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One year ago, PASCAN launched its first flight from Bathurst, N.B. as part of the company’s development program. PASCAN, known as The People’s Regional Airline, is based out of Saint-Hubert, Que. and is focused on connecting small regions with safe, reliable air service. Founded in 1999, PASCAN focused on building their airline division in new markets over the past two years. In 2012, locations in Mirabel, Que and Bathurst, N.B. were added. In 2013, the company expanded its service to include Moncton, N.B., St. John’s, N.F. and Goose Bay, N.F.
“The decision to expand to these destinations over the past 24 months was a decision that fit our business model,” said Julian Roberts, PASCAN general manager. “With the economic boom occurring in Newfoundland and Labrador, establishing a long-term partnership with the Northern New Brunswick Airport in Bathurst, was a decision that made sense to us as it provided the air service the community sought.”
“We are very excited to mark this important milestone with Pascan. We have forged an important partnership and established an important air link to labour and trade markets in Labrador. We look forward to exploring more opportunities with Pascan as they develop,” commented Jennifer Henry, executive director of the Northern New Brunswick Airport Authority Inc.
PASCAN hired Lisa Mallais, a resident of Bathurst, who works as Bathurst’s customer service agent for the company. She stated “I have always been fascinated by aviation ever since I can remember. The first time I ever was on an airline flight was with Pascan in February of this year. It will not be my last. I would love to study to become a flight attendant and further my career in aviation.”
Roberts remarked, “Most people who work with our company share the same love and passion for aviation.”
The airline recently made an adjustment to their flight schedule in Bathurst. The schedule change was due greatly in part to the request for morning departures from Wabash, N.F. and to the decrease in required passenger service throughout the province of Quebec, it was a smart business decisions for the company.” Roberts went on to say, “If and when the demand is there, PASCAN will be prepared to expand our service in any region including Bathurst.”
In the first twelve months of operations, the number one destination from Bathurst is with 82.9 per cent overwhelmingly is Wabash. The next most popular destination with 8.4 per cent is Quebec City. “With the economic boom in the Newfoundland / Labrador regions, PASCAN is expecting there to be new opportunities for spring of 2014,” said Roberts. “PASCAN is prepared to provide the air service demanded by the communities we serve. Today and always, our promise is to offer safe reliable service, consistent pricing, to never overbook flights and to offer superior customer service.”
