With the global pandemic continuing to have a significant impact on remote communities that depend on small air carriers, the Government of Canada is partnering with the Government of Yukon to support essential air access to remote communities. There are 28 communities with airports or aerodromes in Yukon that are considered remote.
Canada’s Minister of Transport, the Honourable Marc Garneau, said:“While we continue to work together to limit the spread of COVID-19, we must also ensure remote communities continue to have the air connectivity they need for essential goods and services, travel and business. Our agreement with the Government of Yukon will allow for reliable air services to keep communities in the Yukon connected to the rest of the country.”
As part of the agreement the Canadian Government is contributing up to $7 million to ensure continuity of service for at least six months and up to 18 months if necessary. The Government of Yukon is also extending fee waivers totalling up to $234,000 through to the end of March 2021. Under the agreement the minimum levels of essential services to remote communities will be determined by the Government of Yukon. It will then allocate funding to air operators to ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to these communities.
The Honourable Richard Mostyn, Minister of Highways and Public Affairs for the Government of Yukon, added, “Aviation is critical to our modern northern lifestyle, and our government is working with our federal partners to support Yukon’s aviation industry to keep our communities connected. Throughout the pandemic, Yukon’s air carriers have ensured the transport of essential goods, medical supplies and health care workers to and from the territory. This funding will ensure they can continue to provide services that Yukoners rely on.”
