“ We need an accountant that knows the industry as well as we do.”

People who know, know BDO.SM

Technical knowledge. Experience across industries. And a deep commitment to personal client service. BDO provides tax, assurance, and advisory services to a wide variety of fi rms: public and private companies, not-for-profi t organizations, and government institutions.

We are pleased to congratulate on its 50th anniversary.

Assurance | Accounting | Taxation | Advisory Services

www.bdo.ca

BDO LLP, a Canadian limited liability partnership, is a member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member rms. BDO is the brand name for the BDO network and for each of the BDO Member Firms. Welcome Aboard Bearskin Airlines! By Harvey Friesen, President and Cliff Friesen, Executive Vice President

On July 17th, 2013 Bearskin Airlines will celebrate its 50th Anniversary. As we sit back and reflect on the years that have gone by, we can feel very proud about achieving this major milestone in a very challenging industry – in fact, we would need all of our fingers and toes to count the airlines that have come and gone in the time that Bearskin has operated.

To remain relevant to our customers, we have re-invented ourselves a number of times and been very open to the constant change required to grow and prosper in the markets we have served.

In the early years, we transitioned from single engine float aircraft to twin engine wheeled aircraft and expanded rapidly as the provincial government embarked on their “highways in the sky” program, building gravel airstrips in many remote northern communities. We’ve operated as many as 14 different aircraft types compared to a single type today. Each equipment choice was strategic in nature as we evolved over the years.

(l-r) Harvey Our first reservation system, our participation in the Frequent Flyer Program and Cliff and our first internet booking engine were all important to our success, as was our move to Friesen. Interline E-ticketing, Automated Revenue Management and other automated systems to help us be as efficient as we could be.

The sale of our most Northern Operations (22 of 38 communities served) to in mid 2003 was also a significant time of change for us as we rationalized our equipment, staffing and markets served.

On January 1st, 2011, Exchange Income Corporation (TSX: EIF) completed its acquisition of Bearskin Airlines as first announced on September 15, 2010. EIC is a Canadian corporation who, in addition to Bearskin Airlines, also owns , , , Customer Helicopters and Regional One, along with specialty manufacturing companies in Canada and the United States. EIC’s strategy has been to maintain Bearskin's management and staff, allowing us the opportunity to manage Bearskin to best meet the needs of our customers.

We like to attribute much of our success to the dedication and hard work by our 312 employees today and the hundreds who have passed through our company as they have progressed in their careers. We've seen many of them buy their first car, their first house, marry, have a family and later become grandparents. Others are working for airlines around the world. It is very gratifying to see them do well in their lives.

We have established a long tradition of providing safe, convenient, comfortable and reliable air service throughout the cities we’ve served. Providing that service to our friends, neighbours and all of our customers has been rewarding. We have enjoyed significant support from the communities that we have served and for that we are grateful.

On behalf of everyone at Bearskin Airlines, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the support that has been demonstrated for our service since 1963.

4 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine CONGRATS ON 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

Congratulations Bearskin Airlines on your 50th Anniversary www.lowerys.com

Publisher/managing Editor Cliff Friesen

Editor Patti Gresham Congratulations Writers Elle Andra-Warner on 50 Years of Photography Credits Sudbury, Frank Baratta First Class Service! Design + Production Good Design

Advertising Sales Terry Crewson and Bearskin Airlines Staff

Lithography Premier Printing Toll Free Reservations 1.877.560.0111

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40013935 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:

1475 West Walsh Street , Ont. P7E 4X6 Phone (807) 474-2636 Fax (807) 474-2658 bearskinairlines.com

Bear Country is published by Bearskin Lake Air Services Ltd. ISBN D702544

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 5 It is a grand milestone this summer! Bearskin Airlines is celebrating 50 years of continuous service. And for most of those years, the Friesen brothers have led the company from a grassroots air service to one of Canada’s most successful commuter regional carriers.

Shrewd business sense has been This timely service is particularly forward-looking people. Whenever essential to Bearskin’s growth, as important for business travellers there was a growth opportunity, has the airlines ability to adapt to so they can do a day’s work and everyone was ready for it.” change and meet the needs of the come back home for the night.” marketplace. “I think we helped Bearskin Airlines’ roots run deep in the company grow by taking careful The key to their success? . It was 50 years ago, steps. When there are opportunities Without hesitation, Harvey said it on July 17, 1963, that the airline began and need for service, we take a was “the dedication and hard work as Bearskin Lake Air Service with close look at it and try to make the by all of our employees.” two Cessna 180s flying passengers right decisions so that when we do and cargo from a base at Big Trout move forward, we do it successfully” Harvey’s brother Cliff is Bearskin’s Lake, 45 miles east of Bearskin Lake explained Harvey Friesen, President Executive Vice-President and also (270 miles northeast of , of Bearskin Airlines. credits the company’s employees for 400 miles northwest of Thunder Bay). the corporate culture of reliability It was founded by bush pilot Otto He added, “Customer service and commitment to customers. John Hegland, a Norwegian immigrant has played a big part in Bearskin’s who named the airline after growth. We have always tried to set “None of it would have been Bearskin Lake where he operated a up schedules that are convenient possible without their hard work general store. In 1965, his brother-in- to the traveller and can meet and dedication” said Cliff. “Our law Henri Boulanger and Bert Cone connecting flights to all communities. employees have always been took over the company.

6 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Bottom: Hegland’s brother-in-law, Henri Boulanger, and Joe Deneve repairing a C180 at Red Lake. Top: Unloading goods from Cessna 180.

Then, in 1972, Harvey Friesen – Between 1963 and 1977, Bearskin nearly impossible during winter a young and ambitious pilot who had focused on providing charter service freeze-up and spring break-up. To joined Bearskin in 1970 – bought a to the many remote First Nation overcome the problem of 50 percent share in the company. communities in northern Ontario. In communities being cut off during Five years later (1977), Harvey became 1977, Bearskin’s first scheduled service seasonal transition, the Ontario the majority owner and President. began flying passengers between government began an extensive The following year, Cliff joined the Big Trout Lake and Sioux Lookout. airfield construction program in many company as Executive Vice-President. of the remote communities. Quick to The two Friesen brothers co-owned A year later (1978), a base recognize opportunity, Bearskin began Bearskin along with Karl Friesen of operation was moved to Sioux offering scheduled air service with (unrelated), Vice-President Lookout where the company built wheeled aircraft to those communities. of Operations (he joined Bearskin in a new hangar, maintenance and In the mid 70’s, NorOntair 1973 as a pilot and minor shareholder); office facility. In 1979 a second (Ontario Northland Transportation Rick Baratta, Vice-President scheduled route was launched, this Commission) started to subcontract of Finance (since retired); and, time between Sioux Lookout and flying operations to various airlines. Brad Martin, Director of Operations. Thunder Bay and in 1980 a new base Two of their Twin Otters ­­— painted was established in Thunder Bay in full NorOntair colours — were following the purchase of On Air based in Thunder Bay and operated 1979 Ltd. Cliff Friesen subsequently by On Air Ltd until purchased by moved to Thunder Bay to oversee Bearskin Airlines in 1980. Bearskin In 1977, that base and in 1981 a third operated the NorOntair contract Harvey scheduled service was added, linking flying 3 Twin Otters until 1996. Friesen Sioux Lookout, and . became the In 1991, Bearskin bought two new majority Until the late 1970s, most Fairchild Metroliner aircraft and a owner and of Bearskin’s aircraft were bush year later, using the Metroliner, the President planes, float-equipped in summer and company launched non-stop service of Bearskin ski-equipped in winter. Providing between Thunder Bay and Sudbury Airlines. service to remote communities was (Northern Ontario’s two largest cities).

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 7 Congratulations Bearskin Airlines 50th Anniversary Best wishes for continued success!

Bill Mauro MPP THUNDER BAY-ATIKOKAN Thunder Bay Constituency Office 240 Syndicate Ave. S. • 623-9237 www.billmauro.onmpp.ca Top: Sioux Lookout’s home base in 1977 consisted of a small camper trailer and storage shed. Bottom: Bearskin office and shop at Big Trout Lake, built in the 1980’s.

It was the start of Bearskin Airlines’ later (1999), Bearskin expanded into move eastward, making tracks northern , establishing routes throughout northeastern Ontario between Winnipeg and the northern and eventually into Ottawa following communities of Flin Flon and The Pas. the withdrawal of Canadian Partner from the Northern tier. In 2003 after 40 years of service, the airline made a dramatic An exciting different kind change in its operations: their of venture for Bearskin took place in northern routes and assets were December 1994 — the launch of its sold to Wasaya Group Inc., owners in-flight magazine, Bear Country. of Wasaya Airlines (one of the Nineteen years later, the quarterly world’s largest Aboriginal-owned publication continues to deliver high- airlines). A traditional signing quality articles featuring the people, ceremony formalized the deal places and events in the destinations on July 9, 2003 at Bearskin Lake that Bearskin Airlines serves. First Nation.

Growth opportunities continued to Did the sale give the company an come to Bearskin. In 1996, after the opportunity to service new markets? Ontario government terminated its According to Cliff, with the exception service, Bearskin filled of Kitchener-Waterloo, Bearskin was the void by launching scheduled already serving the markets they are service between , in today. The sale did, however, give Thunder Bay, Sault Ste Marie, Sudbury them the resources to look at other and Timmins. And just three years growth opportunities.

8 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine LOOKING TO UPGRADE YOUR NETWORK OR TELEPHONE SYSTEM FOR BETTER PERFORMANCE?

You can count on TELECO‘s Business Sales team to provide you with reliable, professional and affordable communication solutions to help your business move forward. Call for a no obligation consultation.

Business Consultants: Ryan Johnson, Dean Hill, Dave Smith & Keri Simpson

Congratulations to Bearskin Airlines 601 Central Avenue for 50 Years of Service. teleco.ca • 345-2900 • 1-800-465-3933 Business Phone Systems • Voicemail • Network Cabling Top: In the late 1960’s much of the maintenance was performed outdoors on the ice. Pictured is a Cessna 180 undergoing inspection at Big Trout Lake. Bottom: Fuel tanks at Big Trout Lake base. 1-807-473-9123 or 1-888-473-2378

A new maintenance facility was opened in Winnipeg in 2007 and one more Fairchild Metroliner was acquired in each of 2006, 2007 and 2009.

On October 1, 2007, Bearskin Airlines opened a new service in southern Ontario with three flights daily between Ottawa and the Kitchener-Waterloo area, home to over 500,000 people in the Congratulations Bearskin on your 50th Anniversary! three communities of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge. Today, Kitchener-Waterloo has grown to feature up to five flights daily during peak travel season.

On January 1, 2011, Exchange Income Corporation (TSX: EIF) completed its acquisition of

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 9 Left: Bearskin Airlines' inaugural flight of scheduled Metro service into Kenora in 1992. (l-r) the late Councillor Chuck Tyrell, the late Mayor Kelvin Winkler, President Bearskin Airlines as first announced of Bearskin Airlines Harvey Friesen, MPP Frank Miclash, the late Councillor on September 15, 2010. EIC is Walter Kostantin and Cliff Friesen, Executive-Vice President of Bearskin Airlines. a Canadian corporation who, in addition to Bearskin Airlines, Right: The inaugural flight of service to the Region of Waterloo on October 1, 2007. also owns Perimeter Aviation, Front row (l-r): Jeff Schelling, Manager Development – Region of Waterloo Keewatin Air Calm Air and Custom International Airport; Brad Martin, Director of Operations – Bearskin Airlines; Helicopters, along with specialty Ron Hell, Director Marketing and Sales – Bearskin Airlines; Ken Seiling, Regional manufacturing companies in Chair – Region of Waterloo; Jane Brewer, Member of Regional Council – Region Canada and the United States. of Waterloo; Cliff Friesen, Executive VP – Bearskin Airlines. Back row (top to bottom): Karl Friesen, Vice President Operations – Bearskin Airlines; Tom Galloway, A new Kitchener-Waterloo Member of Regional Council – Region of Waterloo; William (Bill) Strauss, Mayor crew base was opened in 2012 and of Woolwich Township and Member of Regional Council – Region of Waterloo. new Waterloo maintenance facility

10 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine in January 2013. Two additional Metroliners were also acquired in 2012 in order to expand charter operations. One of these aircraft is now based in Waterloo to serve the southern Ontario charter marketplace. Weekly Hamilton- Kapuskasing scheduled service also started in the summer of 2012 in order to meet the needs of a major hydro contractor in Kapuskasing.

Today, Bearskin Airlines employs more than 310 people in Ontario and Manitoba, operating 16 Fairchild Metroliners to 18 destinations, and offers more than 100 daily flights.

What’s in the future for Bearskin?

The summer of 2013 will bring a change in Bearskin’s pricing strategy as the company evolves once again to remain relevant in the market. Recognizing that its customers fall into distinct groups with very different needs, Bearskin is introducing three new fare types this summer, each with different characteristics.

Liberty Fares are a premium product targeting the unique needs of business travellers. Flex Fares are a preferred choice among anyone who needs flexibility with low change and cancellation fees and Fixed Fares are designed for those individuals who only want the lowest fare. When purchasing a ticket online after July 9, 2013, you will be able to easily mouse over the fare display to see the characteristics associated with each fare type. When travelling on business, Bearskin Thunder Bay’s offers the fastest, most efficient way to travel between the cities we serve. Full Service Hotel Starting July 9th, our enhanced · The Areas Largest Convention Centre fare options will give you another · Newly Renovated Rooms and Executive Suites · Timbers Restaurant & 25 Steaklounge reason to choose Bearskin Airlines. · Fitness Centre, Athletic Club & Spa

From beginning operations 50 years Congratulations to Bearskin Airlines for 50 Years of Service. ago in 1963, Bearskin Airlines has evolved from a small bush plane air service into a major inter-provincial carrier. Along the way, it became an icon of northern aviation.

1 Valhalla Inn Rd. Thunder Bay 1-800-964-1121

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 11 By Elle Andra-Warner Looking back moments are captivating trips back in time. Ask Harvey Friesen, Cliff Friesen, Karl Friesen, Rick Baratta and Brad Martin for their highlights and you’ll get an eclectic mix of interesting reminiscences. What was their most memorable flight? High points in Bearskin’s history? Important steps in getting things going? Behind the scenes stories? Changing dynamics and major events? We asked those questions and got some great stories!

12 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine they wanted to medevac her out to I landed on the lake and stopped Sioux Lookout. The nurse said the close to shore hoping the ice would woman was extremely ill, and might be thick enough. After landing I not make it if we couldn’t get her to a walked to the shore, collected dry hospital. Normal procedures were that wood, built a fire. It was about minus a nurse would accompany the patient. 15 to 20 so we left the patient in the The patient would be on a stretcher plane wrapped in a heavy sleeping on the floor with the nurse sitting bag. I melted snow to drink and built in the back seat. We had to remove the fire big enough to stay warm. the front passenger seat in order to accomplish this. In the morning once it was light, we flew out to Sioux Lookout. When we boarded her on the The woman survived the ordeal and Cessna 180 single engine ski plane, both she and the baby were fine. It Harvey Friesen it was already getting dark as we happened over 30 years ago, but it is expected it would be. We could fly still one of my most memorable flights. Originally from Warman, in the dark, although we were not Saskatchewan, and now residing equipped or licensed to do so. It in Sioux Lookout, it was 41 years wasn’t normally a problem as we ago (1972) when Harvey Friesen did not fly at night frequently. became an owner of Bearskin Airlines after being hired in 1970 On route, it started snowing about as its bush pilot stationed at Big 150 miles from Sioux Lookout. In those Trout Lake and two years later days, we had no navigation aid, no buying shares in the company. radio. True . It was now dark and snowing, but could still fly A ‘looking back’ moment that visual and navigate with maps. But stands out for me was back in the the snow became so severe, I did not early fall of 1972 on a flight from Big have any forward visibility… I could Trout Lake to Sioux Lookout. A flight only see down. The trees were black of about two-and-a-half hours. and the lakes were white, we had to look for a landing area quickly. There was no air ambulance at the time and no hospital at Big Trout We were about 10 miles south Cliff friesen Lake. We did not have an airstrip or of Sioux Lookout, and found a place to a telephone system. If they needed to land on the long arm of the lake. The Cliff Friesen, Harvey’s brother transport a patient to Sioux Lookout, a ice conditions were marginal — we and also from Warman, became nurse would contact us and depending had not yet started flying on the ice an owner of Bearskin 35 years ago on the season, we would go either with at Sioux Lookout though we had (1978) when he purchased interest a ski plane or float plane to fly the sick at Big Trout Lake. I was concerned in the airline, became its Executive person to the hospital in Sioux Lookout. the ice may not be thick enough. Vice-President, and later moved to Thunder Bay where he established It was late afternoon when I received the airline’s second base of operation. a call from the nurse in Big Trout Lake, saying they had a woman experiencing If we hadn’t started infrastructure difficulties in her pregnancy and 31 years ago back in 1982 when we put in our first reservation system, Bearskin Airlines would not be here today. No manual-system based Left: Bearskin Airlines’ owners, airline is in existence today. At the July 2003 (l-r) Back: Harvey Friesen, time, we were a small airline and President; Karl Friesen, Vice President allowed us to go on their of Operations. Front: Rick Baratta, reservation system. You have to look Vice President of Finance; Cliff Friesen, at infrastructure and technology is the Executive Vice President and biggest part of the infrastructure. Brad Martin, Director of Operations. Back in 1993, Bearskin had a big Right: A young Harvey Friesen growth spurt when one of our two in his ‘bush flying’ days. main competitors, Canadian Regional

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 13 Airlines went out of business. Harvey For a number of years, both and I were skiing in Salt Lake City Canadian Regional Airlines and when Canadian Regional Airlines NorOntair employees constantly suddenly announced they were told our employees, ‘’We’re going terminating flights in Northwestern to run Bearskin Airlines out Ontario. We called Ron Hell right away of business.” Today, they are gone and told him to make an announcement and Bearskin Airlines is still here. immediately that Bearskin Airlines will Congratulations fly the routes Canadian had abandoned. We made the announcement one If you manage a company BEARSKIN AIRLINES day before our other competitor efficiently and effectively, the NorOntair had planned to announce on your 50th the same thing. If we hadn’t made a money will take care of itself. quick decision, they would have been ­— Cliff Friesen, June 20, 2013 Anniversary! first to make the announcement. We acted on our decision, and NorOntair NEW for 2013 never put out any announcement. Some of our employees have been Custom WORKWEAR with us for many years. We’ve seen Reflecting back, one of the high them buy their first car, their first house, Programs Available. points for me was in 1996 when we marry, have a family and later become stopped NorOntair, a subsidiary of the grandparents. Others have gone and Ontario Northland Transportation now fly around the world for other

L E Commission, a provincial Crown major airlines. It is very gratifying to agency of the Government of Ontario. see them do well in their lives. T S P O R B E We were already competing with NorOntair on the Thunder Bay- Sudbury route when they decided Karl Friesen to add scheduled service between Thunder Bay-Kenora-Winnipeg, After leaving his hometown in where we were already flying. Hard Calgary, Karl hired on with Bearskin to compete against the $5 million Airlines in May 1973 after promising

A P subsidy they were getting from to “stay at least six months.” That was Ontario government. Our Member 40 years ago. He lived in Big Trout

A R T O F Y U of Provincial Parliament and Lake for four and a half years flying leader of the Ontario Liberal Party, float planes and used to haul fish in Lyn McLeod, went to bat for us. the Norseman. He was married to The government pulled the subsidy, Barbara Morris, a native girl, in 1974, NorOntair closed down in March 1996, in a log church with Harvey Friesen and we took over most of their routes. as his best man.

U P C O M I N Karl recalled how he became the VP of the company. One day Harvey told him that the lawyers said they needed a vice president. “Do you want to be the vice president?” he asked. “I guess so”, I replied and we went back to working on G E the planes. Back then everyone flew and fixed whatever needed to be done. Titles V E N were not important. We were three guys, with three planes, living in shacks. It T S ! was tough times” said Karl.

When Bearskin got their first twin SPORTOP MARKETING Aztec there wasn’t much work for it so 712 MacDonell St. Thunder Bay, Ont P7B 4A6 PH: 807-346-5400 FAX: 807-346-5401 Executive Vice President Cliff Friesen TOLL FREE: 888-776-7867 www.sportop.com stands with a NorOntair C-175 subcontracted to Bearskin in 1988.

14 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Karl started an unofficial scheduled flight to Sioux Lookout. He would CONGRATULATIONS BEARSKIN AIRLINES drive around Big Trout Lake on his ON 50 SUCCCESSFUL YEARS motorcycle or skidoo and ask people if they wanted to go. When he got Newly Refreshed Airlane his passengers to Sioux Lookout he New beds, bedding & carpet in all guestrooms frequently took them downtown in New drapery and artwork his old 1958 Ford car. One day the New flat screen televisions and fridges seats were out for repair so everyone New corridor and lobby carpeting including Karl sat on boxes in the car. New lobby furniture, artwork and television

www.airlanehotel.com Once we got enough people, we 698 W Arthur St, Thunder Bay ON started a scheduled flight once a day “A Guest when you enter … 1-800-465-5003 A Friend when you leave” between Big Trout Lake and Sioux Lookout. Getting that first schedule was an important step. It would have The Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce happened eventually, but going after The Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce invites you to visit the most vibrant and passengers made it happen quicker. AND fastest growing community in Northwest- Travel Information Centre ern Ontario. We are working hard to After the first scheduled line, we got make the Sioux Lookout region a wonder- more runways, more schedules and ful place to live, grow and do business. the bush planes that used to be “king” From a diverse art and culture scene to some of the best fishing and hunting got pushed back. That’s the history around, Sioux Lookout has something for of how scheduled lines started with everyone! The helpful staff at the Travel Information Centre will be happy to Bearskin Airlines. provide any assistance planning your trip or during your stay, whether you need Check out our website or ‘Like’ us on Facebook! help finding area businesses, services, Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce natural attractions or community events. Box 577, Sioux Lookout, ON, P8T 1A8

Tel: (807) 737-1937 Fax: (807) 737-1778 Email: [email protected] Web: www.siouxlookout.com

In 1977 Karl moved to Sioux Lookout and ran the scheduled service from there. In 1979 a hanger was built. “It was so nice to work on the planes inside” he commented.

Shortly after regular scheduled service started from Sioux Lookout to Thunder Bay and then the Thunder Bay base started.

Bearskin got the Beech 99 turbo props in 1981 and developed additional scheduled service all over Northwestern Ontario and also flew a lot of medevacs. In 1992 Bearskin got the Metros and expanded east.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 15 Even when times were tough in those days, customer service ranked high with the owners. Karl always believed in putting passenger comfort and convenience first. “You gotta make the passengers want to come back,” he stated.

Rick Baratta

A graduate of Lakehead University (1976) and a chartered accountant since 1979, Rick Baratta joined between Northern Ontario’s two largest Bearskin Airlines in 1985 as the cities – Thunder Bay and Sudbury. company’s Financial Controller, became its Vice-President of Finance The Metroliners fit the bill for and CFO a year later, and after what we needed. Today, Bearskin 27 years of service with Bearskin, has 16 Metroliners and are the only retired in December 2012. planes it flies on its routes. With a standardized fleet of Metroliners, We had been flying Beech 99s there are cost savings in things like and Beech King Air 100s and were training, maintenance and inventory. considering adding a couple of used planes to our fleet. A representative Buying those two first Metroliners on from Fairchild came up from Texas New Year’s Eve changed the dynamics on New Year’s Eve in 1991 to try of Bearskin Airlines. and sell us two used Beech 1900Cs they had for sale. While negotiating, he started telling us about their Brad Martin 19-passenger Metroliner planes, how they were fast, fuel efficient and Brad Martin, a graduate a good replacement for the small of Confederation College’s Aviation airplanes we flew. We hadn’t heard Flight Management (1977), has over much about the Metroliners before 35 years of aviation experience with the Fairchild guy told us about them. Bearskin beginning as a pilot in 1978 and moving up the ladder to his current Well, instead of two used planes, position of Vice-President of Operations. we ended up buying two brand new Metroliners. We gave him a deposit, Looking back at major events since but at the end of the day, he forgot joining Bearskin, like the introduction to take the deposit and left it on the of the reservation system, introduction desk when he flew back to Texas. of turbine equipment and the expansion

We used the two new Metroliners for the first time on September 14, 1992, on the inaugural flight A de Havilland Otter docks in the ice at the Sioux Lookout Base in the 1970’s.

16 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine of airline where we had a number of growth spurts, one such growth spurt was particularly unique.

It was in the late 1980s when acquired , which had been our major competitor for the past 10 years. Out of the blue, Austin was departing Northwestern Ontario and asked if we could take over their route structure if they vacated.

We would have 30 days to get it all done – 30 days to source equipment; find people from mechanics to pilots; hire and train them; find, fund, secure founded in and do maintenance on equipment to operate in all those communities – plus maintain all of our own air services. Craftsmanship growing with TECHNOLOGY

www.premierprinting.ca

ONE BEGHIN AVENUE WINNIPEG, MANITOBA R2J 3X5 PH. 204 663 9000 • FAX 204 663 9202

Great Stays Start Here.®

We had a highly charged team BOOK & SAVE of employees, producing outstanding results. We put it all together. At the Book a room online or by end of the 30 days, we closed the phone, use the Promo deal and within six months, had Code “BEAR” and receive doubled the size of Bearskin Airlines. 15% off your night stay. Then, when Air Canada, the owner of Air Ontario, opted not to travel on the remote gravel airstrips, they contracted out to us and we became their feeder network, and joined their Aeroplan frequent flyer program.

When future historians write about Canadian aviation, thanks to the Winnipeg, Manitoba Thunder Bay, Ontario Flin Flon, Manitoba original owners, Bearskin Airlines 1.877.842.4667 1.800.387.3331 1.877.707.7555 has already earned a prominent spot 1808 Wellington Ave. 555 West Arthur St. 160 HWY 10 A North as one of the most successful and longest-running . www.vicinn.com And hey, after 50 years, Bearskin isn’t finished yet – it is still making history! Subject to Availability, offer based on BAR rate or higher, not valid with any other offer, one promotion per room, valid in Winnipeg, Thunder Bay and Flin Flon only. Offer Expires December 30, 2013.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 17 By Elle Andra-Warner

One of Bearskin Airlines’ first planes, a de Havilland Otter, was in service from 1963 to the late 1980’s.

18 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine It was July 17, 1963, at Big Trout Lake, Ontario, when Norwegian-born bush pilot Otto John Heglund launched Bearskin Lake Air Service, naming the company after the First Nations community located 270 miles northeast of Sioux Lookout, Ontario. Heglund began operations with a fleet of two Cessna 180s to which he soon added a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver. The idea to start Bearskin Airlines however began much earlier, when Cessna 180 he was flying a two-seat Tiger Moth biplane delivering food and supplies from his general store at Bearskin de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver on skiis Lake to camps out on the trap line.

Harvey Friesen (now President and CEO) joined Bearskin in the winter of 1970 and flew Cessna 180s on skis, flying nurses on day-trips to other communities. Harvey recalls, “While the nurses tended to the community, I’d be flying ‘side trips’ for local trappers, hunters and people just wanting to visit relatives in another community.”

Those were the days of rugged bush flying for Bearskin and Harvey had his share of being stranded due to weather. During one severe snowstorm, he and his mechanic stayed with a trapper in a tent for two days. ”We’d sit back, tell stories, and listen to the wind howl outside. Another time a storm forced me to spend a night in a First Nations family’s fish camp in the far north.”

Business was good and the company expanded, continually adding aircraft to their fleet, including a Cessna 185; Beech 18 on wheels; Noordyn Norseman; Piper Navajo, Navajo Chieftain and Aztec for charter Beech 18 added in 1974 work; and a de Havilland Otter.

Piper Aztec used for charters in 1975

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 19 Navajo Chieftain flying over Big Trout Lake

Twin engine unpressurized Beech 99 In the late 1970s, when airstrips were completed in the remote communities, Bearskin began its evolution from a bush plane service to a commuter airline, changing its fleet to small two-engine aircraft that flew faster and more economically than bush planes.

By the mid-1980s, all northern communities had airstrips and Bearskin Airlines fleet had moved out of float and ski planes. Now they were flying twin-engine 15-passenger Beech 99s and twin-engine 8-10 passenger Single engine Pilatus 12 turboprop Beech King Air 100s.

In 1991, Bearskin added two Fairchild Metroliners to their fleet. Seven years later, in the fall of 1998, fleet expansion continued Twin engine King Air 100 when Bearskin purchased the first of six Swiss-made Pilatus PC-12 single-engine turbine aircraft. By Piper Navajo 2003, two of the Pilatus were sold to another airline and the others sold over the years.

Today, Bearskin Airlines operates one aircraft type, the Fairchild Metroliner. Created by the legendary aircraft designer from Texas, Ed Swearingen, the Metroliner was developed specifically to serve the market. Equipped with twin turbine engines, these Fairchild Metroliner 19-passenger, pressurized aircraft offer exceptional speed and range.

Now proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary, Bearskin currently operates 16 Metroliners, with more than 100 departures daily to 18 destinations in Ontario and Manitoba.

20 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine At Bearskin Airlines we take supporter of . Hope Air is another $90,000 in our 15th Annual pride in our role as a community a national registered charity founded Charity Golf Classic series. The help supporter. For the past fifty years in 1986 and dedicated to arranging of many local and regional companies we have become a solid partner in free air transportation for Canadians, as well as hundreds of golfers who supporting community events and who are in financial need and take part each year complements development projects, building require non-emergency medical care our role as the principal organizer. the economy, creating jobs and outside of their home community. In establishing important transportation recognition of Bearskin’s long standing Through a tradition of participation links with communities in the north. support, Hope Air presented its first and a culture of giving, the employees We remain committed to investing ever Outstanding Philanthropist of Bearskin Airlines have been in the communities we serve and the Award to Bearskin Airlines in 2010. supporting the United Way people who live there. Why? Because This award recognized the exceptional Thunder Bay Campaign for many we are here for the long haul. contribution Bearskin Airlines has years, encouraging employee payroll made to the Hope Air mission since deductions and by organizing events We don’t believe that a lack 1988 and to this day, Bearskin Airlines and activities to bring employees of financial means should limit continues to be one of Hope Air’s together and raise the moral of the someone from receiving the most significant contributors. Company. Bearskin Airlines is proud healthcare they require. Since 1988, of its employees who worked hard to Bearskin Airlines has been an active In 1999, Bearskin Airlines hosted attain the Diamond Level Corporate the first Annual Bearskin Airlines Leaders Recognition in 2012 and expect Charity Golf Classics in four of its a similar level of commitment in 2013. communities served raising over Above: (l-r) Sue Childs, Susan Childs, $60,000 for local charities. Since The Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic Liz Manahan, Erin Manahan, Judy then, $1,388,000 has been raised is a curling bonspiel for women, raising Gerry, Cliff Friesen, Dave Knudson, for various local charities through money to fight Breast Cancer. Bearskin Mary Wheatley and Barb Whitney. 2012 and in 2013 we expect to raise Airlines has been the title sponsor

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 21 of this event since its inception in 1997. Although the organizing committee lost its founder and chair, Linda Buchan, on December 11, 2002, a core group of volunteers has carried on Linda’s dream. The 2013 total of $155,000 brings to $2,403,000 and counting raised in the North and Stays in the North to fight this terrible disease. Linda never wanted the Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic to be about her. She wanted it to be about “making a difference to the lives of women in Northwestern Ontario.” We are extremely proud to support this event in a major way since 1997.

In 2011, following the long time success of The Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic, we agreed to become the title sponsor for Bearskin Airlines Skip to Equip Classic in Sioux Lookout. In this new annual curling event, (l-r) Helen Trochimchuk, Charter Sales and Harvey Friesen, President of Bearskin women from across Northwestern Airlines; Skip to Equip Committee – Kelli Baker, Marlene MacDonald, DeAnna Lance, Ontario get together to curl and have Vera Kameda-LaCroix, Laurel Hakala, Janine Lavoie, Jeanet Pierce, Muriel Anderson a great time while raising money for – Chair, and Kathryn Davidson. Missing: Kristyn Kulchyski and Jacki Duhamel. a worthy cause. $58,000 was raised by the curlers and sponsors in 2012 and the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre Foundation was Ontario communities including 6 that Influential Women of Northern the major benefactor as well as the we serve daily. Cancer affects many Ontario Awards, all recognizing the Sioux Lookout Golf and Curling Club. of our family members, employees, accomplishments of the business Curling and fundraising is important and valued customers. We were customers we serve each day. to northerners and Bearskin Airlines pleased to be able to support this event is proud to be part of these two for the 6th consecutive year in 2013. Our longtime support of the major curling fundraisers as well as Northern Ontario Business Awards the Official Airline of (NOCA) the As Northern Ontario’s leading (since 1993) and Influential Northern Ontario Curling Association, business airline, we are proud to Women of Northern Ontario promoting the sport of curling be a Major Corporate Sponsor Awards (since 2003) is indicative throughout the communities we serve. of Northern Ontario’s leading of our understanding that the business events including the success of our customers leads Our Regional Sponsorship of the Nishnawbe-Aski Development Fund to success for all northerners. Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Business Awards, the Northern Life in 2013 covered 12 Northwestern Ontario Business Awards and Bearskin Airlines’ 2013 sponsorship of the Nishnawbe-Aski Development Fund Business Awards will represent our 23rd consecutive year. Our support from the inception of these awards is related to our commitment to supporting the development of Aboriginal business throughout Northern Ontario and the cities we serve. We understand that our business has grown and prospered with the support of our customers, and our First Nations customers have been among our most loyal supporters since 1963.

22 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine We take pride in the fact that our company was born in the North and continues to serve the north, providing air service to many smaller cities that are important to our business customers who choose to live and work in Northern Ontario and Top: Leona Haskins announces Northern Manitoba. the winner of the “Penny War,” just one of the many fundraisers Our involvement in the communities held throughout the year by we serve is much deeper than recorded Bearskin employees in support on these pages. From help in the of the United Way. formation of the Northern Ontario Medical School — sponsorship of a float Bottom left: Employees in the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest ride the Big Bike for Heart Thanksgiving Day Parade to the and Stroke Foundation. Flin Flon Bombers, and numerous youth hockey players and golf tournaments Bottom right: Stan Kapashesit and Camp Quality among others. (left) of Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation The longtime support of our receives the NADF 2012 customers provides us the Executive of the Year award opportunity to give back to the presented by Harvey Friesen, communities and individuals we President of Bearskin Airlines. serve. Thank you to all our customers for your continued support!

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 23 24 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Largest 4G Network in the Region

Tbaytel has Northern Ontario’s largest 4G Network. Which means you get more coverage in more places than anyone else. When it comes to who has the largest 4G network in Northern Ontario, the facts speak for themselves – more sites mean more coverage. Period.

THE TBAYTEL DIFFERENCE

tbaytel.net

548_Tbaytel_Brand_Bearskin_50th Anniversary_4.75x4.75.indd 1 Bear Country In-Flight13-04-23 Magazine 11:08 AM25 36 YEARS 33 YEARS extend from Northwestern Manitoba Randy Sulkers Bill Uren to Southeastern Ontario and even Director of Sioux Lookout Southwestern Ontario. Maintenance Maintenance Manager Our fleet of aircraft has changed Of the 50 years that ‘The Bear’ There have been a lot of changes from a mix of 4 to 14 seat aircraft has been in existence, I have had the in all areas, but the most obvious (Piper Navajo, Aztec, T1040; privilege to serve 37 of them and one is the size of the company. Cessna 180, 185, 337; Beech A100, continue to do so. 99) to faster 19 seat pressurized When I first hired on we had a Fairchild Metro aircraft. When I started in 1976, there fleet of all different kinds of aircraft were the owners Harvey and Anna ranging from Cessna 180s thru to As with all small airlines, we have Friesen, and five pilots — Karl DC3 aircraft. At that time we were seen our share of employee turnover Friesen, Dave Riddel, Dave Baxter, a wheel, float, ski operation and as a but we also have a core of long term Jim Creighton, and Dan Dugard. maintenance person you could be in a employees that help provide a solid In maintenance there was Owner, mosquito infested swamp or freezing base that compliments the energy and pilot, and Chief Engineer Henri to death in the middle of some enthusiasm that we see from the new Boulanger, apprentice Lawrence frozen desolate lake fixing an aircraft. employees. Many former Bearskin Childsforever and myself. Dock Today, we have a full fleet of Metro pilots are now captains and first hands were Joe Chapman and aircraft that fly airport to airport and officers at airlines such as Westjet, any of the above including Harv a lot more staff involved to keep the Air Canada, and . and Anna who were not doing operation running. A bush trip now something at the time when needed. has a whole different meaning. Overall, the changes that I have witnessed have resulted in a safer, It was a team effort that got things Presently I see us in transition as more efficient airline and a very done then as it is now. That has not the older employees are preparing rewarding place to work. changed over the years and I truly for retirement and the younger are believe it was that same team effort, stepping up to take the Company drive and determination that made to new heights. My hope for BLAS this company into what it is today. in the future is that everyone remembers that as individuals we 24 YEARS I recall all of us sitting in Harv are good, but as a team we are Rob Marsh and Anna`s living room one winter awesome and can do great things. Metro Captain night in Big Trout Lake after dinner, discussing what direction the I started with Bearskin in December company should take next. Harv was 1989. My first revenue flight as a newly looking to his team for their input certified Beech 99 First Officer was on what type of aircraft to buy next 25 YEARS a return trip from Thunder Bay to or sell. Should we consider wheeled Jason Friesen Minneapolis. After an hour break I twin engine aircraft as more and Chief Pilot was back in the air for a Thunder Bay more reserves were getting gravel to Fort Hope return trip. In a matter strips or stay with floats and skiis. Since starting at Bearskin in 1988, of hours I went from the fast pace At that time the company consisted I have seen many changes to the of a major international airport to the of one twin engine Aztec, one company. Our primary area of service on-your-own flying at an uncontrolled single engine Otter, a Norsemen has evolved from remote Northern snow-covered gravel runway. This and two Cessna 180’s and a 185. Ontario communities to the large summed up the diverse type of flying towns and small growing cities that that Bearskin did each day.

26 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 14 YEARS Linda Lesnick Lead Passenger Service Over the years Bearskin has gone Bearskin also used to fly several Agent – Red Lake through many transformations. We’ve different aircraft and has now gone from Navajos, Beech 99’s and migrated to one. A while back I have been with Bearskin Airlines Beech King Airs flying into Northern Bearskin used to fly to several remote since August 23, 1999 and there have Ontario gravel strips, to Fairchild communities but decided to reduce been many changes since that time. Metroliners flying city to city from the amount of destinations. Winnipeg to Ottawa with many When I first started we were destinations in between and beyond. The biggest change I have seen still servicing the Northern routes. is the sale (change of ownership) During that time we had Beach 99’s, We went from the earth tone paint of Bearskin Airlines from a King Air and Metro Aircraft. Then with the Bearskin , to the private company of five owners to we added on the Pilatus aircraft. current bear paw logo paint scheme. becoming a sister company in a large When the Northern routes were no organization. I hope to be around longer serviced by Bearskin we saw Over the years while many airlines for a long time yet. a fleet change to only the Metros. have tried rebranding with many different name changes, Bearskin The airline industry then was still Airlines has remained consistent using paper tickets and we watched with its identity. We’ve taken on the transformation to Electronic the nickname “The Bear,” added our 18 YEARS tickets and travel banks come into inflight magazine Bear Country and Karen Berringer service. Baggage was never an issue updated our jingle to “Let the Bear Marketing Assistant connecting to all destinations at the Take You There,” with the familiar beginning and then 9/11 happened song of the loon. After 50 years we My name is Karen Berringer and and the industry changed with the remain Bearskin Airlines. I am the Marketing Assistant here security measures tightening up, we at Bearskin Airlines. I have been could no longer check the baggage Since I began at Bearskin I’ve with The Bear for 18 years and have past the first secure station. seen many employees come and enjoyed growing and evolving right go and I’ve always noticed the along with the company. I began I saw the change from being a pride and dedication of everyone with Bearskin as a Reservation privately owned company to EIC at The Bear. To this day I share that Call Center Agent, and soon was happen and have always been proud dedication and I’m proud to be part splitting my time between there to be a Bearskin employee. of the Bearskin family.” and the Ticket/Check-in counter here in Thunder Bay.

I have experienced many changes 10 YEARS that Bearskin Airlines has gone Bev Schiefele 17 YEARS through, including the use of several Lead Passenger Service Gary Primrose different Computer Reservation Agent – Flin Flon, MB Director of IT systems. I was very involved in the early days of the implementation I am pleased to be part of the I have been working for Bearskin of our current system, Sabre Bearskin organization for about ten Airlines for about 17 ½ years now Airline Solutions, including being years of its 50 years in existence. and have seen many changes over a Trainer to many of our Counter the years. Aside of the numerous and Reservations agents. One very visible and attractive employees coming and going, I have thing that I have experienced was the also seen many changes in technology In my current role I have many implementation of the “bear paws” and aircraft. duties including updating our on the aircrafts and of course on our flight schedule in the Reservation uniforms. It is a very unique design I was involved in all of the System. Whether it be a minor and brings the attention to the airline. technology changes, including the time change or larger holiday implementation of our own Wide changes, I enjoy the challenges Another feature that was brought Area Network along with numerous this career brings daily. forward was the ability to leave software technologies such as our home on the morning flight, do Reservation System, email, internet, your business or shopping, and the Y2K scare and many more. still be back home for dinner.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 27 What hasn’t changed and what I enjoy most is our customers. We have

since 1970 a loyal group who enjoy our services FACTORY AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTRE and we appreciate their business. New customers are continuously coming on stream and it is our pleasure to always say “let the Bear take you there.”

Fire Protection • Oxygen • Inflation & Pneumatic • Cartridges • Crew Oxygen Masks On behalf of the Flin Flon • Securaplane Batteries and more counter, I would like to send our congratulations for reaching this Fax : 514 630-9999 • [email protected] • www.caspaerospace.com 98 Columbus Street, Pointe-Claire, Québec, Canada H9R 4K4 wonderful milestone and we are all happy to have been a small part of it.

12 YEARS Vicki LaBelle Supervisor – Sudbury Base

Bearskin Airlines has had such an exciting 50 years so far — we are growing by leaps and bounds! Though we have grown from our humble beginnings, we have kept our heart. Starting in Northern Ontario with service to small communities, with even smaller planes we have since expanded across all of Ontario and into Manitoba. With our new service points came additional aircrafts of increasing size. More importantly we were able to grow our Bear family. Our employees keep the heart of Bearskin alive with each additional new station and hire.

As a company we have also seen the growth of our . Numerous renovations and improvements in the Winnipeg, Thunder Bay, Sudbury and Ottawa airports have received not only critical acclaim internationally but also from our passengers; only adding to the Bearskin travel experience. In 50 years we have seen many great changes in the airline industry, the cities we service and within our company. The greatest gift of the last 50 years is the longevity to see both company and community families grow with us. We cannot wait to see where we go in the next fifty! Bearskin Airlines — Impressive growth with small town heart.

28 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Bearskin Airlines’ employees are a close-knit team of dedicated workers. Much of our success is attributed to their hard work and we thank you. Today, Bearskin employs just over 300 people in the 18 destinations that we serve in Ontario and Manitoba.

Flin Flon, manitoba The Pas, manitoba Passenger Service Agents (l-r) back: Heather Hammond Passenger Service Agent and Bev Schiefele; front: Melanie Dominey and Debbie Giesbrecht. Dana Kozlowski.

Winnipeg, manitoba

Passenger Service Agents (l-r) back: Patty Vadivelu, Tatiana Pagano, Diane Lenon, Marose Merino and Richard Weide; front: Thalia Johnstone, Maria Paul, Julie Dayholos and Gail Hipe. Missing: Kammer Kinnarath. Maintenance (l-r): Darren Blanchette, Kevin Haney, Stephen Catellier and Scott Fowler. Missing: Chris Blackham and Calvin Boutillier.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 29 Kenora, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Mary-Anne Rensch, Kayla Worsnop and Jillian Manley. Missing: Irene Parish.

Fort Frances, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Nicole Duffy, Megan Soderholm, Jennifer Kivimaki and Monique Bekesi.

Red Lake, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Barb Crosby, Sherry Watson, Melinda Daigle, Linda Lesnick, Phyllis Halteman and Shirley Brooks. Missing: Lyndsey Desjardins.

Sioux Lookout, ontario

(l-r) back: Rose Turetski, Katie Sissons, Colleen Haskins, Doug Hogg, Bill Uren, Randy Sulkers, Don Siemens and Gerald Rogers; front: Anna Friesen, Harvey Friesen (President), Melissa Verboom, Alex Friesen and Mike O'Brien. Maintenance (l-r): Lisa Kolehmainen, Conway Brown, Chris Haskins, Edgar Turallo, Brendon Korhonen, Shawn Caul and Justin Emberley. Missing: Stan Marshall and James Doggett. Passenger Service Agents (1-r): Corine Shumka, Sharon Nichol, Cindy Davies, Marci Driver and Maurice Shyntak (Ground Handler). Missing: Kim Suprovich, Ronnie Ramasamy and Ethan Hodgson.

30 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Thunder Bay, ontario

Administration (l-r): Grant Miller, Karen Hovi, Kyle Baratta, Donna Marsh, Antonio Fabiano, Brian Dzijak, Mike Danylko, Gary Primrose, Melanie Carlson, Daniela Saez-Hamilton, Désirée Zambon, Theresa Whent, Judy Hooker, Terri Busch, Florina Nisioiu, Leona Haskins, Zhu Bao Co and Cliff Friesen (Executive Vice President).

Marketing (l-r): Terry Crewson, Helen Trochimchuk, Ron Hell (Director of Marketing), Leeann Organ, Diana Shewchuk, Karen Berringer and Patti Gresham. Dispatch (l-r): Maureen Massaro, Marlene Racic (Supervisor), Travis Bishop, Gaye Manson, Mathieu Lalancette, Holly Broadhead and Hellen Girard ( front).

Passenger Service Agents (l-r) top: Marta Kiraga, Jennifer Tran and Gina Duhaime; front: Lacey Stirrup, Terri Gauthier, Erin Wheeler, Angie Edwards, Anna Maria Santorelli and Rosa Carina. Missing: Emilia Honke, Mallory Livingston, Richelle Midak, Jessica Morris and Christine Swanton. Quality Assurance and Tech Records (l-r): Karin Kruppa, Lee Waddington and Barb Walker. Training and Safety Management Systems (l-r): Maria Pedulla, Richard Gareau and Sherry Youmans.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 31 parts The Bearskin Parts Team is responsible for the control and distribution of the parts at all four maintenance bases and all points throughout the Bearskin network of stations. (l-r) Jason Hamer, Alex Bell, Bonnie Kangas, Timo Korpi and James Dampier. Missing: Jade Mauro, Timo Korpi Jr. and Adam Wright.

Ground Handlers and Groomers (l-r): Steve Domineck, David Brouwer, Adam Isaacson and Brian Alguire. Missing: BJ Bloye, Stephan Cerqueira, David Crocker, Austin McKinnon and Ian Novak.

Perimeter Aviation is a diversified company with a fleet offering a wide variety of charter options and 24/7 medevac transport to anywhere in Canada and the US. As well, Perimeter offers scheduled service to 22 communities in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario. With a fleet offering a first class executive aircraft, a Come fly with us. comfortable 45 passenger full-service aircraft, and an efficient cargo-only aircraft – with many options in between, chartering has never been easier.

Toll free: 1-800-665-8986 Phone: (204) 480-4023 E-mail: [email protected] www.perimeter.ca

32 Charters-GeneralAd.indd Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 1 2013-01-25 11:20 AM maintenance

In Thunder Bay, our main maintenance hub, we have 34 maintenance professionals that keep the Bearskin’s 16 Fairchild Metro Aircraft in the air safely and economically. Maintaining aircraft is an expensive business so we try to do as much as we can in-house with the overhaul and repair of the components of our aircraft. In Thunder Bay the Component Shop takes care of the wheels, brakes, and batteries; the Sheet Metal Shop does (l-r): Brian Trottier, Chris Broman, Sean Ladouceur, Kalyn Killins, Jacob French, Jamie Campagnolo and Richard Plunkett. sheet metal components with flight controls and structural repairs to the (l-r) back: Dennis Trush, Kurt Dziver, Chris Currie, Dan Jameus, Matt aircraft when needed and our Engine Fowler and John Heath; front: Arnie Procyshen, Lorie Plumpton, Brian Shop overhauls and repairs our engines. Trottier, Anthony Kukula, Ken Badiuk, Burke Kilgour and John Karasiewicz. Also in Thunder Bay, all the maintenance planning is coordinated from here to our four maintenance bases. Our maintenance planner tracks the scheduled maintenance coming due and works with our dispatch department to ensure the aircraft get to a maintenance base to have the maintenance completed on time. At our Region of Waterloo base we have eight maintenance professionals, completing day to day maintenance that is required on the aircraft. Our AMO (Approved Maintenance Organization) is approved by to perform maintenance and overhaul for our Aircraft, components of the aircraft, Avionics, structures, welding and NDT. It takes a talented and hardworking maintenance department to contribute to keeping an airline like the ‘Bear’ in the air for the past 50 years and in the future. — Dan Jameus, Maintenance Manager

(l-r): Anthony Piscioneri, Dennis Meo, Danny Allen, Gord Pattrosson and Jeff Salmela.

Engine Shop (l-r): Mike Ferra, Geoff Grayson, Karin Kruppa, Kyle Friesen, Pino Migliazza and Jason Shewchuk.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 33 Sault Ste. Marie, ONtario Passenger Service Agents and Pilots (l-r): Kyle Baxter, Carl Eliason, Denise Bertie, Amanda Lesage, Meaghan MacDonald, Rob Payne and Ian Minthorn.

Sudbury, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Stacey Will-Harapiak, Sarah Plante, Chloë Mirfield, Ilka Ethier (Eastern Region Manager), Vicki Labelle, Andrée Bédard, Jessica Robichaud, Savannah Jones. Missing: Jeannie Boulard, Mary Cucksey and Marcey Miron-Barbe.

Timmins, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Tasha Bustraen, Nadia Govorova and Tammy Levesque.

Kapuskasing, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Amy Salonen, Nicole Bourgeois and Christena Tremblay.

North Bay, ONtario Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Danielle Amyotte, Jennifer McCarthy and Jessica Johnston.

34 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Ottawa, ONtario Hamilton, ONtario (Contract: ASIG) Passenger Service Agents (l-r): Adela (l-r) back: Dylan Wood, Danny Papachristos, Jacob Miller (Senior Patenaude, Lisa Ross, Heidi Pinsent, Rosemarie Lead), Reg Somogy, Katherine Espinoza (Customer Service Manager), Adriano Estioko, Tobie Wong and Sophie Wayne Dalton (Station Manager), Kathy Simpson and Dan Jackson Dumouchel. Missing: Jason Morris, Guido Garay, (Supervisor); front: Ashley Little, Spencer Mogridge, Ryan Cummins, Amelia Herrera, David Poirier and Yagu Coker. Dan Kentish, Robbie Elmer, Tim Merklinger and James Carlino.

Region of Waterloo, ONtario (Contract: Fliteline Services)

(l-r): Captain Oman Norquay, Bryant Galbraith (Line Crew), Andrew Maintenance (l-r): Nathan From, Chipperfield (Passenger Service Agent), Asiea Khan (Passenger Service Agent), Tim Anthony and Ryan McRory. Melissa Ehrlich (Passenger Service Agent) and Richard Schadlinger (Line Crew).

DRYDEN, ONtario (Contract: David Wessel) (l-r) David Wessel, Sonia Pike and Derek Kennedy. Missing: Pat McMenemy and Doug McMillan.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 35 Flight Operations / Administration

Flight Operations (Flight Ops) is responsible to ensure that the regulatory requirements of the flight crew are being met, from liaisons with all regulatory authorities to qualification of the flight crew. Flight Ops ensures that crew scheduling complies with all regulations, an example being flight and duty times, and keeps all crew informed of any changes to the Canadian Aviation Regulations and Standards. Our Chief Pilot is responsible for the adherence to the regulations as well as professional standards of the flight crews including training, development of Standard Operating Procedures and supervision of flight crew. The department has support staff who provide a high degree of clerical support for Flight (l-r) Steve Mauro (Director of Operations), Jason Friesen Ops by maintaining several databases of operational (Chief Pilot), Lisa Nash (Base Manager Thunder Bay), Anne pilots employed by the company, as well as Sirkkunen (Flight Ops Clerk), Margie Boyechko (Assistant coordinating the requirements and needs of these to VP Operations), James Reszitnyk (Flight Co-ordinator / databases with Dispatch and Company trainers. Charters) and Brad Martin (Vice President of Operations).

Winnipeg base flight crew

(l-r) Captain Shaun Ingoldsby Captain Jason Walkey First Officer Dan Batikoff

First Officer David Lewis First Officer Krill Lofichenko First Officer Kevin Nixon

Missing: Captain Mark Buchkowski, Captain Doug Foubister, Captain Zuzana Kolarova, Captain Laird Penney, Captain John Struthers, Captain Peter Traczuk, First Officer Keith Hoffman, First Officer Tim Krynen and First Officer Ani Sawant.

Sioux Lookout base flight crew

Captain Karl Friesen, Vice President of Flight Operations First Officer Johan Friesen

Missing: Captain Roy Seamark and First Officer Rinat Saffulin.

36 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Thunder Bay base flight crew

Chief Pilot Jason Friesen Captain Kyle Baxter Captain Ed Bergman Captain Gary Coughlin Captain Carl Eliason Captain Lee Erickson

Captain Keith Haering Captain Glen Irwin Captain Derek Jones Captain Robert Marsh Capt. Steve Mauro, Director of Operations

Captain Robert Maxwell Captain Dan Murray Captain Nikki O’Connor Captain Dan Parnham Captain David Rohtenburger Captain Jan Szczygielski

First Officer Brandon Adamache First Officer Glenn Barrett First Officer Emlyn Currer First Officer Jeff Davy First Officer Jason Dixon

First Officer Ian Minthorn First Officer David Page First Officer Rob Payne First Officer James Pearce First Officer Kevin Sant First Officer Grant Thorner

Missing: Captain Steve Appleton, Captain Ryan Eastick, Captain Sean Faid, Captain Patrick Haering, Captain Derek Morton, Captain Peter Polkki, Captain Maurice Roux, Captain Luke Sokol, First Officer Amy Abbick, First Officer Mathieu Bazinet, First Officer David Houghton, First Officer Chris Kinkade, First Officer Krisztian Kismrczi, First Officer Cowie Shannon, First Officer Kim Steingass, First Officer Michael Walker and First Officer Darren Zacharias.

region of waterloo base flight crew

Captain Shane Jackson Captain Oman Norquay Captain John Swain Captain Jason Ward

First Officer Adrian Bossers First Officer Evan Braatz First Officer Nathan Churchill First Officer Cory Raby

Missing: Captain Rob Buie, Captain Michael Mook Sang, First Officer Kevin Berrey and First Officer Troy Chute.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 37 Top 50 Reasons to Fly the “Bear”

50 You can help us celebrate Thunder Bay, Sault Ste Marie, 17 Convenient online bookings. our 50th Anniversary! Sudbury, Timmins and North Bay. 16 User friendly web site. 49 Were a unique airline serving a 32 A great way to “see the sights” Avoid the hassle of Lester B. unique part of Canada. since we fly at lower altitudes. 15 Pearson Airport in Toronto 48 Our continued sponsorship 31 Each year, we fly a group of by flying direct with us! of the Bearskin Airlines lucky children to the “North Pole” Occasional celebrity sightings Hope Classic Curling Bonspiel to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. 14 on board! has raised 2.4 million (so far!) 30 We can take you to numerous for Northern Cancer research. local festivals and events like 13 You could be flying with a 47 We have cool “Bear Wear” you the Sioux Lookout Blueberry real bear in the cargo hold! can purchase to show off your Festival, The Norseman Festival We provide animal rescue Northern Ontario pride. in Red Lake, Harbourfest in services for orphaned or Kenora and Lumberjack Days injured wildlife and have flown 46 After 50 years we’re still growing! in Kapuskasing. many a bear in our days. 45 Our schedule is designed to 29 We are Northern Ontario’s 12 Several fares are lower than a bus get you away and back home hometown airline. fare without the long tedious ride. in the same day. 28 Our high-frequency service is 11 Great seat sale fares offered 44 Our Passenger Service Agents geared to serving the business several times a year. are always smiling. community better! 10 Up close and personal 43 We have some of the newest 27 A chance to read Bear Country, with flight crew. Metro’s flying today! our in-flight magazine focused 9 Reliable, modern fleet of aircraft. 42 Every two months, our Bearmail on people, places and events members have a chance to win a in the communities we serve. 8 Bragging rights! So you have free trip! Have you signed up? visited the pyramids… but have 26 We have a great team of employees. you flown “The Bear?” We have cool paw prints 41 25 Earn Aeroplan miles on every on our aircraft. Efficient system-wide flight. Redeem them with us, too! 7 cargo service. Join the club! We have millions 40 24 Multi-lingual agents in several of satisfied passengers since 1963. Excellent care in handling stations, including French, Italian, 6 your bags. 39 We’re grateful for your support. Finnish and Vietnamese. 5 Safe and very reliable service. 38 We offer Branded Fares, each 23 Friendly, personal service at with different characteristics check in — frequent flyers are on a 4 Convenient connections with to meet the needs of business first name basis with most agents! other airlines at Winnipeg, and leisure passengers. 22 We have a close working Ottawa and Thunder Bay. 37 We’re proud to be an equal relationship with the travel agents 3 We’re on the Toronto Stock opportunity employer. in the communities we serve. Exchange. If you own shares in 36 Lots of leg room. 21 Largest hangar in Northwestern Exchange Income Corporation Ontario, providing first class (TSX:EIF), you’re a shareholder! We shop locally — and 35 maintenance facilities. support local businesses in 2 “The Bear” can take you from the the communities we serve — 20 You can golf with “The Bear” Nickel Capital of the World to whenever possible. in our annual Bearskin Airlines our National Capital faster than Charity Golf Classics. any other airline! Just 90 minutes 34 One way fares (in most markets) on regular scheduled flights do not require a Saturday night 19 We support the communities (Sudbury-Ottawa). stay to get the lowest fare! we serve. When you fly the “Bear,” 33 More service to Northern 18 Be the first to learn about 1 Ontario’s five largest cities seat sales when you sign up you always get an aisle than any other airline! That is: to receive Bearmail. and a window seat!

38 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Bearskin Airlines is grateful to those airports LYNN LAKE AIRPORT (CYYL) FLIN FLON AIRPORT (CYFO) and services that support From mineral exploration, Located 20 kilometers southeast fishing, hunting or business, of the city of Flin Flon, the airport our growth, development Lynn Lake Airport is your portal to is operational 24 hours a day, 7 days and continued service in True Northern Adventure. Owned a week. Capable of supporting and operated by the Town of Lynn both, day and night VFR and IFR Ontario and Manitoba. Our Lake, the airport has a 5,000 by 150 operations. The Flin Flon Airport success and longevity is foot paved runway with both airside serves both private and commercial and groundside commercial land operations along with a tanker built on a solid foundation available for development. Bearskin base for the Ministry of Natural of support from these offers more than 40 flights seasonally Resources Water Bombers. The between Winnipeg and Lynn Lake Airport terminal building provides outstanding partners in including Saturday service from space for airline, car rental, gift aviation. We look forward May to September. Contact us by shop, airport operations and general phone (204) 356-2900 or email public use. Contact us by phone to our future together! [email protected], or visit (204) 687-7447, fax (204) 687-6673, us at www.lynnlake.ca. or email [email protected]. Thank you.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 39 THE PAS AIRPORT (CYQD)

The Pas Airport proudly serves the The Pas and Area as one of the gateways to your northern Manitoba experience. The 1,118 acre airport is located on Clearwater Lake one of the three “true blue” lakes in the world with close access to many hunting and fishing lodges. Also, the airport offers daily scheduled passenger to Winnipeg, features a 5,900 foot runway, 24 hour a day Jet A and AVGAS availability and we are always looking for interested parties in developing our many commercial and lake front lots. Contact us by phone (204) 624-5233, fax (204) 624-5678, email [email protected], or visit www.thepasarea.com.

40 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine Kopelow Gerry Credit:

Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (CYWG)

Located at the heart of the continent, Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is your gateway to exciting destinations. With an ever-expanding selection of restaurants and shops to choose from, including local and international favourites, make sure to explore our community’s airport on your next trip. Visit www.waa.ca.

CONGRATULATIONS ON 50 YEARS!

Sioux Lookout Airport (CYXL)

Located approximately 400 km northwest of Thunder Bay and 450 km east of Winnipeg, the airport serves a catchment area of 30,00 people as From the Management and Staff at the an important regional transportation Red Lake Municipal Airport hub to the surrounding region and 29 remote northern communities in addition to providing access to the community from larger urban The City of Dryden centres. Owned and operated by the Municipality of Sioux Lookout, and the Dryden the airport has a 5,300 by 100 foot Regional Airport paved runway with both airside Drydencongratulate Regional and groundside serviced lots BearskinAirport & AirlinesNorthwest on available for development. Contact Region Forest us by phone (807) 737-2829 or visit 50 years of service www.siouxlookoutairport.ca. Fire Management www.dryden.caCentre and Aviation Services Hangar www.dryden.ca

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 41 (CYRL)

Red Lake Airport is located 1 km south of Cochenour, Ontario and serves as a point of call for Air Carriers offering scheduled passenger service, an operating base for Ontario MNR, and services both private and commercial fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter operators located on site. In October 2011, a new state-of-the-art Airport Terminal opened its doors to serve the growing numbers of regional visitors and travellers. Travellers now enter a building that boasts large ticket and rental car counters, luggage carousel and naturally lit seating areas. Contact us by phone (807) 662-2581, e-mail [email protected], or visit us at www.flynorth.ca. CONISDER DEVELOPING ON AIRPORT LAND. HERE’S WHY... • Fully serviced lots (power, water, sewer) • 24 hour security/emergency services • Access to commercial and charter air travel • Central and ideal positioning for global growth • Water quality, flow and pressure meet orexceed fire protection requirements • Fibre optic access, food services on-site and executive boardroom facilities

Call toll-free 1.855.FLY.2YSB More info available at flysudbury.ca. FORT FRANCES AIRPORT (CYAG)

Fort Frances Airport is a designated “Port of Entry” to Canada, offering 24-hour Customs and Immigration Services. Some of the other services offered are aviation fuel and oil, maps, charts, car rentals and aircraft parking. For more information visit operations.fort-frances.com/airport.

42 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine (DRA) THUNDER BAY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CYQT) Dryden Regional Airport is the aviation gateway to Dryden’s Thunder Bay Airport continues to Wilderness City, which is located in grow. The past year saw the setting the heart of Ontario’s Northwest. DRA of a new passenger record with over has the longest runway in the Region, 760,000 people arriving and departing. complete with the most modern air 2013 started with the return of direct navigation system (ILS) in Canada. service to the US with the arrival of United Airlines’ jet service to We are proud to be partners with Chicago. To learn more about what’s Bearskin Airlines in providing services going on at the Airport, please visit our to our Community. Congratulations Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ to Bearskin on 50 Years of Service. Thunder-Bay-International-Airport. Contact us by phone (807) 937-4959, email [email protected], or visit www.dryden.ca.

SAULT STE. MARIE AIRPORT (CYAM)

Sault Ste. Marie Airport has (CYQK) provided the vital air transportation link to the people and businesses The Kenora Airport has been in of Sault Ste. Marie and the District operation since 1936. At present the of Algoma since 1961. Since Airport is operated and maintained assuming ownership and control by the Kenora Airport Authority of the Airport from the Federal who officially took ownership from government in 1998, the Sault Transport Canada in 1996. The Ste. Marie Airport Development Airport boasts Customs, Terminal, Corporation (SSMADC) has strived FBO, tower, MNR to improve air transportation services Fire Base and many private for the community in a socially and hangars. Contact us by phone fiscally responsible manner, while (807) 548-5377, fax (807) 548-1460, being progressive in its efforts to email [email protected], or visit promote, develop and upgrade www.kenoraairport.ca. the Airport’s lands and facilities. The SSM airport would like to congratulate Bearskin on its 50th Anniversary. Contact us by phone (705) 779-3031, fax (705) 779-3371, or visit www.saultairport.com.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 43 GREATER (CYSB) (CYYU) NORTH BAY JACK GARLAND AIRPORT (CYYB) The Airport is one of Northern Ontario’s busiest Located within the town limits, North Bay Jack Garland Airport and is served by Air Canada with Kapuskasing Airport is used by more (YYB.ca) a multi-facetted modern daily flights to/from Toronto’s than 3,000 passengers annually. In facility, serving as a national and Pearson International Airport; Porter addition to the movement of people, international connector airport Airlines with daily service to/from the airport represents a significant for North Bay and other Northern downtown Toronto’s Billy Bishop employment spin-off on many Ontario communities. Outstanding City Airport; Bearskin Airlines with commercial sectors. development opportunities exist air service to/from many Northern in the new fully serviced Airport Ontario cities; and, Strategically located halfway Industrial Business Park. Whether with winter charters to various sun between North Bay and you’re arriving, departing, exploring destinations. For more information Thunder Bay, the airport offers ready or considering for your next business please visit www.flysudbury.ca. access to northern cities and major venture, our 10,000 foot runway urban centres in the south. Facilities connects us to world and is your include an air terminal building, passport to prosperity. Contact us car rental agencies, taxi service, by phone (705) 474-3020 or visit fueling and maintenance. Bearskin www.northbayairport.com. Airlines provides Kapuskasing travellers with three round trips daily (Monday to Friday and one on Sunday). Visit www.kapuskasing.ca.

TIMMINS VICTOR M. POWER AIRPORT (CYTS)

Owned and operated by the City of Timmins, it is one of the largest in Northern Ontario and a convenient gateway to Toronto and northern OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CyOW) communities. Open 24/7, the airport has a flight service station and Ottawa International Airport is a precision landing aids to ensure safe key driver of economic activity and and efficient air travel for both private proudly connects many of Ontario and commercial operations. It is also a communities with the nation’s capital. base for Ministry of Natural Resources Ottawa is also a strategic gateway and (Air Ambulance). to link Bearskin Airlines’ markets Contact us at (705) 360-2636 or with international destinations [email protected]. in Europe, the United States, and

YOUR BOARDING PASS TO PROSPERITY

FIRST CLASS INTERNATIONAL 10,000 FOOT CLASS GATE RUNWAY

THE SHOP THE DOCK 10 MINUTES yyb.ca/shoptodock DEPARTURE ARRIVAL E.T.A. NORTH BAY’S NEWEST FULLY SERVICED INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS PARK

44 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine the Caribbean. Find out more at www.ottawa-airport.ca, @FlyYOW, or facebook.com/FlyYOW. FOR BUSINESS.

When it comes to traveling from Southern Ontario, no one gets you flying faster. With shorter lines, faster security and convenient parking, YHM is your true partner in flight. FLYHAMILTON.CA

REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CYKF)

The Region of Waterloo International Airport is easy to navigate with free Wi-Fi, complimentary baggage carts, a licensed departure lounge café and low cost parking – just $6 a day. Providing non-stop daily with American to Chicago, WestJet to Calgary or Bearskin Airlines AIRPORT CODE to Ottawa. For more information, visit www.waterlooairport.ca.

The Ottawa International Airport Authority congratulates Bearskin Airlines on 50 great years. Félicitations! JOHN C. MUNRO HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CYHM)

When it comes to travelling from Southern Ontario, no one gets you flying faster than John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Located in the heart of the golden horseshoe, Hamilton International is mid-way between downtown Toronto and Niagara Falls, offering shorter lines, faster security and convenient parking. Bearskin provides round trip weekly service each Thursday between Hamilton and Kapuskasing. Contact us by phone at (905) 679-1999, email [email protected], or visit www.flyhamilton.ca. ottawa-airport.ca

FlyYOW

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine 45 Happy 50th Anniversary to our Partner Bearskin Airlines

CORPORATE & VACATION SPECIALISTS 705.564.9990 1.866.885.8846 www.merit.ca

266 Caswell Drive, Sudbury ON-4499356/4499372

46 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine *Lynn Lake

Flin Flon

The Pas

Red Lake

Winnipeg Sioux Lookout Kenora Dryden

Kapuskasing Fort Frances

Thunder Bay

Timmins

Sault Ste. Marie Sudbury North Bay Ottawa

Kitchener Waterloo

*Hamilton