Ontario Considers Aid for Airlines Serving Regional Airports

The Ontario government is exploring financial assistance options for airlines that provide service to regional airports, according to Greg Rickford, the Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora-Rainy River. Speaking in Dryden, Rickford emphasized the importance of affordable and reliable flights for the local community, where approximately 80,000 to 90,000 residents travel to Winnipeg for air travel each year.

Rickford highlighted that the price of flights should not exceed those from larger cities such as Thunder Bay to major urban centers globally. “We want affordability and reliability,” he stated, indicating that support for airlines could be forthcoming. “The Ministry of Transportation and my office have not ruled out playing a more significant role in helping the cost model get off the ground,” he added, suggesting that interim financial assistance may be possible.

New Routes and Federal Funding Eligibility

In a positive development for the region, North Star Air has announced the return of passenger air service, with flights between its airport and Thunder Bay set to commence on January 15, 2024. This new service is expected to meet a significant demand, and it may enable the Kenora airport to qualify for funding under the federal airports capital assistance program. This program assists local and regional airports with capital improvements and requires year-round scheduled commercial passenger service with a minimum of 1,000 passengers annually.

Unfortunately, without scheduled passenger service, nearby airports in Dryden and Fort Frances are currently ineligible for this federal funding. To address this, officials from these communities have commissioned a study to assess the viability and future of air travel in the region. Rickford confirmed that the province is considering various options, including direct funding and support for airlines, to help these airports access necessary federal dollars.

Advocacy for Funding and Support

Rickford noted that discussions with the federal government regarding interim support are also on the table. “It may be that, on an interim basis, we have to sit down with the federal government,” he said, expressing hope for a collaborative solution that could lead to enhanced commercial services for regional airports.

The Airport Management Council of Ontario has been advocating for a dedicated funding stream of $10 million per year from the provincial government to support airport improvements. Shari Gentes, the council’s northwest regional director, has informed local media that they plan to participate in the province’s pre-budget consultations for 2026 to present their case for funding.

As the situation evolves, regional officials and residents remain hopeful that the Ontario government will implement measures to enhance air travel accessibility, thereby benefiting local communities and economies.