Harbour Air opens new flight routes with modified Twin Otters

On November 4, 2024, the airline launched its first flight with a modified Twin Otter, which now has wheels, offering passengers new options for early morning and late evening flights. This innovative service is designed to expand existing seaplane connections while meeting the growing demand for more flexibility in air travel.

Harbour Air, North America's largest seaplane operator, has been operating the route between downtown Vancouver and Victoria Harbour Airport for years. But until now, its seaplanes have relied on daylight flights and favorable weather conditions, which have occasionally disrupted service. To meet increasing demand from business travelers and locals for more flexible departure times, the airline has fitted wheels and de-icing equipment to two of its 19-seat Twin Otter aircraft.

These adjustments will allow the aircraft to fly in poor weather conditions and outside daylight hours, making the service more reliable. Chris Fordyce, Vice President Commercial at Harbour Air, explained: "With the combination of wheel and seaplane flights, Harbour Air will offer more daily frequencies than any other airline on this route." This strategic decision reflects the airline's commitment to providing passengers with an improved and more stable service, particularly during the winter months when weather conditions are often challenging.

The first flight on wheels was ceremoniously inaugurated by the Musqueam Nation, underscoring the cultural significance of the ceremony. The traditional land acknowledgement and blessing of the aircraft by Musqueam Nation elders demonstrate the airline's deep connection to the region and its indigenous roots. These symbolic gestures were complemented by a ribbon cutting ceremony at the departure gate before the aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute at Victoria International Airport.

A modern fleet for new challenges

Harbour Air's fleet is predominantly made up of Canadian-made De Havilland aircraft, including the Beaver, Single Otter and Twin Otter, known for their robustness and versatility. The recent modifications to the Twin Otter aircraft are another step to modernize and increase the efficiency of the fleet. In addition to the newly equipped Twin Otter aircraft, Harbour Air also relies on the Cessna Grand Caravan EX, which is equipped with the latest technology and is mainly used on international routes such as between Vancouver and Seattle.

The airline carries around 500.000 passengers annually to a variety of destinations, including popular spots such as Tofino, Whistler and the Salt Spring Islands. By introducing the new cycle flights, Harbour Air is not only increasing the number of daily connections, but also strengthening its position as a leader in regional air transport.

The launch of Harbour Air's new wheeled flights is a significant step in the evolution of regional air travel in British Columbia. The combination of water and wheeled flights allows for improved flexibility and reliability, which is particularly important during the winter months. With this initiative, Harbour Air is demonstrating its willingness to adapt to the challenges of the air travel market while respecting the region's cultural values.

The new flights could benefit not only business travelers, but also tourists who want to experience the scenic beauty of Vancouver and Victoria in the coming months. The airline has once again demonstrated its innovative strength while strengthening a connection to local culture and history.