The Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corporation (SSMADC) reported an 8.8 per cent increase in passenger traffic for June, with 14,022 travelers passing through the terminal compared to 12,884 during the same period last year. This growth is attributed to expanded seat capacity and a diversified flight schedule involving Air Canada, Porter, Bearskin Airlines, and WestJet.
Increased Seat Capacity Drives Passenger Growth
More seats on more flights are moving the needle for Sault Ste. Marie. Terry Bos, President and CEO of the SSMADC, stated that increased seat capacity is translating directly into higher passenger numbers. The airport has shifted from limited options to a more robust daily schedule.
Currently, Air Canada Express operates three flights daily, while Porter provides two daily flights.
Did you know? Passenger volume in June climbed year-over-year, signaling a strengthening demand for regional air connectivity.
Strategic Route Diversification: Calgary and Beyond
The airport’s growth isn’t just about frequency; it’s about destination. WestJet now provides twice-weekly non-stop service to Calgary, opening a direct western corridor for the region.
Regional connectivity also remains a priority via Bearskin Airlines. Their schedule varies by day to meet demand: three flights daily on Sundays and Mondays, four on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and five on Wednesdays and Fridays. Notably, Bearskin utilizes Dash 8 aircraft for select flights on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Current Flight Frequency Breakdown
| Airline | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Air Canada Express | 3 flights daily |
| Porter | 2 flights daily |
| WestJet | 2 flights weekly (Calgary) |
| Bearskin Airlines | 3 to 5 flights daily |
The Shift Toward Regional Aviation Stability
Frequently Asked Questions
How many passengers used the Sault Ste. Marie airport in June?
A total of 14,022 passengers used the airport, an 8.8 per cent increase over the previous June.
Which airlines currently serve Sault Ste. Marie?
The airport is served by Air Canada Express, Porter, Bearskin Airlines, and WestJet.
Is there a direct flight to Western Canada?
Yes, WestJet provides twice-weekly direct non-stop service to Calgary.
What do you think about the current flight options in Sault Ste. Marie? Are there other destinations you want to see added to the schedule? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more regional travel updates.
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