Dear editor,
As the Comox Valley Airport embarks on developing a brand for our airport that reflects the views and experiences of our passengers and the community, I would like to take a few moments to reflect on our rich history and a key event that played a very crucial role in shaping what the airport is today.
This month, WestJet celebrated its 10th anniversary as a resident of the Comox Valley. As a relative newcomer to the area, I understand what an honour this is.
The pride that Comox Valley residents have in their community is unmatched. Those who live here recognize and treasure the Valley鈥檚 unique attributes 鈥� from its breathtaking scenery to its local charm.
Here at the airport, we have the unique perspective of being the first point of entry into the Comox Valley and the responsibility of helping to form our passengers鈥� first perceptions of the Valley.
On behalf of the Comox Valley Airport, I would like to highlight the key role WestJet has played in shaping this community over the last decade.
Through the establishment of direct routes to Edmonton and Calgary, WestJet opened up a wealth of opportunities for the Comox Valley through the creation of additional travel opportunities for our residents and by increasing tourism for the region. Additional spinoff benefits such as increased jobs, wages, tax revenues and residential property sales also contributed directly to the economic prosperity of the Valley.
In 2010, almost 224,000 YQQ passengers stepped aboard WestJet flights. These services are a key component of the Comox Valley Airport鈥檚 success and we will carry on our partnership with WestJet to ensure these routes continue to thrive.
However, the ability to support an airline route in a community goes far beyond the CEO and airport administration.
It also takes the hard work and commitment of our local governments, the Regional District, Economic Development and the Chamber of Commerce. These bodies, along with our passengers and the community at large, played an integral role in bringing WestJet to the Valley.
They continue to work co-operatively with Airport Administration to support WestJet today.
To recognize the importance and show appreciation of WestJet鈥檚 presence in the Comox Valley, an event is being planned in conjunction with our community partners to showcase the strong support that exists for its services here.
In celebration of the airline鈥檚 decade of success, we would like to invite all of our passengers to submit their positive WestJet experiences to info@comoxairport.com so that we may share them with our friends at Westjet.
Shirley de Silva
Editor's note: Shirley de silva is the CEO of the Comox Valley Airport Commission.
