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Sault Ste. Marie Airport's Accessibility Survey: Shaping a More Inclusive Airport Experience

At the Sault Ste. Marie Airport, our dedication to accessibility extends beyond compliance, it is about creating a truly welcoming and inclusive environment for all travellers.

As we strive to enhance our services and facilities and create our Accessibility Plan, we’re introducing our new online accessibility survey, designed to gather feedback from individuals with disabilities based on their experiences at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.

The insights collected through this survey will play a crucial role in guiding us towards enhancing the airport experience for every passenger. By understanding the challenges and needs faced by our travellers, we can implement targeted improvements.

The survey is open to travellers of all abilities at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport. Please take this opportunity to share the survey with your networks and community members below.

 

The survey is multiple-choice with one open-ended question and is estimated to take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. All survey responses will be kept confidential. Additionally, participants will have the chance to enter a draw to win one of four Hogan’s Homestead gift certificates worth $50 each. The survey will close on April 14th.

Responses will contribute to the preparation of our Accessibility Plan. The Accessibility Plan will provide framework for the airport to continue and improve its efforts to provide a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible travel experience for people of all abilities. The plan will be co-created with the Sault Ste. Marie Airport’s community and accessibility partners to ensure a predictable, stress-free enjoyable experience for all passengers of all abilities.

We encourage members of our community to participate in the survey and share their experiences. Your feedback is invaluable to us and will shape the future of accessibility at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport. Together, we can ensure that every passenger feels welcome and supported throughout their journey at our airport. Thank you for helping us create a more accessible and inclusive airport.

Past

Absence of Sunwing clips Sault airport's January traffic

The number of passengers going through the Sault’s airport saw a slight drop last month.

But it was not unexpected that passenger levels dipped in January compared to the same month last year, a spokesperson for the airport says.

“Given the fact that Sunwing did not return for this winter season and Porter reduced service to one flight daily for the month of January, the drop in passenger levels is unfortunately not surprising,” Terry Bos, president & CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp., said in a news release.

“Although Porter has now returned to two flights daily, there is still no Sunwing which will continue to impact the months of February, March, and April negatively.”

In January, passenger levels were down 5.8% compared to January 2023.

Passenger levels are down 27% from pre-pandemic January 2019 levels, the airport added.

Here are numbers for traffic in January over the past six years:

  • January 2019: 16,309
  • January 2020: 15,185
  • January 2021: 1,619
  • January 2022: 4,937
  • January 2023: 11,739
  • January 2024: 11,060

The current flights provided are:

  • Air Canada Express two flights daily
  • Bearskin Airlines 2 flights Sunday, 3 flights daily Monday and Friday; 4 flights daily on Tuesday and Thursday; 6 flights on Wednesday
  • Porter 2 flights daily Sunday to Friday and one on Sunday

Sault Airport welcomed 160K passengers in 2023, up from previous year

Passenger levels in 2023 were up nearly 22 per cent from 2022, but still way lower than the 211K who passed through the airport in 2019, before pandemic hit Though passenger levels are up from a year ago, they’re still down from what they were prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Passenger levels in December were up two per cent from December 2022, but down 29 per cent from the same time in 2019, prior to the pandemic.  December 2023 saw 12,892 passengers pass through the airport, up slightly from 12,641 one year earlier. Overall in 2023, 160,406 passengers traveled through the airport, up from 131,901 in 2022.  In comparison, the airport saw 211,277 passengers travel through in 2019. In 2023, the busiest month for the airport was August when 16,425 passengers made their way through.

Last year by the end of November the airport had seen 131,901 passengers. That’s up to 147,514 this year to date, an increase of more than 15,000.

The airport said the current number of flights provided are as follows:

  • Air Canada Express two flights daily
  • Bearskin Airlines 2 flights Sunday, 3 flights daily Monday and Friday; 4 flights daily on Tuesday and Thursday; 6 flights on Wednesday
  • Porter 2 daily flights Sunday to Friday; and 1 daily on Saturday

Airport numbers continue slow climb in November

Year to date, Sault airport has seen 147,514 passengers, an increase of 15,000 over 2022.

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport continues to report a gradual ascent in passenger levels, although numbers remain down nearly 25 per cent when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The airport says in November, passenger levels were up 9.5% when compared to November of 2022. However, passenger levels were still down 26% from pre-pandemic November 2019 levels, the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. reported in its monthly update.

Meanwhile, year-to-date passenger levels from April to November have increased 7.2% compared to last year. This figure is down 24% from pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Looking at the month of November year to year, in 2019 there were 16,045 passengers, in 2020 there were 2,213, in 2021 there were 7,155, in 2022 there were 10,873 and in 2023 there were 11,910.

Last year by the end of November the airport had seen 131,901 passengers. That’s up to 147,514 this year to date, an increase of more than 15,000.

The airport said the current number of flights provided are as follows:

  • Air Canada Express two flights daily
  • Bearskin Airlines 2 flights Sunday, 3 flights daily Monday and Friday; 4 flights daily on Tuesday and Thursday; 6 flights on Wednesday
  • Porter 2 daily flights Sunday to Friday; and 1 daily on Saturday

October passengers levels were up 3 per cent compared to last October — but still down 24 per cent from pre-COVID traffic

In a news release, the Sault Ste. Marie Airport announced today that 14,316 passengers travelled through in October, up from 13,939 in October 2022 — a difference of three per cent.

The year-to-date (April to October) passenger levels are up 6.9 per cent from the same period last year, though it remains down 24 per cent from pre-pandemic (2019) levels.

 

Landing in the heart of a region known for adventure

Weathering All Storms to Maintain Canada’s Only Not-for-Profit Airport, Sault Ste Marie Airport takes flight

Billed as Canada’s Adventure Town, Sault Ste Marie offers a sense of unique charm with the excitement of adventure added in. Imagine flying in over the myriad of colors dotting the fall landscape – hills and mountains covered with color give way to deep reflective lakes, all the while on the shores of the Great Lakes and in the middle of, quite literally, everything.

“Sault Ste. Marie is actually at the heart of the Great Lakes, the heart of Ontario, and some will argue we’re also at the heart of Canada,” says Terry Bos, President, and CEO of Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation.

Read more here.

Airport passenger numbers still well below pre-pandemic levels

Passenger levels in September at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport dropped 6 per cent from the same time a year ago, marking the second such decrease year-over-year in the past three months.

Compared to September 2019 levels, passenger levels are down 22 per cent.

Read more here.

Government of Canada investing $660,000 in the Sault Ste. Marie airport

October 11, 2023 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministers of Labour and Seniors, today announced $660,000 in FedNor funding for the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC). The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.

FedNor’s support will enable SSMADC to construct a new 11,250 square foot building at the Sault Ste. Marie airport. The new facility will accommodate new growth for a large tenant who specializes in maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The project will provide a dedicated space for equipment, parts, and materials, which will open hangar floor area and introduce service for larger jets while continuing service for existing aircraft.

Read more here.

Terry Bos

25 years later, Sault Airport still flying on its own

Terry Bos, the airport’s longest-serving manager, is still proudly at the helm as the facility continues to slowly recover from the dark days of COVID-19

Read more here.

Sunwing unlikely to fly from the Sault this winter: airport CEO

Locals hoping to fly non-stop to Cuba this winter are out of luck.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport CEO Terry Bos told SooToday that Sunwing Airlines is not expected to return for the 2023-24 winter season amid an ongoing pilot and flight crew shortage.

“Unfortunately, it’s industry wide,” he says. “The airlines are all re-transferring into the major markets, which is why we’re seeing limited flights with our regular carriers and unfortunately not getting back the chartered season carriers either.”

Earlier this summer, Sunwing released its winter schedule, which includes flights from 23 airports to 26 sunny destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and the U.S.

Although Bos is yet to receive an official notice from Sunwing that the carrier will not be returning next winter, the Sault Ste. Marie Airport is not listed on the airline’s schedule.

Read more here.

$17,000 Raised in Support of The Ontario Finnish Resthome at the 20th Annual SSMADC Charity Golf Tournament!

This year’s golf tournament proceeds will provide much needed support towards The Ontario Finnish Resthome Association (OFRA) Common Area Improvement Project at Suomi Eesti Maja, OFRA’s independent living facility. Suomi Eesti Maja does not receive any government funding from any level. In Suomi Eesti Maja, OFRA provides the lowest rental rate for seniors’ independent living in all of Sault Ste. Marie.

We cannot forget to mention and recognize the overwhelming support we have received from our dedicated and enthusiastic participants and sponsors. Of particular note, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the dozens of companies who sponsored the 19th Annual SSMADC Charity Golf Tournament and the many volunteers. Without your sponsorship, time and dedication this tournament would not be possible. Thank you always for your continued support of our tournament and the local charities who benefit from your generosity.

Stall, reverse of pandemic recovery 'concerning': Airport president

Passenger numbers are still down 26% from pre-pandemic levels in July 2019 and slightly worse than they were last summer.

Terry Bos, President and CEO of the SSMADC noted, “It is concerning to see the recovery not only stall but move into reverse in July.  This only serves to reinforce that the recovery is going to be a long one and that regional markets are not seeing the same recovery of the large hub airports.”

Read the full article here.

Air Canada adds Sault summer departure

The airline starts offering a daily noon departure to the provincial capital beginning Canada Day. That gives Sault residents three options to head to The Big Smoke, joining existing 6 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. flights.

A 10 a.m. departure joins 2 p.m. and 8:40 p.m. options from Toronto to the Sault beginning Saturday.

The added flight option to Toronto “was certainly something we needed to see,” said Terry Bos, president and CEO of Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. “With the passenger levels we had last summer, we do need that flight here in order to maintain passenger levels.”

Read the full article here.

Airport fears Sunwing flights could be cut

Sunwing started weekly seasonal flights from the Sault in late 2008. Destinations have included Cuba, Dominican Republic and Mexico.

WestJet finished its acquisition of Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines this spring. Sunwing has 18 Boeing 737s.

Terry Bos, president and CEO of Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp., anticipates WestJet planes will fly passengers taking Sunwing Vacations. “Essentially WestJet is pulling the strings now in regards to where those aircraft are going to and what markets are more beneficial for them to fly those aircraft out of,” he told The Sault Star. “We’re trying to get clarification. Obviously we are concerned now at a regional market level that we probably could lose that flight because they’re probably going to redeploy those aircraft to the flights that are more lucrative for the WestJet and Sunwing brand to fly.”

Read the full article here.

Welcome aboard: New gift shop and restaurant now open at Sault Airport

A new restaurant and gift shop opens today at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport, with some brand new offerings in the works for travellers who have already passed through security.

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation had been in search for a new business to take on the lease of the vacant restaurant space at the airport. That search concluded with Hogan’s Homestead inking a deal to offer its products to travellers and staff of the airport.

Opening on Monday, the cafe and gift shop will be the fourth location for Hogan’s Homestead, said co-owner Erica Hogan.

Read the full article here.

Passenger Levels June 2023

A passenger movement comparison through May 2023 is provided below, in May passenger levels were 14% from last May, but still remain down 25% from pre-pandemic May 2019 levels.

 

Month 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
January 16,309 15,185 1,619 4,937 11,739
February 15,369 15,725 1,100 5,397 12,718
March 18,550 9,531 1,479 7,678 14,546
April 16,842 63 1,334 9,000 12,280
May 17,364 69 1,616 11,378 13,016
June 17,331 440 2,253 12,481
July 18,800 2,112 4,250 13,976
August 20,812 3,170 6,114 15,615
September 16,900 2,798 6,551 13,986
October 18,697 2,744 8,593 13,939
November 16,045 2,213 7,155 10,873
December 18,258 2,718 9,283 12,641
Total 211,277 56,768 51,347 131,901 51,283

 

The current number of flights provided is as follows: Air Canada Express two flights daily.  Bearskin Airlines has 2 flights Sunday, 3 flights daily Monday and Friday; 4 flights daily Tuesday and Thursday; 6 flights on Wednesday. Porter 2 daily flights Sunday to Friday; and 1 daily on Saturday.

Business of the Month: Sault airport has ridden out turbulent times in aviation

Do you know how close Sault Ste. Marie came to losing its airport in the 1990s?

Designated in airport code at YAM, the airport is a unique facility in its own right as the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) celebrates its 25th anniversary as an independent airport corporation. The operation continues to surprise the community amid plenty of recent turbulence.

Terry Bos, president and CEO of SSMADC since 2004, recently reflected on two-and-a-half decades of takeoffs and landings, ups and downs.

Read more here.

Hogan's Homestead soars high with The Sault Ste. Marie Airport

Hogan’s Homestead, a renowned purveyor of delectable maple syrup treats and unique gifts, is thrilled to announce their upcoming arrival at Sault Ste. Marie Airport, located at 475 Airport Road, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Beginning this summer, Hogan’s Homestead will be expanding their beloved Gift Shop into a Sweetly Mini Gift Shop inside the airport, offering an array of local foods, beverages, and much more.

Read more here.

Monthly passenger numbers dip at Sault airport

In a news release issued today, Terry Bos, the president of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation, noted that although April traffic was at 73 per cent of the pre-pandemic level, there are also much fewer seats available to purchase.

Below are the current flights available at the Sault airport:

• Air Canada Express: two flights daily

• Bearskin Airlines: two flights Sunday, three flights Monday and Friday, four flights Tuesday and Thursday, six flights on Wednesday

• Porter: two flights daily flights Sunday to Friday, one daily on Saturday

Read more here.

Aircraft skids off runway at Sault Airport

A Porter Airlines aircraft skidded off a runway after landing at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport late Sunday evening.

“Porter landed at about 10:20 last evening and went off the end of the runway and came to rest in a grassy area,” said Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation president and CEO.

“There were no injuries on board and there doesn’t appear to be any damage to the aircraft. We had people on site and we responded but there was no need for us to do any medical or fire services at all.”

Read more here.

Airport passenger totals showing signs of improvement

“2023 is certainly off to an encouraging start, with the passenger levels showing signs of recovery, after the much slower then anticipated October to December results. The 2023 performance year to date has been led by the strength of the Sunwing numbers,” said Terry Bos. SSMADC president and CEO.

Read more here.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation Celebrates 25 Years of Ownership of Sault Ste. Marie Airport

On March 28th, 2023 the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) celebrates 25 years of ownership of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.  The SSMADC was formed on April 26, 1996 in response to the Federal Government’s (1994) National Airports Policy.  After the province and the City of Sault Ste. Marie turned down taking ownership of the airport, and in order to stave off closure of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport, the SSMADC carried out a feasibility study and determined that a not-for-profit corporation could take ownership and save the airport.  The Sault Ste. Marie Airport is the only regional, local or small sized airport in the province that is owned and operated by a private not for profit corporation.  In fact, at the time of airport divesture it was one of only two airports in the country that became privately owned due to a lack of support from the local government.

Due to this ownership structure, the SSMADC is the only regional or smaller sized airport that must pay municipal taxes on it’s owned property.  As such, the airport must raise sufficient revenues from fees, concessions, and leases to meet its operating expenses, provide facilities for tenants, and pay municipal taxes.

The SSMADC has faced numerous challenges to make it through 25 years, the first of which was eliminating a million dollar a year deficit.  In 2000 the two national airline carriers Air Canada and Canadian merged into one, eliminating half of the airline service at the airport.  September 11, 2001 saw the terrorist attacks on the twin towers and the closing of airspace for a period of time.  Currently, the airport is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic that started in March 2020.

Despite these challenges, the airport has become financially self sufficient and viable while investing over 59 million dollars into infrastructure and equipment at the airport.  The SSMADC has a diverse family of tenants at the airport, and is always looking to attract more, whether that is additional airlines or more MRO type facilities.

Today to celebrate 25 years of ownership, the SSMADC is starting 4 new scholarships of $2,500 each for first year aviation program students at Sault College.  Sault College has one of the premier flight training programs in the country, and has a long relationship with the SSMADC.  SSMADC President & CEO Terry Bos noted, “It only seems a natural fit for the airport to provide financial assistance for new flight training students, not only supporting our tenant family member Sault College, but also assisting in addressing the world-wide pilot shortage.”  Additionally, on behalf of the SSMADC Board of Directors, donations are being made to the Sault College Student Union Emergency Food Bank, the Sault Ste. Marie Soup Kitchen, and Every Breakfast Counts.  SSMADC President & CEO Terry Bos noted, “The SSMADC Board of Directors recognizes the support of the community in helping the airport to succeed and wanted to give back to the community through these donations in recognition of our 25th anniversary owning the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.”

Northern Ontario airports seek funds to prevent fee hikes

Raising fees will increase airfares and hurt an industry that hasn’t fully recovered from the pandemic, says Sault Ste. Marie Airport CEO Terry Bos

Read more here

Airport CEO hopes Sunwing merger could lead to return of WestJet

Now that an airline routinely flying out of Sault Ste. Marie has been approved to merge with WestJet Airlines, Sault Ste. Marie Airport CEO Terry Bos said he hopes it could restart a conversation to have that Calgary-based carrier return to the Sault.

“I don’t think it’s any secret we have been trying to get WestJet to come back to the Sault,” said Bos by telephone on Tuesday.

Read more here

Passenger traffic on upward flightpath at Sault airport

Things are looking up at the airport.

Passenger traffic in February showed the second best performance in the past year compared to pre-pandemic levels, operators of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport say.

Read more here

Read our February Newsletter Now!

“Checking In”, our February Newsletter is available now! This issue features special promotions from Porter Airlines, Air Canada and Sunwing Airlines, helpful travel tips, an update on the Airport Restaurant and MORE!

Read more here

Leisure travel showing signs of recovery, Sault Airport says

While tourists heading to warmer climates helped traffic numbers at the Sault Ste. Marie airport in January, numbers are still down from their pre-pandemic levels, according to a Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. news release.

Passenger traffic at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport saw a “normal seasonal decline” in January from December, the development corporation said.

Traffic was at 12,641 for December, but dipped slightly to 11,864 for January.

Read more here

Airport traffic numbers up in the air

Sault Ste. Marie Airport passenger traffic in 2022 jumped 157 per cent over the same period in 2021, but this was still well down from 2019, the last full calendar year before the pandemic.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. President and CEO Terry Bos was able to find both good and worrying news from the figures in a news release.

“It was hoped for a strong December, however, a number of factors, most of which was the winter storms in Southern Ontario over the Christmas period, prevented December from achieving hoped for levels,” he said. “The calendar year (recovery) as a whole from previous year is encouraging, however, the slowing in that recovery since October is concerning.”

Read more here

Equipment failure causes flight cancellations at Sault airport

Overnight flights have been grounded at Sault Ste. Marie Airport after the de-icing system broke down Tuesday morning due to hydraulic failure.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Terry Bos says it’s his understanding that Executive Aviation, the airport’s fixed-base operator that handles a number of its ground operations, is currently in the process of hauling a backup de-icing unit to Sault Ste. Marie on a flatbed from London, Ont.

Read more here

Air passenger traffic sees decline in November: SSMADC

Passenger traffic in November decreased for the third month in a row, decreasing by 32 per cent compared to 2019 levels, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) said.

“It is disappointing to see passenger levels drop back to where they were in May at 68 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. It is very much looking like the early estimates that recovery would take three to five years to reach pre-pandemic levels were accurate,” Terry Bos, SSMADC president and CEO, said in the SSMADC news release.

Read more here

The winter season in Sault Ste. Marie heats up with weekly flights to Cayo Coco with Sunwing

TORONTO, Nov. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This winter, Sault Ste. Marie residents can once again experience the destination that inspired the works of Ernest Hemingway with a weekly flight to Cayo CocoCuba on board Sunwing Airlines, starting this December. Offering quintessential beach vacations in the Jardines del Rey island chain with a host of all inclusive resorts to call home, customers can recharge on Cayo Coco’s white-sand shores, explore colourful coral reefs or spot exotic species in the surrounding everglades and mangroves, including one of the world’s largest native pink flamingo colonies.

Read more here

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Allies with #NotInMyCity to Raise Awareness about Human Trafficking in Aviation

The two organizations and community partners are working together to help put a stop to human trafficking in the aviation sector

 

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON (November 9, 2022) – The Sault Ste. Marie Airport is pleased to share that it has partnered with #NotInMyCity to educate and raise stakeholder and community awareness regarding human trafficking in aviation within Canada.

#NotInMyCity is a facilitative organization that is raising awareness and taking collective action to prevent, disrupt and end sexual exploitation and trafficking, focusing on children and youth. In the transport sector, #NotInMyCity is a leading partner who is helping address human trafficking across several sectors and geographic areas in Canada, including the aviation industry.

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport will implement an e-learning and awareness program. the purpose of this program is to:

  • Provide all airport employees and stakeholders with knowledge and awareness about sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Canada with #NotInMyCity’s aviation focused e-learning platform. Members of the public are invited to learn more about the issue by taking a free e-learning coursefound at notinmycity.ca.
  • Allow airport employees to understand the signs of human trafficking, and knowing what to do if they suspect trafficking.
  • Implement informational signage and materials throughout the airport for all stakeholders and travelling public.
  • Report any and all signs of human trafficking, without causing harm.

“Collaborating with engaged partners in our community will enhance public safety. We will actively work with all partners and support the #NotInMyCity initiative, which will generate much needed awareness for the victims of human trafficking. We know victims are transported through the Sault Ste. Marie area. We continue to work to protect vulnerable people from predators who want to profit by victimizing others.” – Chief Hugh Stevenson, Sault Ste. Marie Police Service

Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and is the second largest source of illegal income worldwide. In Canada, 21 per cent of trafficking victims are under the age of 18. While making up only 4 per cent of the country’s population, 50 percent of Canada’s trafficking victims are Indigenous people.

“The H.O.P.E. Alliance is happy to partner with the Sault Ste. Marie Airport and #NotInMyCity to provide valuable education to airport staff as well as make resources available to travelers. We look forward to working together in the future and are grateful to the airport for their understanding of the prevalence of human trafficking and their willingness to combat it.” – Taylar Piazza, Chair of HOPE Alliance

According to the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, transportation corridors are frequently used by traffickers, and once a victim has been recruited, traffickers will often move them from city to city to maximize profits, access new markets and avoid competition. It also helps keep control of the victim who may not know where they are or how to get help, making it easier for traffickers to evade detection by police. Victims of labour trafficking may also enter Canada by way of air travel, under the false promise of a job or educational opportunity.

“Joining this growing mobilization against human trafficking is simply the right thing to do. The need for joining was reinforced by a presentation on Human Trafficking Prevention at the 2022 Airport Management Council of Ontario (AMCO) Annual Convention & Trade Show that took place in early October.” -Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation President & CEO.

#NotInMyCity offers an interactive e-learning course for anyone interested in learning more about the issue of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Canada. It was developed in collaboration with national and international thought leaders. Upon completion of the free 30-minute e-course, participants are awarded with a certificate. Thousands of individuals have completed the course so far.

In Ontario, anyone can call Canada’s Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010 if they believe they witnessing or are experiencing human trafficking or sexual exploitation. If anyone is in immediate danger, it is recommended to call 9-1-1.

Passenger Levels Still In Recovery Mode at Sault Airport

Passenger traffic in October saw a decrease from the levels attained in September; passenger levels were down 25% from the 2019 level.  A passenger movement comparison:

Month 2019 2020 2021 2022
January 16,309 15,185 1,619 4,937
February 15,369 15,725 1,100 5,397
March 18,550 9,531 1,479 7,678
April 16,842 63 1,334 9,000
May 17,364 69 1,616 11,378
June 17,331 440 2,253 12,481
July 18,800 2,112 4,250 13,976
August 20,812 3,170 6,114 15,615
September 16,900 2,798 6,551 13,986
October 18,697 2,744 8,593 13,939
November 16,045 2,213 7,155
December 18,258 2,718 9,283

 

The current number of flights provided by the three domestic airlines is as follows: Air Canada Express two flights daily.  Bearskin Airlines has 2 flights Sunday, 3 flights daily Monday and Friday; and 4 flights daily Tuesday to Thursday. Porter 2 daily flights Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday; 3 daily flights Monday, Thursday, Friday; and 1 daily on Saturday.

Terry Bos, SSMADC President & CEO stated: “At this point it appears that the recovery has essentially stagnated since June, outside of the nice surprise that was seen in September.  Outside of September levels since June have been down between 25% and 28% compared to the 2019 passenger levels.”

Sault airport traffic rebounds to 17% of pre-pandemic levels

“Even with the seasonal decline, the overall comparison for the month compared to pre-pandemic did show an improvement,” said Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation president Terry Bos in a news release. “This being the first month since the pandemic hit that passenger traffic has been within 20 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.”

Read more here.

Remembering those who stopped Nazi invasion

Elected officials, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25, cadets and members of the public gathered at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport on a drizzly morning to remember pilots from Canada, the United Kingdom and other countries who died fighting off the threat of Nazi invasion of Britain in 1940 at the annual Battle of Britain memorial ceremony, Sept. 25, 2022.

Read more here.

September Newsletter-Now Available!

“Checking In”, our September Newsletter is available Now! This issue features special promotions from Porter and Sunwing Airlines this winter, helpful travel tips, job openings at the SSMADC, info on a new ground transportation provider, an update on the recovery of air transportation in Canada and MORE! ✈️

Read more here.

Sault airport reports increase in passenger traffic

Sault Ste. Marie Airport reports an increase in passenger traffic in August that started to grow in February this year.

The current number of flights provided by the three domestic airlines is as follows: Air Canada Express three flights daily. Bearskin Airlines has reduced to two flights Sunday, three flights daily Monday and Friday; and four flights daily Tuesday to Thursday. Porter two daily flights Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday; three daily flights Monday, Thursday, Friday; and 1 daily on Saturday.

“It was encouraging to see the recovery trend continue through August, likely due to the return of in class schooling at both Algoma University and Sault College,” stated Terry Bos, SSMADC president & CEO. “The fall will bring new challenges in seeing if business travel returns in order to offset the end of the summer leisure travel season. The return of Sunwing Airlines in December for weekly winter service to the sun destination of Cuba on Tuesdays will provide a winter service that has not occurred the past two winters which should provide a boost come December.”

Read more here.

August Newsletter-Now Available!

“Checking In”, our August Newsletter is available now! This issue features special promotions from Porter Airlines, the return of Sunwing Airlines this winter, helpful travel tips, an article on our amazing airline staff, our 19th Annual Charity Golf Tournament results, an update on the recovery of air transportation in Canada and MORE! ✈️

Read more here.

Numbers 'encouraging,' but long way to go, says airport CEO

Though still down from what they were pre-pandemic, passenger levels continue to rise month-over-month at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport in 2022.

A total of 13,976 passengers passed through the terminal in July, up from 12,481 in June.

Read more here.

LETTER: Great local airline employees went above and beyond

We are so happy to have been blessed by many kind people along our vacation journey

Read more here.

Still below 2019 levels, airport traffic continues to climb

Airlines represented at the Sault Airport increased passenger capacity in May of this year in order to meet the growing demand

Read more here.

CLA Benefits From Annual Golf Tournament

“We are fortunate to be one of the four recipients of the proceeds generated from this year’s 19th Annual Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation Golf tournament being held at Crimson Ridge on August 19, 2022. ” said Lezlie Wilson, Executive Assistant with CLA.

Read more here.

July Newsletter Now Available!

“Checking In” July Newsletter is available now! This issue features our friends at Sault Academy of Flight, helpful travel tips, airline route information, our Annual Charity Golf Tournament beneficiaries and MORE! ✈️
Sign up to receive the newsletter right to your email!

Read more here.

Fewer cancellations expected with Air Canada decision, says Bos

‘We’re hoping the changes Air Canada has made will eliminate the short-term cancellations and they’ll be able to fly their full schedule,’ says CEO

Read more here.

Ontario's airports need more cash: AMCO study

Terry Bos, CEO of Sault Ste. Marie’s Airport, said the Study of Ontario’s Airports and Aerodromes show that major challenges continue to plague Ontario’s airports, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, federal regulatory changes, municipal financial pressures and decreasing political and public will.

Read more here.

Northern Ontario reaction to vaccine travel requirement ending

The Canadian government is dropping the requirement that domestic and outbound international travellers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, effective June 20.
Terry Bos, the president and CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation, told CTV News this will help “travel bottleneck,” which has trickled down to northern Ontario airports in the last several weeks.

Read more here.

Give Hope Wings Expedition Stops in Sault Ste. Marie

As Hope Air’s move through the Ontario leg of their journey, on June 13th, 2022 the Give Hope Wings expedition stopped at Sault Ste. Marie with a warm welcome from BMO Financial Group, Royal Purple Sault Ste Marie #155 and Sault Ste. Marie Airport. Hope Air patient Shawna was there to share her journey with those in attendance highlighting the importance of access to vital medical care.

Learn about how you can support Hope Air here.

June Newsletter Now Available!

Our June issue of our e-newsletter “Checking In” is available now! This month’s issue includes the latest deals from our airline partners, a welcome to Great Lakes Maskwa Aviation, information on the SSMADC Annual Charity Golf Tournament, event updates and so much more! ✈️
Sign up to receive the newsletter right to your email!

Read more here.

Sault airport CEO encouraged by upward trending traffic numbers

Passenger levels through the Sault Ste. Marie Airport continue to trend upward in the first four months of 2022.

The independently-operated authority reported 9,000 travellers moved through the terminal in April, following up on the 7,678 passengers recorded in March, 5,397 in February and 4,937 in January.

Read more here.

May Newsletter Now Available!

Our May issue of our e-newsletter “Checking In” is available now! Including the latest deals from our airline partners, operational updates, airline route information and more!
Sign up to receive the newsletter right to your email!

Read more here.

Sault Ste. Marie airport traffic trending upward

Passenger levels are down over 65 per cent from January 2020 when the number stood at 15,185.

The development corporation said the airlines stabilized capacity in February to try and match passenger demand.

Learn more here.

SooToday readers, local businesses help raise over $8,000 for Women in Crisis

We at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport are proud to support Women In Crisis – Algoma Inc. through this effort to promote gender equality, empower women and assist women facing adversity in our community along side SooToday.com and many other local businesses! #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2022 #EmpoweredWomenEmpowerWomen

Learn more here.

‘It’s something I thought I’d never be able to do in high school’ says Grade 12 aviation student

The SSMADC is happy to support the Aviation and Aerospace Program to introduce the youth of our community to all of the amazing career opportunities in aviation!

Learn more here.

Government of Canada lightens border measures as part of transition of the pandemic response

Recent data indicates that the latest wave of COVID-19 driven by the Omicron variant has passed its peak in Canada. As provinces and territories adjust their public health measures, and as we transition away from the crisis phase, it is now time to move towards a more sustainable approach to long-term management of COVID-19.

Learn more here.

Airport records dismal January passenger numbers

The fall comes after the airport reached the highest level of traffic in December since the start of the pandemic.

Learn more here.

Air passenger traffic down 55 per cent from 2019

Passenger traffic in December saw an increase from November, reaching the highest level since the start of the pandemic

Learn more here.

Sault airport closes out uncertain year

While passenger totals at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport have rebounded somewhat, officials say the airport is a long way from pre-pandemic levels.

However, they say they’re slightly more optimistic heading into the New Year than they were at this time last year.

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Learn more here.

New international testing requirements come into effect just as airport traffic showing signs of recovery

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport recently reported its two best months during the pandemic, just as new restrictions for people travelling into Canada have come into effect.

A pre-arrival negative molecular COVID-19 test result is required to enter the country as of tomorrow.

“What was announced is ‘what’s old is new again’ because all they have done in this instance is reinstate the test that is required for those who are gone less than 72 hours to the U.S.,” said Terry Bos, president and CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp.

Learn more here.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. reports lower passenger levels for November

November passenger traffic at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport was down from October numbers, according to the SSMADC’s passenger level report this month.

Terry Bos, SSMADC president and CEO says that is a normal decline, but it highlights the long road to recovery.

Learn more here.

Traffic up at Sault Ste. Marie airport for the fourth month in a row

October’s airport traffic report shows another increase over last year’s number and September’s.

Porter’s return to the Sault stimulated the rise in traffic, said Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation President & CEO.

Learn more here.

Passenger levels continue climbing at Sault Airport

“Passenger levels continued an encouraging trend and aircraft were flying at above normal capacity levels,” Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport President and CEO, said.

The numbers, however, are still down more than 70 per cent from 2019 levels.

“Air Canada has since added a third daily flight after Labour Day which will hopefully provide for continued encouraging passenger level recovery,”

Learn more here.

Our September issue of Checking in is available! Including information on local COVID-19 testing to travel internationally, updates on our runway construction project and so much more! Sign up to receive the newsletter right to your email!

Sault Ste. Marie Airport to Host the 35th Annual Airport Management Council of Ontario Annual Convention and Tradeshow!

OCT. 3-6, 2021

Learn more here.

Sault Airport passenger numbers begin to rebound

Statistics show 4,250 passengers travelled through the airport in July, and CEO Terry Bos remains cautiously optimistic that the bounce back is beginning.

“I was hoping we’d reach that 4,000 passenger mark and we did a little more than that so that was a pleasant surprise,” he said.

The reopening of the Ontario economy and the loosening of provincial restrictions have contributed to what Bos hopes is the start of resuming air travel.

“I think this shows there is a pent up demand to visit family and friends and we really hope these numbers build again in August,” he said.

Learn more here.

Newly launched airline offering charter service from the Sault

Rick Biemann chuckles recalling the time he had to fly an overly circuitous route around Ontario just to get to the northern reaches of the province.

After catching a commercial flight in Sault Ste. Marie, Biemann landed in Toronto, hopped on a connecting flight to Barrie, and then boarded a charter flight to make the rest of the trip north.

Without private flight service available in the Sault, Biemann had no choice but to make the multi-stop journey, a frustrating and time-consuming adventure.

Learn more here.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Corporation is receiving more than $2.15M from federal government to maintain regional connectivity and jobs

Regional air transportation is crucial to local economic growth, the movement of goods and the connectivity of Canadians across the country. The pandemic has had major impacts on regional air transportation ecosystems, affecting communities and local businesses from coast to coast to coast.

The Government of Canada’s Regional Air Transportation Initiative (RATI), launched in March 2021, supports access to air transportation and regional ecosystems. In particular, it enables the continuation of existing air routes and ensures airports remain operational and able to contribute to regional economic growth, while adapting to new post-COVID-19 realities and requirements.

Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced more than $2.15 million in financial support for the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC). This non-repayable contribution will help mitigate the financial pressures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic by supporting the operations of the Sault Ste. Marie airport for a one-year period. The project is expected to help maintain 13 local jobs.

Learn more here.

Government of Canada announces easing of border measures for fully vaccinated travellers

The Government of Canada is prioritizing the health and safety of everyone in Canada by taking a risk-based and measured approach to re-opening our borders. Thanks to the hard work of Canadians, rising vaccination rates and declining COVID-19 cases, the Government of Canada is able to move forward with adjusted border measures.

On September 7, 2021, provided that the domestic epidemiologic situation remains favourable, the Government intends to open Canada’s borders to any fully vaccinated travellers who have completed the full course of vaccination with a Government of Canada-accepted vaccine at least 14 days prior to entering Canada and who meet specific entry requirements.

As a first step, starting August 9, 2021, Canada plans to begin allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents, who are currently residing in the United States, and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering Canada for non-essential travel. This preliminary step allows for the Government of Canada to fully operationalize the adjusted border measures ahead of September 7, 2021, and recognizes the many close ties between Canadians and Americans.

Learn more here.

Airport experts in Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie both say they're seeing more passengers, additional flights

Air traffic in and out of the Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie airports is starting to pick up with more passengers on planes, but their Chief Executive Officers say they’re not out of the woods just yet.

The aviation industry took a big hit because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-essential travel was non-existent over the 16 months, and many airports struggled.

Now that restrictions are lifting, and more people are fully vaccinated, things are looking up for those who work in aviation.

 

Learn more here.

June airport passenger traffic up slightly over May

“The trend in passenger levels is certainly encouraging and the aircraft arrivals later in the month certainly seemed fuller,” said Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) president and CEO, in a news release issued today.

 

Learn more here.

More Porter! More places!
Fly with us throughout North America in our new planes

The Porter flying refined service that you already love is extending – to dozens of popular destinations throughout North America. We’re excited that up to 80 brand new state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft will be added to our fleet to take you to these new destinations.

 

Learn more here.

Sault Based Air Service Begins Operations!

Shaire Inc. today announces the start of commercial air charter operations across Ontario, Canada, and beyond, with the option to “Shaire” flights with other passengers.

Shaire Inc., based in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, is an air charter service, providing ride-sharing options, customized executive and personal air travel services to clients for regional and short trans-border flights.

Learn more here.

It’s official! ✈️ Porter Airlines is returning to the skies on September 8th. Service to the Sault Ste. Marie Airport will return on October 6th with two daily flights to Toronto!

We are officially returning to the skies on Sept. 8. So it’s your opportunity to get on a flight to visit the people you love.

Nearly 18 months have passed since we suspended flights due to COVID-19 public health and travel restrictions. Our team members are looking forward to seeing you again, and the communities we serve.

Learn more here.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport, yesterday and today (15 photos)

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport has served as a highly important link from the community to other parts of Ontario – mainly to Toronto, and from there, to all of Canada, the U.S. and the rest of the world – for nearly 60 years.

 

Learn more here.

Government of Canada's first phase to easing border measures for travellers entering Canada

The Government of Canada is taking a responsible, precautionary approach at the border by continually monitoring available data and scientific evidence to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

Today, the Government of Canada is announcing the details of the first phase of its approach to easing border measures for travellers entering Canada. These cautious adjustments are now possible because of the successes of the vaccine roll out in Canada and Canadians following public health measures.

Beginning July 5, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. EDT, fully vaccinated travellers who are permitted to enter Canada will not be subject to the federal requirement to quarantine or take a COVID-19 test on day-8. In addition, fully vaccinated travellers arriving by air will not be required to stay at a government-authorized hotel.

Learn more here.

Our flights will now restart July 20

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until July 20 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.

 

Learn more here.

Sault Airport gets $9M for upgrades
Infrastructure renewal will begin in June and be completed by September.

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport will receive a little more than $9 million to bring the runway, taxiways and drainage system up to modern day standards, making it one of the largest projects in the airport’s history.

The funding will be added to the airport’s contribution of $4.8 million to begin construction next month with a target completion date of September, said Terry Bos, President and CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp.

Learn more here.

‘Biggest project in Sault airport’s history’ will modernize runways, continue medical flights

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) is celebrating federal government funding for what Terry Bos, the airport’s president and CEO, hailed as “the biggest project in the history of the airport.”

Sault MP Terry Sheehan announced over $9 million in funding from Transport Canada’s Airport Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) via Zoom Thursday for infrastructure improvements and an equipment purchase for the airport.

Learn more here

Disabled MNRF water bomber blocks runway at Sault Airport

Crews are working to remove a water bomber from the runway at Sault Ste. Marie Airport after the aircraft reportedly made a successful landing without landing gear Sunday afternoon.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport President and CEO Terry Bos tells SooToday the incident involving a CL 415 water bomber belonging to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) happened at approximately 12:30 p.m. Sunday.

A statement from the MNRF Communications and Media Relations Specialist too Soo Online, Isabelle Chenard says they are investigating.

“This afternoon, one of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s CL415 waterbombing aircraft made a hard landing at the Sault Ste Marie International Airport. The aircraft had been performing a routine test flight. There were no injuries to flight crew onboard, which included a pilot and co-pilot,” said Chenard.

“A team from Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services is currently on scene to remove the aircraft from the runway. Our Aviation Services Section will be working with the Transportation Safety Board on this investigation.”

No injuries have been reported.

NAV CANADA confirmed today that it will maintain air traffic control service to Canadian communities, including Fort McMurray AB, Prince George BC, Regina SK, Saint-Jean QC, Sault Ste. Marie ON, Whitehorse YT and Windsor ON.

Last fall, NAV CANADA launched 29 aeronautical studies in an effort to safely streamline its operations, ensuring that air navigation services align with market demand. After considerable consultation with airlines, airports, industry associations, local officials and internal stakeholders, NAV CANADA has elected to limit changes to services across the country.

Learn more here.

CANADA: Air Canada, Ottawa agree to aid package worth up to $5.9 billion

The package, which gives Canada a six-per-cent stake in the country’s biggest airline, also requires the Montreal-based company to maintain employment at levels no lower than those at April 1.

Learn more here.

Porter Airlines reschedules tentative return to service date to June 21, 2021

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until June 21 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Learn more here.

Bill's passage could save Sault Airport control tower

Windsor West MP Brian Masse, a New Democrat, introduced a private members bill Tuesday which would provide the Transport Minister with the power to remove airports from NAV Canada studies to reduce or eliminate air traffic control services.

NAV Canada (which owns and operates Canada’s civil air navigation system) announced, in Nov. 2020, the launch of a study considering the removal of control towers at seven airports across Canada, including the control tower at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.

“This legislative change will allow the Transport Minister to take practical and decisive action to remove…airports from the NAV Canada study,” Masse stated in a news release.

“When NAV Canada announced this study the Transport Minister stated he could not act to protect airports because of the law. With this legal change he will be able to save not only the airport in Windsor but airports across the country,” Masse wrote.

Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) president and CEO, described the bill as “certainly interesting” in an email to SooToday.

Learn more here.

Sault College aviation program expands fleet with an advanced new aircraft

Orazietti said student pilots need the guidance of a fully staffed air traffic control tower. Terry Bos, CEO of the Sault Ste Marie Airport, agrees.

“We’re going to need a tower in order to be able to have them all flying at once,” Bos said. “And I’m sure the college wants to fly as much as we want to see them fly, and the more traffic there is here, the better it is.”

Bos said the expansion of Sault College’s Aviation Program strengthens the case for keeping the Sault’s air traffic control tower staffed.

Learn more here.

Air traffic still down in the Sault due to pandemic

As we approach the one year mark since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, air travel continues to be impacted by travel restrictions related to the virus.

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport continues to report a downward trend in air passenger traffic. A press release issued by the development corporation today states air passenger traffic dropped 93 per cent from last February.

Learn more here.

Sault Airport’s control tower needed as college rebuilds aviation program

In spite of past and current challenges, Sault College’s aviation program is expanding and preparing for better days beginning in the 2021-22 academic year.

A new concern for the college is the possible closure of seven airport control towers across Canada – including the control tower at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport – by Ottawa-based Nav Canada (which owns and operates Canada’s civil air navigation system) as the company cuts jobs in the country’s COVID-ravaged aviation industry.

“We’ve presented twice to Nav Canada why this is not a good idea, given Sault College’s flight program, and we sent some more information to them today, so we’re trying to make a strong argument that that tower needs to stay right where it is,” said Ron Common, Sault College president, speaking to SooToday in a telephone interview after the college’s monthly board of governors meeting Thursday.

If the control tower at the Sault Airport is shut down, pilots would receive air traffic information from other sources but would still be mainly on their own during takeoff or landing.

Common said “our students, in order to get control zone experience, would have to fly over to other cities that have control zones, and that’s not optimal that they would do that.”

Learn more here.

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until May 19 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.

We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

Porter is preparing to introduce enhanced health and safety measures for its return to service. Details of these initiatives will be announced closer to when flights restart, so that plans are as closely aligned with the latest public health recommendations as possible.

To provide flexibility and give travellers peace of mind when purchasing for future travel, Porter is waiving change and cancellation fees on all fares booked between today and May 19. This also applies to Porter Escapes vacation packages.

Learn more here.

Sault airport surviving on reserves

Airport president and CEO says a Nav Canada scale back at the airport might make things a bit more difficult but won’t negatively impact air traffic.

As reported earlier by SooToday, Nav Canada is considering scaling back its presence at the airport, said Terry Bos, Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation’s president and CEO.

“Having a tower allows you to have more movements than if we only had an advisory service, so it is important for the amount of movements that we have, especially for the Sault College training movements. But it doesn’t affect the actual airport itself. The airport is separate from Nav Canada so the airport can still stay open and function.”

Nav Canada provides aeronautical services throughout Canada.

“Here in Sault Ste Marie we have what’s called a control tower, which means the people up in our tower control the aircraft in our zone and they tell them where to go, when to go and when to land,” Bos said, “If you don’t have a control tower you use an advisory service, which is a service that provides advice to pilots and tells them what to watch out for.”

Bos compares the two to driving up to a traffic light. “You see green, yellow, or red lights and know whether to go or stop. If you pull up to a yield sign, it’s up to you whether you go or not, which is like an advisory service,” he said.

Click here to read more.

Airport wants $2M from assistance fund

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. wants to tap about $2 million from a new federal program to assist Canadian airports during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The cash would help “soften the blow” of a steep drop in revenue the private, not-for-profit corporation has dealt with since last March, president and chief executive officer Terry Bos told The Sault Star.
SSMADC would split the federal dollars between the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 fiscal years.

The Sault is just one of only two regional airports in Canada that don’t have ties to municipal or regional governments. The airport must raise its own revenue through user fees, leases, parking and improvement fees to cover operational and capital expenses.

Click here to read more.

Terry Bos calls for government intervention to aid airport recovery

Passenger levels at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport remain at record lows as the facility continues to grapple with travel restrictions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

In January, passenger traffic was down 89.3 per cent from the previous year and down 89.8 per cent for the fiscal year between April 2020 and January 2021.

Air traffic movements have also seen a drastic reduction from the previous year’s levels.

In November, there were 3,684 aircraft movements, a reduction of 18.7 per cent from the previous year.

That’s an improvement from April, however, when traffic was at its lowest, with 575 movements, a decrease of 91 per cent from April 2019.

Click here to read more.

Conflicting messages on future of Sault airport

SAULT STE. MARIE — The union representing air traffic controllers is sounding the alarm over layoffs at regional airports, including the Sault Ste Marie Airport.

The Canadian Air Traffic Control Association said Friday tower closures are a serious public safety concern, with the association’s president questioning why NAV Canada would close the Sault Airport’s tower.

“It’s even in NAV Canada’s documentation, the threshold to close a tower is around the 60,000 movement mark – Sault Ste Marie is above the 60,000 movement mark,” said Doug Best. “That’s why we don’t quite understand why Sault Ste Marie is actually on the cutting block.”

However, airport CEO Terry Bos said no air traffic controllers have been laid off and a service review is underway by NAV Canada.

“They have not made a decision or recommendation on the status here,” said Bos.

“We do understand and we are aware that they have issued vulnerability notices to their employees as part of the process. The process itself does not finish until, I believe, March or April. And it’s May or June before they bring a recommendation to Transport Canada.”

Bos said Transport Canada has the final say on the future of the air traffic control tower.

Meantime, NAV Canada says the outcome of its service review is in no way predetermined.

Click here to read more.

Review could see air traffic control removed from Sault airport

SAULT STE. MARIE — Sault Ste. Marie’s airport could soon see its air traffic control service altered or removed.

Navigation Canada, the non-profit organization in charge of operating towers at airports across the country, has launched an assessment to see if continuing service is warranted.

“That could result in reduced hours or a switch to an advisory service,” said Terry Bos, CEO of the Sault’s airport.

Bos said an advisory service would be less than ideal for the airport, making landing and taking off much more challenging.

“That’s more like if you’re driving around and you hit a yield sign, you determine what you’re going to do and you go,” he said. “So the controller tells people what to do, the advisor just basically gives them advice and they have to kind of figure it out amongst themselves.”

 

Click here to read more.

Petition aims to annex west-end Sault property for Prince Township

The issue could also affect the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. President and CEO Terry Bos said the board did receive information on the petition and is currently completing its due diligence before making any decision as to whether it will support the petition.

At issue are tax dollars and the need to diversify its operations to remain self sufficient, Bos said.

He admits the Horizon Landing development – which would be much-needed revenue for the airport, and a 40 per cent reduction of tax bills, are important factors for the board to consider.

Alternatively, he said he understands that Prince Township might be forced to raise its taxes if it needs to provide additional services, or faces higher contract fees if the relationship with the City of Sault Ste. Marie changes.

 

Click here to read more.

Porter Airlines adjusts planned restart date to March 29

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until March 29 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.

We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

Click here to read more.

Airport expects long wait for passengers

Sault Ste. Marie Airport projects it’ll take five years for passenger numbers to return to volumes seen prior to the pandemic.

The airport will come “pretty close” to hitting about 210,000 passengers in 2024-2025 before finally returning to pre-COVID-19 numbers in 2025-2026.

Click here to read more.

Airport wants air traffic controllers to stay

Sault Ste. Marie Airport wants flight-control service at its site to be maintained because of an expected return to pre-pandemic traffic levels followed by additional growth driven by an expanded Sault College flight training program.

NAV Canada, the private, non-profit corporation responsible for air traffic control, airport advisory services, weather briefings and aeronautical information, is reviewing service levels at six Canadian airports, including the Sault.

Click here to read more

Sault airport cuts more than 40 per cent of jobs (updated)

Airport CEO Terry Bos confirmed to SooToday that eight of the nine cuts to staff are permanent.

Bos says the positions that have been reduced are equipment operators and administrative staff.

The corporation employed 22 people pre-pandemic, including five winter seasonal workers. They’re now down to 14, including one part-timer.

When asked if this would impact airport operations, Bos stated that it has had an impact on winter operational hours.

The airport CEO also confirmed that despite a reduction in air traffic, air traffic control is currently still operational at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.

Click here to read more.

Pandemic pains leave Sault airport CEO with 'tough decisions' ahead

When Terry Bos perused the almost $800-million federal aid package rolled out for the struggling aviation sector, he read little that provided him with a sense of relief.

“There, in essence, is nothing for regional airports,” said the CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation in summing up the air sector package released in the federal Fall Economic Statement in early December.

Click here to read more.

Santa Claus Parade saw 1000+ cars

Airport officials say 1030 cars rolled through the airport to salute the OPP, Fire Services from both Prince Township and the Soo, Paramedic Services, Anishnabek Police Services, Canada Border Services, Sault Area Hospital and even Dash from the Soo Greyhounds.

Click here to read more

Council ignores request by developer to support minister's zoning orders

SalDan Developments Ltd. Is proposing a $70-million housing developments on lands currently owned by the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. and other property formerly proposed as the contentious Pointe Estates subdivision.

The developer was asking city council to support its request to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to enact a minister’s zoning order for the rezoning of the lands to be developed as a mixed-used residential subdivision with affordable housing.

Click here to read more.

Santa to visit ‘frozen parade’ at Sault Airport

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. will host a “frozen parade” this Saturday, Dec. 19, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Sault Airport.
The parade is a salute to first responders for what they do, especially this year dealing with COVID-19, says a media release from the corporation. The parade also offers a chance to see Santa, who has been invited to the event.
This is a “drive-through parade” because of the coronavirus restrictions, the release says. Visitors should drive through at slow speed, never stopping and remaining in their vehicles at all times.

Click here to read more

Porter Airlines adjusts planned restart date to Feb. 11

The Give Hope Wings expedition created awareness for the charity and raised $122,056 to provide 488 flights for patients in need. Flights are especially important for patients who live in these areas who would have to drive or take a bus for several hours each way to reach specialists. Last year, Hope Air provided more than 13,000 travel arrangements to help Canadians, including commercial flights and flights with volunteer pilots. Previous Give Hope Wings expeditions have raised a total of $770,000 to fund more than 3,000 flights.

Click here to read more.

Air Canada Reports Third Quarter 2020 Results

Today’s results reflect COVID-19’s unprecedented impact on our industry globally and on Air Canada in what has historically been our most productive and profitable quarter. From the outset, we have made the health and safety of our customers and employees our chief concern. Our airline has been a leader in introducing progressive layers of protection, such as our comprehensive suite of biosafety measures, Air Canada CleanCare+, and we continue to explore new technologies and processes to further assure travellers and regulators

Click here to read more.

Air Canada to drop to one flight a day to Toronto

In the midst of the ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic and an increase of cases in Ontario, Air Canada is dropping one of its daily flights between the Sault Ste. Marie and Toronto.

Click here to read more.

The SSMADC is proud to support Hope Air, a unique national charity that arranges free flights for Canadians who are in financial need & must travel to access health care.

The Give Hope Wings expedition created awareness for the charity and raised $122,056 to provide 488 flights for patients in need. Flights are especially important for patients who live in these areas who would have to drive or take a bus for several hours each way to reach specialists. Last year, Hope Air provided more than 13,000 travel arrangements to help Canadians, including commercial flights and flights with volunteer pilots. Previous Give Hope Wings expeditions have raised a total of $770,000 to fund more than 3,000 flights.

Click here to read more.

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until December 15 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.

We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

Click here to read more.

Airport Continues To See Record Low Passenger Volumes

Terry Bos President and CEO of the SSMADC stated “As a result of the pandemic, revenue for fiscal year 2020/2021 is expected to drop over $2.0M operational revenue or 57% and $1.5M capital revenue or 74%.  With the recovery period being projected to be even longer then first feared a number of difficult decisions needed to be made to better align expenses, which a number of expenses are fixed, with the projected revenue.  Workforce reductions impacted total to date 45% of employees”

Click here to read more.

Weighty decisions ahead for Sault airport, faced with precipitous drop in air travel

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation has experienced an overall 92 per cent drop in passenger traffic over the last six months since the onset of the pandemic in April.

The private not-for-profit corporation released passenger and aircraft movement numbers for September, showing an 83.4 per cent drop in passenger numbers and 81 per cent fewer flights compared to the same time in 2019.

Click here to read more.

APH confirms new case of COVID-19 in Algoma

Algoma Public Health (APH) confirmed another new case of COVID-19 in the Algoma District.

The report issued by APH states, “Anyone who travelled on Air Canada flight 8317 on Sept. 22, 2020, seated in rows 4-8 inclusive should contact Algoma Public Health at 705-759-5404 (toll-free 1-866-892-0172, ext. 5404) or their local public health unit.”

Click here to read more.

Pilots, patients, join forces at Sault Airport for flying fundraiser

A group of Hope Air pilots and patients/clients greeted each other at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Thursday morning, as Hope Air pilots are currently flying across northern Ontario and Quebec Sept. 30 to Oct. 4 to raise awareness and funds for Hope Air in a flying fundraiser named Give Hope Wings.

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Airports in Sudbury, across North seek government help to cope with COVID-19

Indeed, many other Northeastern airports saw a similar decline in the second quarter of the year — North Bay down 99 per cent (216 flights, compared to 19,614 in 2019); Sault Ste. Marie down 99 per cent (572 compared to 55,537); and Sudbury down 92 per cent (4,634 compared to 61,186).

Not surprisingly, those airports have also taken a hit financially. Sault Ste. Marie faces an operational deficit of $450,300, compared to a profit of $515,590 in 2019, while North Bay has a deficit of $200,199, compared to a profit of $99,394 the previous year, and Timmins has a deficit of $853,000, compared to a profit of $90,000 in 2019.

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Airport not expected to recover from COVID-19 until 2024, council learns

The COVID-19 pandemic has so far cost Sault Ste. Marie Airport more than $3.3 million, Ward 3 Coun. Matthew Shoemaker says.

“It has dropped from 214,000 passengers last year to less than 65,000 this year,” said Shoemaker, indicating the statistics were provided to him by airport officials.

“Recovery is not expected to hit the levels they were at in 2019 until 2024. They’re looking at four more years of decreased revenue.”

“As a result of the cutbacks from their loss of revenue, they have reduced their staffing levels 45 per cent or 8.5 full-time positions.”

“It is a resource we need in order to be able to connect to the world outside, not just our municipal borders but also outside our national borders.”

 

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Sault airport embraces uptick in August passenger traffic

Regular passenger levels aren’t expected to return to Sault Ste. Marie Airport until 2023 or 2024 as travelers slowly return to air travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The prolonged downturn will strain Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp.’s finances, prompting its president and chief executive officer to call for help from the provincial and federal governments.

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Porter Airlines flights to restart November 12

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until November 12 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.
We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

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Feds watching aviation sector 'very closely'

Sault Ste. Marie Airport wants financial help from the federal government to ride out a major drop in revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Transport Canada spokesperson says the federal ministry is in touch with airports and watching what’s happening in the “hard-hit” aviation sector very closely.

 

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Airport wants to land government help

Regular passenger levels aren’t expected to return to Sault Ste. Marie Airport until 2023 or 2024 as travelers slowly return to air travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The prolonged downturn will strain Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp.’s finances, prompting its president and chief executive officer to call for help from the provincial and federal governments.

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Porter Airlines flights to restart November 12

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until October 7 due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.
We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

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Sault Airport traffic still at record lows

Passenger numbers and aircraft movements through the Sault Ste. Marie Airport were up marginally in July, but still remained at record lows due to the pandemic.
The airport development corporation recorded 2,112 passengers through the terminal last month, down 88.8 per cent from the last month last year.

 

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Upgrades on hold, hotel plan up in the air as pandemic continues to impact Sault airport

Airports and airlines across the world were hit by unprecedented turbulence when COVID-19 appeared on the radar.
Prior to COVID, Sault Ste. Marie’s airport had some lofty plans in the works.
A story in the March 2020 edition of Northern Ontario Business said the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. was planning a $5-million multi-stage upgrade of airport amenities, including a redesigned parking lot, the construction of a new hotel and possibly a new flight-training business.

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Air Canada To Increase Flights In Sault Ste. Marie

As the Sault Ste. Marie Airport continues to monitor developments related to the spread of Covid-19. Air Canada will be increasing flights to Sault Ste. Marie as of Monday August 10.
Air Canada returned to Sault Ste. Marie on June 24th but only offering 1 daily flight Monday- Friday. Now, Air Canada will be offering two daily flights 7-days a week.

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440 travelers passed through the Sault Airport in June

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport is reporting that 440 passengers passed through in the month of June.

This marks a significant increase from the 132 total passengers reported to have travelled through the Sault in April and May combined, when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its peak.

In a press release issued today, the airport’s development corporation stated that it has seen record-low passenger levels over the last three months.

 

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What to expect at the Sault Airport

Airports are taking a tough hit from Covid-19 and as flights are starting to take off a little bit more, there are a few things to expect when you fly out of Sault Ste. Marie Airport. The Sault Airport has made adjustments to help keep passengers safe during Covid- 19.

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Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until August 31

Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until August 31, one month later than previously scheduled, due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.
We want to see our planes in the sky as soon as possible and are actively working to prepare for our resumption of service. However, the ongoing uncertainty presented by government travel restrictions, including border closures, is impacting our ability to operate flights. We are closely watching developments and know that Porter will be an important part of providing people with travel options as the economy recovers.

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Sault Ste. Marie Airport Reopens it's Doors

As more passengers return, officials at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport say things will look a bit different than before.

Watch the full report.

Feds keeping eye on aviation sector

Transport Canada is watching how Canadian airports are being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. is counting on cash from the federal government to help with a dramatic loss in revenues due to novel coronavirus. Air Canada and Porter Airlines have suspended flights to the city.

Pandemic forces cash crunch at airport

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. is burning through its cash reserves as its revenue sources dramatically dry up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
SSMADC has already drawn “a fair amount” from its reserves to cover expenses in April and May when passenger numbers plunged to 63 and 69, down more than 99 per cent from 2019 volume, said president and chief executive officer Terry Bos.
Porter Airlines and Air Canada suspended flights from the Sault to Toronto in late March and early April. Air Canada restarts service on June 22 with one flight each weekday. Porter plans to resume flights on July 29. Only Bearskin Airlines offered Sault service during the pandemic.

 

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Sault airport boosting safety measures as flights set to return

As passenger service starts to ramp back up at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport, the facility’s development corporation said it is boosting safety to ensure the safety of travellers and employees.

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Air Canada suspends flights between the Sault and Toronto

Air Canada has announced that as of Thursday, April 2, all flights between Sault Ste. Marie and Toronto will be suspended until April 30, 2020.

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Sault Ste. Marie Set to Host 35th ACMO Convention

We are excited to announce that our 35th Annual Convention is set to take place at the
Water Tower Inn in Sault Ste. Marie, October 4-7th, 2020.
Further details to come!

New hotel included in Sault Ste. Marie Airport expansion plans

SAULT STE. MARIE — Major changes are coming to the Sault Ste. Marie airport, as part of multi-million dollar project.
Highlights of the major expansion include the potential of a hotel being built in the area.
“Somebody wants to take an early 6 a.m. flight and not get up extremely early for it, well you’ll be able to,” said Terry Bos, President and CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation.

What's Behind The Wall?

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport is under construction to make way for a new and improved airport experience, with a BRAND NEW Air Canada counter! The renovations will continue through the month of February 2020. A temporary Air Canada counter is set up to the left of the Porter counter in the terminal. Stay tuned for the final reveal!

Terry Bos

Terry Bos Celebrated for Dedication to the Field of Airport Management

Terry Bos has been included in Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

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SSM Airport Development Corporation Carries Out Annual Strategic Planning Session

During a recent strategy session held on October 20th 2018, the Board of Directors and Management Staff of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC), along with Business Development support team from Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation (SSMEDC) received a presentation from one of Canada’s leading aviation economists Dr. Mike Tretheway on the current and near term future state of the aviation industry, including trends, risk factors, and pilot shortage. Following the presentation a strategic planning exercise was carried out with input from the presentation provided, as well as management staff presentations. The planning areas covered were current and future infrastructure needs, potential partnerships, and becoming an aviation hub. The board was assisted by Jody Rebek DiCerbo, VIVE (Management Consulting and Events).

Joe and Terry give Lake State students the 101 on employer/employee relations

Joe Krmpotich and Terry Bos shared their extensive knowledge and experience with students at the Lukenda School of Business Senior Class on Labour Relations and Collective Bargaining.

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Airport builds 'critical mass' before lift off!

Terry Bos wants to welcome more businesses to Sault Ste. Marie Airport. Bos, president and chief executive officer of Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp., is keen to land an aircraft paint shop that can be based near JD Aero Maintenance. Estimated employment would be up to 50 jobs.

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Shabby Motley The New Food and Beverage Operator at Sault Airport

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) would like to welcome Shabby Motley Café to the Sault Ste. Marie Airport family.

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Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation Awarded Business of the Year by Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce!

The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) took the Business of the Year Award (in the 10 to 25 employees category)

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Airport Sets Record!

Up, up and away.
Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp., set a passenger level record for December, with 18,576 passengers flying to and from the airport in December, a 3.23 per cent increase over December 2016 — the best December in the airport’s history.

Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation Carries Out Strategic Planning Session

During a recent strategy session held on October 21st 2017, the Board of Directors and Management Staff of the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) received a presentation from one of Canada’s leading aviation economists Dr. Mike Tretheway on the current and near term future state of the aviation industry. Following the presentation a strategic planning exercise was carried out with input from the presentation provided. The planning areas covered were airlines and aircraft sizes, operational challenges and opportunities within the next five years, and non-airside development. The board was assisted by Jody Rebek DiCerbo, VIVE (Management Consulting and Events).