Murray Wood: Who's hot... and who's not
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An affordable air travel option arrives in Saskatchewan this summer.
Lynx Air announced Wednesday an expansion to Regina starting June 20.
The “ultra-affordable” airline will operate six weekly flights in and out of Regina International Airport (YQR) between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).
Tickets start at $79 for a one-way flight.
“This is great news for our community because it ultimately means more choice,” said Justin Reves with the Regina Airport Authority on Wednesday.
“We currently don’t have ultra-low-cost service here in Regina which is a bit of a unique airline product.
“We’ve had it in the past with Flair (Airlines) and Swoop when they were here but we’ve certainly been missing it since they left so it’s great news for the community to provide a little bit more choice and having Lynx join us here later in 2024.”
According to a media release, this will be Lynx’s first expansion into the Saskatchewan market, increasing its total number of North American destinations to 23.
The release said flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
Reves said having more flights has an economic impact as well.
“Even from a simple GDP perspective, the airport here generates over $800 million in direct economic impact and every additional flight just means more and more economic activity,” he said.
Reves said the boost will help the airport with its post-pandemic recovery. He said December 2023 was the first month that YQR exceeded 2019 levels of passenger volume.
“We are excited to be adding Regina to the Lynx Air network in the lead-up to summer. The province of Saskatchewan has seen significant reductions in capacity lately and prices are too high, and we aim to change that,” said Lynx CCO Vijay Bathija in a media release.
“We are pleased to offer an ultra-affordable option to connect Regina and Saskatchewan to BC and Ontario. Whether you are travelling to explore this gateway to the Prairies or to visit your loved ones in the region, Lynx will ensure a great flying experience at an ultra-affordable price.”
In that same release, Regina Mayor Sandra Masters said she was pleased with Lynx’s arrival.
“Having a brand-new flight carrier strengthens our visitor economy and provides residents with more options to explore our incredible country,” she said.
