RECORD YEAR AT DEER LAKE REGIONAL AIRPORT January 9, 2004 Its official, in 2003 the Deer Lake Regional Airport recorded its highest ever passenger traffic movements in the history of the Airport. During this period, traffic levels reached an all-time high of 171,634 enplaning/deplaning passengers surpassing the previous mark of 171,013 established in 1990. The new record represents only the second time that traffic levels have exceeded 170,000 passengers. The figures for 2003 represent a whopping 14% increase over the numbers recorded in the previous year, 2002 and the third consecutive year of increased traffic volumes. Carl Stratton, Chairman of the Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority, was delighted with reaching this milestone. “We were anticipating a successful year especially after experiencing record traffic numbers during July and August but reaching this milestone is a proud accomplishment for everyone. It is very rewarding to be involved in the airport operation at a time when we are experiencing significant growth and the future prospects for the region are very positive,” stated Stratton. The Airport Manager, Jamie Schwartz, attributed much of the record growth to the four different airlines operating at Deer Lake and the resulting market stimulation through competition and lower fares. “First and foremost, much of our growth is a direct result of the quality and level of service offered by Air Canada Jazz, Air Labrador, CanJet and Provincial Airlines. These airlines have responded to the market demand by increasing service and/or adding new routes,” stated Schwartz. “Furthermore, competition on all routes has resulted in lower fares and when combined with the fact that the Deer Lake Regional Airport does not charge or collect Airport Improvement or Passenger fees airfares have never been more affordable”, added Schwartz. Location has also been an important element in the Airport’s recent success. “Deer Lake is strategically located in the heart of the adventure tourism market and we have witnessed a steady increase during both the winter and summer tourist seasons,” said Schwartz. “Our location also enables us to service the largest population catchment area in Western Newfoundland. We are attracting travelers from every community throughout the region, including as far away as Port aux Basques, St. Anthony and Gander,” added Schwartz. The Deer Lake Regional Airport is one of only a few remaining airports in Canada that does not charge or collect an Airport Improvement Fee or Passenger Facilitation Fee.
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