Province to Meet with Yarmouth Airport Commission

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT--Province to Meet with Yarmouth Airport Commission

Economic Development Minister Cecil Clarke said he is disappointed that Air Canada Jazz is planning to end its service to Yarmouth. But he said he isn't giving up on regular air service to western Nova Scotia.

"Sure this is disappointing, but Air Canada's decision will create new opportunities for other, perhaps smaller, carriers," said Mr. Clarke. "I'll be working very hard with the area's business community and my colleagues in government to find a workable, long-term solution."

The minister will meet with members of the Yarmouth Airport Commission on Sept. 10, at a meeting that was scheduled prior to the Air Canada Jazz announcement. The agenda, which involves a number of airport-based business development opportunities, will be expanded to include alternatives for air passenger services.

"The Yarmouth airport provides a critical link for business throughout southwestern Nova Scotia, and it's a critical part of the area's economy," said Mr. Clarke. "I'm confident that by working with the community, a new operator can be identified before Air Canada Jazz pulls out next January.

Air Canada Jazz will cease service to Yarmouth as of January 4, 2003 -- the earliest date that the company is permitted to stop service under the agreement that saw Air Canada take over Canadian airlines in 1999.

The Tuesday meeting will take place at the Yarmouth Airport, 10:30 a.m.