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Wasaya has announced the addition of Bombardier Dash 8s to its fleet. Arriving in Thunder Bay, the Canadian-built Dash 8 enhances the airline’s fleet servicing Northwest Ontario.
“The arrival of the Dash 8 marks another positive step in rebuilding our airline,” said president and chief executive officer, Michael Rodyniuk. “The fleet renewal allows us to continue to move forward with our business plan and strategic objectives. We have carefully consulted with our First Nation communities, analyzed their travel needs and overall market demand. Adding the Dash 8 will provide better service for our guests between Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout, connecting our ownership communities in Kasabonika, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, and Wunnumin Lake.”
The Dash 8 has enhanced short takeoff and landing performance on unprepared airstrips, making it the ideal aircraft for remote First Nation travel. With jet-like comfort, the twin turbine pressurized Dash 8-100 carries 37 guests and can accommodate more cargo.
The Dash 8 will add to Wasaya’s fleet of 18 aircraft including eight Beech 1900s, four Pilatus PC-12s, three Hawker 748s and four Cessna C-208 Caravans. Working with its key aircraft supplier, Wasaya will continue to renew its fleet, adding more Dash 8 aircraft in the coming months.
Now in its 26th year in operation, Wasaya Airways is 100 per cent First Nations owned. Wasaya is the leading provider of air transportation services to more than 25 destinations throughout Northwest Ontario.
Wasaya’s 12 First Nation ownership communities are: Bearskin Lake; Fort Severn; Kasabonika Lake; Keewaywin; Kingfisher Lake; Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug; Muskrat Dam; Nibinamik; Pikangikum; Sandy Lake; Wapekeka; and Wunnumin Lake. Wasaya serves 25 Northwestern Ontario with 60 daily flights and employs 315 employees, of which over 35 per cent of which are First Nation.
