Wayne Stetski, Member of Parliament for Kootenay – Columbia, is sponsoring a petition calling for federal Transport Minister Marc Garneau to recommend Air Canada maintain service between Canadian Rockies International Airport and Calgary International Airport.

The petition was initiated by William McKerrow in response to Air Canada’s announcement last month that it would stop flying the Cranbrook-Calgary route after April 29. The petition recommends that one trip per day in each direction be maintained.

On sponsoring the petition, MP Stetski said, “it is important to maintain transportation options in the region, particularly since we’re still facing gaps from the departure of Greyhound bus service in 2018.”

When asked what inspired Mr. McKerrow to pursue this petition he shared, “residents of Cranbrook and surrounding areas are facing ever growing barriers in accessing essential services such as treatment options in areas such as mental health, addictions, and health care in general. Although our East Kootenay Regional Hospital is expanding, there is still a gap in services, which leave residents having to access outside communities. Additionally, it leaves residents of our rural communities further isolated.”

The petition highlights the importance of national airline service between Cranbrook and Calgary to the local economy, noting that regional tourism marketing organizations have targeted campaigns around the air service.

The petition raises concerns about seat availability with a single airline operating the route as well as the possibility of an increase to the Airport Improvement Fee.

The electronic petition is open to signatures until May 9.

The paper petition can be signed at MP Stetski’s Cranbrook constituency office until May 9, and extra copies can be obtained by contacting the office. The petition will be presented in the House of Commons in May.

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