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Penticton  

Penticton sees Pacific Coastal Airlines touch down for first time

New airline in town

Chelsea Powrie

Goodbye Air Canada, hello Pacific Coastal Airlines.

The commercial airline touched down for the first time in Penticton Monday, offering a route to and from Vancouver four times a week and filling the gap left by Air Canada, which ceased service to the Penticton Airport. 

“We are very excited to be introducing new air service to the southern Okanagan Valley,” said Pacific Coastal Airlines president Quentin Smith in a press release. 

“We are pleased to be able to offer essential services and locals more choices and competitive fares for travel to Vancouver and connections beyond to the rest of Pacific Coastal Airlines British Columbia destinations.”

Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki was on hand to welcome the flight, saying "air travel to and from Penticton remains a key link to other parts of the province."

"The arrival of Pacific Coastal Airlines marks a great start for the year, both for our airport and our community,” he said. 

The only other commercial airline in Penticton is WestJet, with service to Calgary. The new Pacific Coastal route, which offers service to and from Vancouver on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, will be a link for commuters and vacationers to the Lower Mainland. 

"Travel Penticton is delighted at the arrival of Pacific Coastal Airlines in Penticton,” stated Thom Tischik, executive director of Travel Penticton.

“We see Penticton Airport as an important transportation hub for the city and South Okanagan. Pacific Coastal Airlines is a welcome addition to support the important link to Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. When the time is right, we are sure many travellers will take advantage of this convenient service for leisure and business travel.”

“In the evolving climate of health measures and the importance of safe travel for essential workers, we are pleased to be hosting Pacific Coastal Airlines in our community,” said Penticton Indian Band Chief Greg Gabriel.

“The Penticton Indian Band is confident the increased business opportunities their service will bring to our region. We would like to welcome Pacific Coastal Airlines to the Syilx Territory and the community of Sn’pinktn. We hope that all those who travel here, arrive safely and travel home with appreciation for this land in their hearts.”

The importance of flights to and from Vancouver has long been a matter of importance for local MP Richard Cannings, who has been vocal in his disappointment with Air Canada cutting its service. 

Find out more about the Pacific Coastal Airlines schedule or book a flight here



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