide passengers with new commuting options, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings, which we’ve not been able to offer before.”
The newly converted Canadian-built 19-seater Twin Otter aircraft will feature wheels and de-icing equipment, enabling Harbour Air to fly in more challenging weather conditions and to land at airports outside daylight hours.
Russell Atkinson, Director of Air Service Development at YVR, added: “Harbour Air already offers fantastic access to destinations like the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, Whistler, and Seattle. We’re thrilled about the introduction of their first-ever wheeled aircraft on the Vancouver-Victoria route. It’s an exciting step forward in providing even more choice and convenience for passengers.”
Earlier this year, Harbour Air revealed plans to purchase 50 electric propulsion systems from Magnix, as the airline seeks to create a fleet of electric De Havilland Canada aircraft.
