[LikeHamilton]

This is schedule for tomorrow and Wednesday. There is only one flight in with passengers as the other aircraft will be there for the official kick off at 2 pm in Hamilton.

Arrives in YHM

1-May Doncaster/Sheffield to Hamilton GSM 183 16:20
1-May Manchester to Hamilton GSM 103 16:20

Departs YHM

1-May Hamilton to Glasgow GSM 132 22:55
1-May Hamilton to Gatwick GSM 152 22:55
1-May Hamilton to Stansted GSM 166 20:25
1-May Hamilton to Exeter GSM 182 20:25

Arrives in YHM

2-May Exeter to Hamilton GSM 181 16:20
2-May Glasglow to Hamilton GSM 131 20:40
2-May Gatwick to Hamilton GSM 151 21:40
2-May Stansted to Hamilton GSM 165 16:20

Departs YHM

2-May Hamilton to Birmingham GSM 172 20:35
2-May Hamilton to Manchester GSM 104 20:35
2-May Hamilton to Shannon GSM 852 22:00
2-May Hamilton to Dublin GSM 842 22:00

[Hammer Town]

That first arrival is already on ther online FIDS from the airport website, it looks kinda cool.

[SteelTown]

It's a tea party on the tarmac with first U.K. flight arrival

By John Burman
The Hamilton Spectator
(May 1, 2007)

The British are coming on the first transatlantic scheduled flight to land in Hamilton in almost 20 years.

flyglobespan.com, Britain's fastest growing airline, begins service connecting Hamilton to 13 British destinations today.

The first load of passengers -- from Doncaster/Sheffield airport -- lands in Hamilton at 4:20 p.m. Two flights to Britain will depart this evening.

Stephen Elmy, Canadian manager for the Edinburgh-based carrier, says all three inaugural flights are full.

flyglobespan flies from Britain to various locations in Europe.

Hamilton airport plans a "fire truck welcome," spraying water jets over the top of the first plane.

[SteelTown]

Local air service to U.K. takes off

By John Burman
The Hamilton Spectator
(May 1, 2007)

John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport takes a huge step across the Atlantic today.

flyglobespan.com, the internet-based discount airline voted Airline of the Year by the Scottish BAA in 2005, will inaugurate its three times a day service to 13 British destinations today.

The thrice daily service -- which offers economy flights as low as $99 one way not including taxes -- will be offered from May to October using Boeing 757s and similar planes.

Stephen Elmy, flyglobespan's Canadian manager, says the airline "will have a winter schedule, certainly to the major cities" but it is liable to be only one or two flights a day.

It's been nearly 20 years since the airport handled jets bound for Britain, a service lost when Nationair closed down operations here in August 1989.

Richard Koroscil, president of TradePort International which operates the airport, says Hamilton worked quietly over 18 months to land the new carrier.

Koroscil and Elmy say Hamilton's major advantage is cost.

Landing fees at Pearson International in Toronto can be $10,000 depending on the plane. Hamilton's are about $4,000.

"It costs one third to land a big plane in Hamilton, what it costs in Toronto," says Elmy.

Then there's the taxes. Add them up and taxes in Hamilton work out to about $130 less per seat.

And every dime counts. Elmy and analysts say there is something of a fare war going on over the Atlantic this summer as Airtransat, Zoom Airlines and flyglobespan duke it out.

"I've seen some fares one way out of Toronto for $74," says Elmy.

flyglobespan offers a cheap, economy seat with less luggage allowance for $99. The airline offers more expensive premium and business class seats.

Hamilton airport plans a welcome tea party for flyglobespan featuring plenty of food, the pipes and drums of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders of Canada, lots of sun and dignitaries on the tarmac from 2 to 4 p.m.

[SteelTown]

So I guess Flyglobespan will indeed stay with YHM all year around now that it plans a winter schedule.

[SteelTown]

This is so cool....

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a382/hammer396/flights.jpg

[Hammer Town]

Steeltown
I saw that last night and get pretty excited.

They have today departures up on the Departure screen.

Pretty good stuff.

[LikeHamilton]

First flight is on it's way!

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/6752/gsm103bg4.gif
Airline Flyglobespan
Flight Number 103
Departure City (Airport) Manchester, England, Great Britain (EGCC)
Departure Time 05/01/2007 02:23 PM
Arrival City (Airport) Hamilton, ON, Canada (YHM)
Arrival Time 05/01/2007 03:54 PM
Remaining Flight Time 04:36
Aircraft Type Boeing 757-200
Current Altitude 0 feet
Current Groundspeed 556 mph
Flight Status In Flight

[SteelTown]

Oh cool it's in air! Near Iceland.

Make sure you take plenty of pictures!! I hope all of this will lead to an airport terminal expansion in the near future.

[SteelTown]

Is the International terminal complete? Did they manage to finish building the new section of the terminal before flyglobespan arrival?

[Hammer Town]

ok guys I have to telly ou about today however i odn't have the time right now. I will post asap.

[LikeHamilton]

flyglobespan aircraft at Hamilton International Airport (YHM)
http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/5923/img2984tl5.jpg

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/1592/img2971ac6.jpg

Fire Trucks ready for the welcoming.

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/1801/img2979ig7.jpg

The new Hi Shuttle at the airport.

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/8053/img2999mg4.jpg

flyglobespan checkin counters.

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/6316/img3002sj1.jpg

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/884/img3003an6.jpg

The new Ground Transportation Services desk. It opened today.

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/9291/img3005ig6.jpg

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/681/img2969nd5.jpg

:D

[SteelTown]

Flyglobespan lands at YHM
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a382/hammer396/flyglobe.jpg

[Hammer Town]

Ok so Iw as at the press confrence nothing terribly exciting happened there jus tyour typical media event where Governtmet officials and ceo give speeches

However i get to have a terminal tour. this was probably the best part. For anyone tha thas flown international through YHM they have probably to been overly impresses with the International Arrivals area. well. they are really moving forward with the construction of this area. They havn't been able to get it finich yet bt its coming.

Right now you have to go through customes etc they kinda of go outside and then go into the main terminal to do anything else ie Rent a car grab a coffee etc. Basically tou have to go around the Customs office. Well when essicially is happening it the customs office is moving down towards the end of the new building they have constructed and that area where the customs office is now will be opened up and passengers will come out of baggage claim through thee right into the main concourse. additionally they will be doing quite a bit of cosmetic work inside the arrival area for international flights. They also plan to install shifting baggage belts so one of he domestic belts can swing from either area domestic of international.

Now incase anyone is wondering what is happening with any mojor terminal expansions they dont intend to do one major project all at once. Its all going to be completed in stages as is needed. The reason for this is that there is always so much uncertanty in the aviation world that they don't want to start a major project then have another airline all of a sudden have a major reduction in service like a certian unmentionable airline.

Anyway thats about the best stuff I hear that hasn't really been herd of before.

[Hammer Town]

Some of My Pictures from Yesterday


Passenger Airline Tails of YHM
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q299/ray_love737/IMG_2906.jpg

Two FlyGlobespan Aircraft on the Ramp
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q299/ray_love737/IMG_2903.jpg

One FlyGlobespan Aircraft on the Ramp and a second one being moved over to prepare for flight to Glasgow Scotland
http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q299/ray_love737/IMG_2897.jpg

[SteelTown]

I saw the Robert Q Airbus today! They must be doing really well since I saw it twice along Queen St.

[SteelTown]

Hamilton International Airport welcomes flyglobespan

On Tuesday 1 May, 2007 John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport hosted a gathering of dignitaries, guests and representatives of the media to celebrate the arrival of the first flyglobespan flight into the airport this season. The event took place at the Airport and the adjoining Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, in keeping with the theme of the event.

Attendees included the Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, the Hon. Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Tourism, Michael Upton, Deputy Consul-General, British Consulate-General Toronto, Fred Eisenberger, Mayor of Hamilton and Alex Heron, VP Canada flyglobespan. The flyglobespan plane was greeted by the Hamilton Airport Fire Department and the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders (LP). Guests enjoyed a traditional British High Tea and tea tasting – all to the accompaniment of Highland Dancing.

Flyglobespan has become one of the largest and most popular airlines in the UK. Its first flights herald the arrival in Canada of one of the most successful examples of the low cost airline model that has opened up the skies over Europe in recent years.

The Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities announced in November of last year, a new International air policy, the Blue Sky policy. “Our Blue Sky policy aims to give Canadians more choice and more opportunities to fly to the places they want to go,” said Minister Cannon. “It will allow more airlines like flyglobespan to establish new services, it will create more opportunities for Canadian carriers to expand internationally and it will enable airports, such as the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, to market themselves around the globe with greater freedom”.

Hamilton International Airport (hi) has been carefully chosen over Toronto Pearson as flyglobespan’s Canadian base in Ontario. “We are very proud to be chosen by flyglobespan, as this validates the ease of use and time savings advantage that hi offers compared to Toronto Pearson,” said Richard Koroscil, President and CEO, John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. “We’re offering more destinations and services than ever before and we’re extremely pleased to have flyglobespan as our newest partner.”

The benefits of small convenient regional airports, as opposed to congested big city alternatives, were also highlighted by Stephen Elmy, Regional Manager - North America for flyglobespan. “Regional airports help keep costs down and it’s quick and easy for travelers to arrive closer to their actual destination.” He added, “Flyglobespan may be new to Canada, but we’re well-known in the UK. We fly from there to over 20 European destinations and have now added destinations in the US and South Africa to our network. Once Canadians arrive in the UK they have the potential to explore not just the UK, but Europe as well. In fact London Stansted is the home of the $10 ticket to Europe.”

Michael Upton, Deputy Consul-General, British Consulate-General Toronto was amongst the welcoming party for the new flights. He emphasized the convenience of the regional airport destinations in the UK. "Flyglobespan's network helps passengers to reach their destination directly in the UK. It will greatly benefit tourists seeking to cover several areas of the country, because Globespan's flexibility allows them to fly into one airport and out of another. Moreover, the increased options of regional airport links, and low fares will encourage even more visits by friends, family, and also make new business connections". Upton went on to highlight the target of welcoming one million visitors to the UK from Canada during the next few years.

The Hon. Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Tourism, who was also in attendance, had his eyes firmly set on the passengers arriving in the other direction. “Ontario hosts more than 415,000 visitors from the UK each year making this our largest overseas market,” said Minister of Tourism Jim Bradley. “This is a great opportunity for us to expand and develop our regional tourism market in this area.”

[SteelTown]

Pickering can go ahead with its new airport
Kevin Werner, Mountain
(May 4, 2007)

The federal Transportation Minister says growth patterns don't indicate holding back constructing the Pickering airport for the benefit of the Hamilton International Airport.

Lawrence Cannon refused to say this week during the launch of Hamilton International Airport's new airline flyglobespan at the Wartime Heritage Museum, the Conservative government will curtail the development of a new airport in Pickering.

"The studies have not indicated" that future economic and democratic growth is concentrating in the Golden Horseshoe and around the Hamilton area, he told reporters.

"(The Pickering option) is still there down the road," he said. "What we want to be able to do until we get there is to continue to develop and promote our policies and those polices obviously have positive steps and consequences."

He said once the demographic and economic studies "come to full fruition we will make the appropriate decision when the time comes."

For the last three years Hamilton officials and Hamilton International Airport representatives have been urging the federal government to quash the Pickering airport development and put more resources into the Hamilton Airport as the most viable secondary airport location in Southern Ontario.

They have pointed out that transportation, demographic and economic trends reveal a more viable airport in Hamilton.

The Ontario government in its "Places to Grow" document identifies Hamilton as a growth opportunity, city officials point out. It means funding will flow to develop the city's transportation options such as the airport.

Richard Koroscil, president and chief operating officer of TradePort International reiterated the airport's position that the federal government has to be made aware by the municipality that Hamilton International Airport is the most economically viable location compared to Pearson International Airport or to Pickering.

[SteelTown]

flyglobespan takes off with flights to the United Kingdom
Kevin Werner, Ancaster News
(May 4, 2007)

Even before one of their 757s had even touched down at Hamilton International Airport, flyglobespan airlines officials were hailing their UK flights from the city a commercial boon.

"It's already a success," said Stephen Elmy, regional manager for flyglobespan earlier this week during the airline's launch party at the Hamilton Warplane Heritage Museum complete with bagpipes and highland dancers.

"It's been astounding," he added. "It's been beyond our wildest imagination. We're very, very pleased with the response."

Mr. Elmy said, as Hamilton Airport officials and guests enjoyed tea and crumpets during an afternoon news conference this week, airline officials are preparing to announced in a few weeks extending its service throughout the winter.

"And then we will come back full bore, probably in a bigger way come next April, May (2008)," he said.

The low-cost, web-based airline, which was established in 2002 in Europe, is providing three flights per day from the Hamilton Airport between May and October. The first two flights on its 757 planes, which carry about 189 passengers, May 1 were already filled, and Mr. Elmy said he expects all flights to be booked by the summer. Flyglobespan is flying to 13 destinations including London, Manchester, Glasgow, Dublin, Ireland, Edinburgh, Scotland, Birmingham and Liverpool. The lowest cost for a flight is $99, one way economy, with seats also selling for $129 and $399 business class, also one-way.

Mr. Elmy dismissed any possibility flyglobespan will end up like other airlines which have a successful launch in Hamilton, then a few years later leave the city.

Westjet, and Jetsgo, either ended their flights after high expectations, or in the case of Westjet moved to Pearson International in Toronto. Flyglobespan, based out of Edinburgh, left Pearson and established Hamilton as its eastern hub because of the low cost, easier transportation access and convenience for customers.

"I expect to be standing here two to three years from now talking to you about our continued success," said Mr. Elmy.

Flyglobespan is not a new company, officials say. It has been in the flight business for 20 years and recently has been associated with Air Transat. The company also flies to 20 destinations from the UK.

Richard Koroscil, president and chief executive officer of Hamilton International Airport, said other airlines are keeping a close eye on flyglobespan's operations in Hamilton.

"There has been a reluctance (among other airlines) to come this way," he said. "Now that flyglobespan is here there are a lot of people kind of wondering, looking at the cost advantage flyglobespan will have over them."

[SteelTown]

So when can we expect Hamilton Airport to face a major airport terminal expansion?

[raisethehammer]

we can expect it to go out of business if Pickering goes ahead.

[SteelTown]

If they ever do allow a Pickering Airport a) it'll probably take 20 years to pass the whole process and b) bankrupt the GTAA

[Hammer Town]

Pickering can go ahead with its new airport
Kevin Werner, Mountain

(May 4, 2007)
The federal Transportation Minister says growth patterns don't indicate holding back constructing the Pickering airport for the benefit of the Hamilton International Airport.

Lawrence Cannon refused to say this week during the launch of Hamilton International Airport's new airline flyglobespan at the Wartime Heritage Museum, the Conservative government will curtail the development of a new airport in Pickering.

"The studies have not indicated" that future economic and democratic growth is concentrating in the Golden Horseshoe and around the Hamilton area, he told reporters.

"(The Pickering option) is still there down the road," he said. "What we want to be able to do until we get there is to continue to develop and promote our policies and those polices obviously have positive steps and consequences."

He said once the demographic and economic studies "come to full fruition we will make the appropriate decision when the time comes."

For the last three years Hamilton officials and Hamilton International Airport representatives have been urging the federal government to quash the Pickering airport development and put more resources into the Hamilton Airport as the most viable secondary airport location in Southern Ontario.

They have pointed out that transportation, demographic and economic trends reveal a more viable airport in Hamilton.

The Ontario government in its "Places to Grow" document identifies Hamilton as a growth opportunity, city officials point out. It means funding will flow to develop the city's transportation options such as the airport.

Richard Koroscil, president and chief operating officer of TradePort International reiterated the airport's position that the federal government has to be made aware by the municipality that Hamilton International Airport is the most economically viable location compared to Pearson International Airport or to Pickering.






I dont this the pickering plan is viable at all unless they close Pearson which isn't going to happen. I see Pickering as another Mirabel. If they ever do build pickering it will be for far down the road that YHM should be established even more then it already is becoming.

As far as Terminal expasion at YHM I happened to be at the Press Confrence for FlyGlobespan and was actually able to ask Richard Koroscil a few questions as well as get a tour with a AIrport official of the terminal.

So Mr Koroscil mostly said its a build it as they come sort of this becuase they do want to announce a big terminal plan then have an airlines pull out or something similar Tehy look to ahve the Runway 24-06 and flight kitch as well as the fuel farm in place by 2012-2015

Well i was on the terminal tour it was just me so i kind of got the royal treatment. I was anything the public would see with out being a passenger except I go to go into the International arrivals area it just a very basic structure however he explained to me what it will look like once the finish the construction they are doing in there now they also had an artist rendition on the wall that looked quiet nice.

After they He went on to say that Hey plan to extand the departure lounge out more towards the ramp then enlarge the arrivals area for domestic and international. once they have done they will start to build up also in differant phases.

I think I have said all I can remember.

[fastcarsfreedom]

Exactly why raisethehammer, do you think YHM will go out of business if Pickering Airport is built? This time I want you to seriously quantify it--I really respect much of what you have to say, but the truth is, on a group of issues--the airport included--you are consistently negative. You have your own website and the main Hamilton development blog nearly to yourself and to those who are like-minded--this airport thread is about the positive growth and development of YHM--with the pervasiveness of attitudes like yours it's frankly amazing the airport has come so far, so fast.

When you prove to me that the majority of passenger traffic at YHM is coming from the east side of Toronto--that is driving PAST YYZ to come here, then I will agree that Pickering will hurt YHM. Moreover, I will also be alarmed if the entire population of YHM's catchment area up and moves eastward--until such time I have faith that the airport will CONTINUE to succeed. Just two weeks ago our local paper The Windsor Star, ran a front page article on the boom in growth at YHM, in past months The Buffalo News has run a similar story. Given the wide array of flights and destinations available at YYZ, I'd frankly like to see someone prove to me what the hell will make Pickering so damn viable. From a passenger standpoint, Toronto City Centre is only marginal, and past attempts at running commuter service from Buttonville have failed.

[raisethehammer]

Exactly why raisethehammer, do you think YHM will go out of business if Pickering Airport is built? This time I want you to seriously quantify it--I really respect much of what you have to say, but the truth is, on a group of issues--the airport included--you are consistently negative. You have your own website and the main Hamilton development blog nearly to yourself and to those who are like-minded--this airport thread is about the positive growth and development of YHM--with the pervasiveness of attitudes like yours it's frankly amazing the airport has come so far, so fast.

When you prove to me that the majority of passenger traffic at YHM is coming from the east side of Toronto--that is driving PAST YYZ to come here, then I will agree that Pickering will hurt YHM. Moreover, I will also be alarmed if the entire population of YHM's catchment area up and moves eastward--until such time I have faith that the airport will CONTINUE to succeed. Just two weeks ago our local paper The Windsor Star, ran a front page article on the boom in growth at YHM, in past months The Buffalo News has run a similar story. Given the wide array of flights and destinations available at YYZ, I'd frankly like to see someone prove to me what the hell will make Pickering so damn viable. From a passenger standpoint, Toronto City Centre is only marginal, and past attempts at running commuter service from Buttonville have failed.


Why would Pickering have a negative impact here??
Go ask the folks at YHM that have been leading the fight against it for years.

[SteelTown]

Look at what I found during the forum meet.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v384/Aallen396/IMG_2195.jpg

[fastcarsfreedom]

Tradeport's main case for fighting Pickering has always been about steering more government dollars to YHM and environs, and not about a sudden shift in population eastward. Aside, given your past comments about the airport, it's amusing now to see you more or less quoting Tradeport on this issue.

[raisethehammer]

I guess I should do this myself, but since I won't, please refresh my memory as to what I've ever said about YHM that is so rotten?
i'm skeptical about whether it can hold carriers (as many people are given the history), and I'm skeptical about the fact that the GTAA and Feds are more interested in the pickering option.
I'd love to be able to do all of my flying from here instead of toronto. If I ever posted comments wishing the airport would blow up and be gone I don't remember when.

[BCTed]

I guess I should do this myself, but since I won't, please refresh my memory as to what I've ever said about YHM that is so rotten?
i'm skeptical about whether it can hold carriers (as many people are given the history), and I'm skeptical about the fact that the GTAA and Feds are more interested in the pickering option.
I'd love to be able to do all of my flying from here instead of toronto. If I ever posted comments wishing the airport would blow up and be gone I don't remember when.

I will back you up on this one, raisethehammer. I am pretty certain that you have never posted comments wishing the airport would blow up and be gone.

[raisethehammer]

lol...thanks.
i generally don't say much about the airport...the crazy aerotropolis thing was worthy of discussion, but I hope the passenger stuff at YHM grows and does fabulous.

[fastcarsfreedom]

Actually, in saying that you don't hope the airport blows up I think you've said the most positive thing you've ever said. In the past, ever small step and success has been met with skepticism, doubt, and negativity. Your response that the airport will "go out of business" if Pickering is built is typical of your responses. Ugly terminal, too small, etc, I could go on. We've had these debates before--in the past, on other forums--at the very least I'd expect you to own up to your negative attitude about the airport. If I implied that you wanted the airport to disappear, I was incorrect in doing so--I've never believed that. I do however believe from your previous posts that you hold it's future in low regard--you've made that clear.

[fastcarsfreedom]

May 11, 2006 in response to a discussion about airport terminal renovations/expansion...

that goofy little thing is what council wants to pin all our future job creation hopes on??? heaven help us.

[the dude]

aerotropolis...don't start with that! i'm not so sure that's really the topic of discussion here. anyway, it's ok to wish the airport success without supporting that particular initiative.

[fastcarsfreedom]

Given that I'm out of the loop somewhat on Aerotropolis--what was the major issue on that initiative in terms of opposition? This particular concept has been applied elsewhere with some success (Alliance Airport in Fort Worth Texas, for instance), and in my area, Wayne County (MI) is looking at an aerotroplis concept for the area immediately adjacent to Metropolitan Detroit Airport (granted, one of the busiest airports in the U.S.)--just curious--was it environmental--feeling that those lands in Glanbrook were better in pastoral use?

All acidity aside, I'm curious.

[flar]

I think the opposition to the aerotropolis is based on 1)expands the urban boundary (sprawl), 2)thus necessitating municipal servicing to new land while brownfield sites and existing serviced land sit empty 3)uses up valuable farmland, 4)"peak oil" could mean the aerotropolis never reaches its potential.

The aerotropolis land is west of the airport, around the newly built Hwy 6 bypass. This existing bypass is designed to be twinned into an expressway complete with ramps and overpasses when demand warrants.

[HAMRetrofit]

Why is Hamilton completely against creating employment areas close to its airport? This seams ridiculous most airports encourage this type of development to build a more sustainable client base. If you look into the Seaton plan it incorporates an entire planned community near the Pickering airport including employment land and green space.

I am very unclear on Hamilton's initiatives for intensification and job growth under the Places to Grow policy, which specifically indicates airports and the hinterlands surrounding them as places for future employment.

There is a big difference between urban sprawl and a comprehensive plan that outlines how the actual airport lands are going to grow in a sustainable manner. The brownfields are not a comprehensive growth strategy because their developed reuse will always be tied to port activity and will fail to address employment opportunities in new clusters.

[LikeHamilton]

I spent the weekend in London and checked out their airport. It is surrounded by all kinds of new airport development of all type. Kitchener-Waterloo Airport just recently had 10,000 acres of land rezoned for development around it. Why can we not see that here? Most of the land around Hamilton Airport is owned by developers and leased back to the farmers.

[flar]

London just upgraded Airport Rd. (now Veteran's Memorial Parkway) into a divided highway, which can be converted to a controlled access freeway someday. It's basically the same setup that Hamilton will have, a freeway spur off a major highway that leads to an airport surrounded by a vast industrial park. London already has theirs built, and even has a couple industries moved in.

The Hamilton Aerotropolis is the best chance for Hamilton to attract industry. I would like to see the brownfields redeveloped but the reality is that industry will only locate on nice fresh land beside major highways. There's not anything we can do about that. If we don't build the aerotropolis here, the industries will continue to locate in places like London. Even Brantford has two large new industrial parks along the 403 that are doing quite well.

[SteelTown]

Take a look at Pittsburgh all their industries on the riverfront are gone and now companies relocated on green space. The East Harbourfront days of being an industrial park is dying, nothing can last forever.

The biggest issue facing Hamilton is jobs and yet we sit around keep debating and debating over and over with endless supply of studies on how to attract new jobs, yet the solution is quite simple thanks to the provincial government that built that new 403 bypass to the Airport. Prime land next to the Airport and 403 just sitting all alone.

[SteelTown]

One of the first companies I could see locating at the Airport is laboratory equipment/supply companies such as VWR, Sigma, Invitrogen, Fisher, etc. Hamilton is growing into a research and medical city and so far all these supplies come from the GTA like Whitby, Oakville and Mississauga.

Most of these supplies get shipped to Hamilton Airport than to Whitby, Oakville, Mississauga and then finally back to Hamilton like McMaster.

[HAMRetrofit]

^exactly

As an outsider the answer to Hamilton's employment problems is so apparent

Jane Jacobs says it best, 'cities grow by grace of import replacement'.

'Import replacement occurs in the regions surrounding a city where goods and services are brought in, their Hinterlands.'

[Hammer Town]

We Need to get these lands serviced ASAP we needs these employment alnds and these jobs. This Peak Oil stuff is rubbish ya Oil is going up but that doesn't mean that companies are going to stop shipping items around the world via aircraft. Saying companies are going to stop using aircraft to ship goods is like says people are going to resort back to Horse and Buggie. Beside aircraft are becoming more fuel effciant all the time.

Some companies are fine with Brownfeild development but some require new space even more so beside an airport.

[LikeHamilton]

I do not understand what the problem is with the lands that need to be designated as industrial.

In Hamilton;

We should never say no to any developer who needs land because we should have it all.
We have waterfront for those people who want it for transportation or just like the look of waterfront.
We have/should have Brownfield’s for the companies who like to be in built up older areas.
We have downtown/core lands and vacant buildings for developers and companies.
We have community areas that have lands and buildings available. Who care if they go to Waterdown, Ancaster, Stoney Creek or Ottawa Street so long as they build in or move to Hamilton?
We have existing industrial parks with vacant lands and buildings already built for rent.
We need more highway land for the companies that need and want that type of land.
We need airport land for the companies that need/want/like that type of lands.

We should be in a position to never say no to any developer/company that wants to come to Hamilton. Anyone who comes to Hamilton brings jobs and construction work to Hamilton. Even if it is just minimum wage jobs, that is better that welfare and unemployment.

:???:

[the dude]

We Need to get these lands serviced ASAP we needs these employment alnds and these jobs. This Peak Oil stuff is rubbish ya Oil is going up but that doesn't mean that companies are going to stop shipping items around the world via aircraft. Saying companies are going to stop using aircraft to ship goods is like says people are going to resort back to Horse and Buggie. Beside aircraft are becoming more fuel effciant all the time.

Some companies are fine with Brownfeild development but some require new space even more so beside an airport.

you might want to bone up on the whole peak oil topic. the US reached peak oil 35+ years ago and have been fighting for it ever since. we are fast approaching the day when demand outstrips supply worldwide. i won't get into the details of what happens next but feel free to read-up on the topic. geologists know it, oil execs know it. it's time for other people to face facts, too. besides, what have we been told would be the resulting employment on these lands? warehousing? please. i'll contain my excitement for now.

[the dude]

I do not understand what the problem is with the lands that need to be designated as industrial.

In Hamilton;

We should never say no to any developer who needs land because we should have it all.
We have waterfront for those people who want it for transportation or just like the look of waterfront.
We have/should have Brownfield’s for the companies who like to be in built up older areas.
We have downtown/core lands and vacant buildings for developers and companies.
We have community areas that have lands and buildings available. Who care if they go to Waterdown, Ancaster, Stoney Creek or Ottawa Street so long as they build in or move to Hamilton?
We have existing industrial parks with vacant lands and buildings already built for rent.
We need more highway land for the companies that need and want that type of land.
We need airport land for the companies that need/want/like that type of lands.

We should be in a position to never say no to any developer/company that wants to come to Hamilton. Anyone who comes to Hamilton brings jobs and construction work to Hamilton. Even if it is just minimum wage jobs, that is better that welfare and unemployment.

:???:

unfortunately minimum wage isn't better than welfare. that's the problem.

[HAMRetrofit]

When warehouse or logistics facilities are built around the periphery of the city it initiates a large complex process of city economics. The jobs may seem irrelevant at first not creating influential economic activity. However they are connected to larger economic systems. For example if a storage warehouse is opened in the hinterlands it creates jobs for basic laborers. The functions of the warehouse are to store goods. These goods are imported from elsewhere. Overtime it becomes more economical to manufacture goods in the city, which in turn leads to more jobs in the periphery as more 'import replacers' move in. The result of this new import replacement is that jobs are created for the creative class (designers) and financial class (bankers), which typically happens in the core (downtown). These hinterlands need to be well connected to infrastructure because their primary goal is to exchange goods between the central city and other surrounding cities (this is what makes the highway 6 and 403 interchange ideal). Highways are the preferred shipping method and will be at least for the next 30 years until peak oil in Canada actually takes effect. Canada is a net oil producer and is not expected to peak in oil production until 2035 with the availability of the tar sands. Past Canada’s oil peak new energy infrastructures will be in place, which is already being planned for (this is obvious since the feds are already planning a new airport in Pickering). I am generalizing here but for a much more complete description of how the economics of cities work read Jane Jacobs 'Cities and the Wealth of Nations'. There are a few other books I could recommend but Cities and the Wealth of nations is the most fundamental.

[the dude]

that's fairly optimistic and clairvoyant but so be it. i'll never buy into aerotropolis because, knowing this city, the land will be serviced and losani will move in, put up some sh*t houses and we'll left shaking our heads...again. that's what i figure this is really all about. i also hate the idea of paving over the finest agricultural land in this country. it all seems a little backward to me.

[Hammer Town]

.

[Hammer Town]

We might as well service these lands anyway and get some money out of them because if we run out of oil we are all screwed anyway so whats the differance.

[raisethehammer]

May 11, 2006 in response to a discussion about airport terminal renovations/expansion...

that goofy little thing is what council wants to pin all our future job creation hopes on??? heaven help us.


I do recall that conversation...I also remember someone posting images of terminal buildings in London and Ottawa to which I replied I wish we would build something similar to theirs.
I also recall several others agreeing that our terminal is a joke.
If you can't even admit that the terminal building is lame then I understand more clearly why you think I'm negative.
Hop on a few flights to anywhere in the developed world and you'll have a hard time finding a terminal as pathetic as ours.
Forgive me for wishing we had something better.

[fastcarsfreedom]

Firstly, I would argue, your failure to recall a statement you made doesn't absolve you of it--though the world is filled with politicians who wish that were not the case.

Secondly, I would argue--our airport's terminal is far from pathetic. It could certainly be better, it could be larger, and there could be a wider array of service from YHM--I agree with you there. Folks who live closeby to the airport could also stop driving to Pearson when they could jst as conveniently and econmically fly from here, on the same airlines. I have discussed to the point of exhaustion that the airport was hamstrung by the Liberal government of the early 1980s who designed it to fail. In SPITE of that, it has grown, prospered and thrived. I believe there is also a hint of arrogance in your statements about seeing airports elsewhere in the developed world--I have seen, and used many--everything from the glorious piece of work in Pittsburgh, to the old Terminal 1 in Toronto when it was literally crumbling, to one in West Virigina that consisted of a USAir ticket counter in a trailer. The airport might not be as "pretty" as you'd like--but it doesn't cost you a dime as a taxpayer in Hamilton--and I bet there are a few people who fund the GTAA who think that idea sounds mighty attractive.

The airport is functional, useable and convenient. Your comments serve no purpose other than to function strictly as negativity. USING the airport is what will keep the airport growing, wishing for skylights and ficus trees won't get you anywhere.

[raisethehammer]

whew! I'm glad you cleared that up. Especially since I have no clue what a ficus tree is.
Let's call this the end of that little squabble. We both want a better terminal.
But apparently I'm not allowed to say so. Ok. I'm cool with that.

[Hammer Town]

Raisethehammer
What were you up there last?

[raisethehammer]

hmm...not sure to be honest.
I picked up my uncle last year. don't recall the month. I think it was spring.
so roughly a year ago. I didn't get through any gates though. Just the main area where anyone can go.
I fly out of there whenever possible, but my last few trips have been to Mexico, Colombia and Cuba....all from Pearson.

[fastcarsfreedom]

Okay, squabble ended.

Hopefully the list of destinations available this winter will indeed expand dramatically as Tradeport has indicated and that Globespan launches a winter program. If Tradeport can finally secure service to a big U.S. hub (ORD on United Express would be perfect)--then a big missing piece of the service pie will FINALLY be filled. When USAir de-hubbed their operation in Pittsburgh and henceforth dropped service to places like Hamilton, it was a big blow. Really, the city owes them a debt of gratitude for all the years they stuck around when no one else was there...anyway, getting back on track, a U.S. connection and a route connecting to AC's western/Asia network are on my wish list.

[LikeHamilton]

New Duty Free Facility Open for Business

Thursday, May 10, 2007 – HAMILTON -- Richard Koroscil, President and CEO of the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (hi), is pleased to announce that Hamilton International Duty Free is now open for business.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be offering our passengers full duty free service, for the first time in the history of Hamilton International Airport,” said Koroscil. “We’re offering more destinations and services than ever before and this is a long awaited arrival for the airport.”

Hamilton International Duty Free officially opened its doors to passengers in the newly renovated departure lounge at hi. The facility features hundreds of different items including product lines traditionally only available at exclusive stores and boutiques. Hamilton International Duty Free promises a more enjoyable shopping experience than ever with incredible buys on merchandise for women, men, and children. The store offers fragrances and cosmetics in brands including, but not limited to, Chanel, Lancôme, Clinique, Estee Lauder and Elizabeth Arden. Also available, is a selection of Swarovski jewelry and fashion watches. Hamilton International Duty Free offers top-shelf liquors and some of Ontario’s best wines and icewines. Hamilton International Duty Free offers truly competitive pricing, accepts all major credit cards and is open to service all international and transborder flights.

Hamilton International Duty Free’s philosophy is to make a positive impression on every visitor to Canada, “We take our ambassadorial responsibilities very seriously,” said Chuck Loewen, the store’s general manager. “We want to leave everyone who stops here on their way home with a good last and lasting impression of Canada.”

Hamilton International Duty Free is owned and operated by North America’s largest land border Duty Free store, The Peace Bridge Duty Free. The Peace Bridge Duty Free has been operating since 1986 and recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. You can visit them online at www.dutyfree.ca.

~ fly hamilton, fly easy ~

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/5186/yhmdutyfreehr3.jpg

[SteelTown]

Is that the actualy Duty Free we see in the picture or is it bigger?

None the less it's great news.

[LikeHamilton]

Sunquest Vacations reservation system is showing some of next winters packages from Hamilton. They are showing flights and packages to Punta Cana (PUJ) in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay (MBJ), Jamaica. Jamaica is a new destination from Hamilton. Both will be on Friday’s starting December 21st using Skyservice aircraft.

:yes:

[Hammer Town]

Sunquest Vacations reservation system is showing some of next winters packages from Hamilton. They are showing flights and packages to Punta Cana (PUJ) in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay (MBJ), Jamaica. Jamaica is a new destination from Hamilton. Both will be on Friday’s starting December 21st using Skyservice aircraft.

:yes:


This is Nice to see a new Destination in the caribbean again

Its a llit distraught with Flyglobespan though. They are have some On Time Performace issue big time.

[Hammer Town]

Hey Likehamilton
Where did you see this information?

[LikeHamilton]

Hey Likehamilton
Where did you see this information?

The Galileo Airline Reservation System (competitor of Sabre) that travel agents use. This system is not available to the public. I have connection where I can access it. This is a part of the system called Galileo Vacations. You put in the city that you wish to depart from and then where and the date and it will tell you everything that is available, packages and charter flights. You can then access the tour operator you choose directly from the system to do the booking. They include 16 of Canada’s largest tour operators.
· AIR CANADA VACATIONS (VAC)
· ALBATOURS (ALB)
· CONQUEST VACATIONS (CON)
· FUN SUN VACATIONS (FUN)
· NOLITOURS (NOL)
· RED SEAL / SUNWING (SWG)
· SIGNATURE / ROYAL (SGN)
· SIGNATURE / SUNFLIGHT (SGN)
· SUNQUEST VACATIONS (SQV)
· SUNQUEST WEST (SQV)
· THE HOLIDAY NETWORK (THN)
· TOURS MONT ROYAL (TMR)
· TRANSAT HOLIDAYS (VAT)
· VACANCES SUNQUEST (TMA)
· VACANCES TRANSAT (VAT)
· VARAPLAYA (VAR)

[fastcarsfreedom]

Globespan is having some issues--some are apparently related to Customs clearance at some of the small facilities they use in the U.K. and others are related to them being stretched fairly thin on the aircraft side of the operation. Some of this may be the result of the fact that Globespan is basically a low-fare/low-cost operator in Continental Europe--and they have aircraft utilization that is fairly high as a result--trying to utilize aircraft long haul, with tight turns can be tricky, as has been seen with them since they started. I check IFIDS daily, they had a few disastrous days, but also some days where they are at least in the ballpark in terms of OTP...today for instance looks fairly good--off by 20 minutes on a trans-Atlantic flight isnt all that bad...hopefully they keep improving.

[Hammer Town]

Beleive it or not The Globespan Flight from Manchester is actually early today. They have been improving greatly the past week or so with OTP. This is great news.

[LikeHamilton]

Looks like flyglobespan is staying the winter in Hamilton. They now have in their system and I have received an email notice for weekly service to Hamilton to Manchester on Mondays / Manchester to Hamilton on Sundays and to Hamilton to Hamilton to Glasgow on Mondays / Glasgow to Hamilton on Sundays. I am sure there will be more destinations to come.

And their on time performance has been doing better. They have some fights early in the last week and the late flights have been less than an hour late. Air Canada Jazz from Montreal and Ottawa is later than that on some days.
:D

[Hammer Town]

Hey likehamilton are you RickYHM on airliners.net?

Anyway good news on the GSM flights for the winter.

[SteelTown]

Found the Duty Free logo

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b2/Bonaducci1/duty.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b2/Bonaducci1/duty1.jpg

[SteelTown]

Plane makes emergency landing at Hamilton airport

The afflicted jet sits safely on the ground this morning at Hamilton's airport.

Passengers reported seeing flames shooting out the engine of their plane moments before it made an emergency landing at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.

A flyglobespan plane from Britain declared an emergency shortly before 11 p.m. Thursday just after taking off from the airport with more than 170 passengers aboard bound.

Staff Sergeant Bernie Mueller said the crew reported the Boeing 757 had mechanical problems and ``they had some concerns about how safe it was going to be to land.''

Hamilton police and firefighters sprang into action. Police officers set up perimeters at the intersections around the airport in the event the plane crashed and firefighters stood by. Fortunately, the plane landed at about five minutes after 11 p.m. and it did not have any problems. ``We're clearing off and it's all over,'' said Mueller.

He said the crew was talking about dumping the plane's fuel, but he said the emergency only lasted 10 minutes and that did not appear to give the crew enough time. flyglobespan, an Edinburgh-based carrier, began flying between the British Isles and Hamilton May 4.

[DC83]

Plane makes emergency landing at Hamilton airport

The afflicted jet sits safely on the ground this morning at Hamilton's airport.

Passengers reported seeing flames shooting out the engine of their plane moments before it made an emergency landing at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.

A flyglobespan plane from Britain declared an emergency shortly before 11 p.m. Thursday just after taking off from the airport with more than 170 passengers aboard bound.

Staff Sergeant Bernie Mueller said the crew reported the Boeing 757 had mechanical problems and ``they had some concerns about how safe it was going to be to land.''

Hamilton police and firefighters sprang into action. Police officers set up perimeters at the intersections around the airport in the event the plane crashed and firefighters stood by. Fortunately, the plane landed at about five minutes after 11 p.m. and it did not have any problems. ``We're clearing off and it's all over,'' said Mueller.

He said the crew was talking about dumping the plane's fuel, but he said the emergency only lasted 10 minutes and that did not appear to give the crew enough time. flyglobespan, an Edinburgh-based carrier, began flying between the British Isles and Hamilton May 4.

Anyone else think the GTAA is trying to sabotage HI!? Or is it just riddled with the worst luck in the history of the word "luck"???

and here's a shocker, the news was all over CH -- the emergency landing couldn't have come at a worst time for the struggling airline which celebrates it's 1 month anniversery in Hamilton...

[LikeHamilton]

Anyone else think the GTAA is trying to sabotage HI!? Or is it just riddled with the worst luck in the history of the word "luck"???

and here's a shocker, the news was all over CH -- the emergency landing couldn't have come at a worst time for the struggling airline which celebrates it's 1 month anniversery in Hamilton...

Do not worry. Flyglobespan is announcing more winter destinations for Hamilton and will be announcing flights and putting on sale next summer from Hamilton soon.
:fingerscrossed:

[SteelTown]

Is Globespan now running at full summer schedule? During May Globespan had 2 arrivals and 2 departures now it looks like 4 out and 4 in, doubled.

[Hammer Town]

I don't think its going to increase until July 1st and only to 3 . It may have been showing 4 because of the incident last week with the Engine problem caused a back log.

[SteelTown]

FlyGlobespan Status (Item 4.2)

Richard Koroscil reported that FlyGlobespan started operating out of the Airport on May 1, and has been operating at 90%+ load factors. The operations is at a point where Globespan has indicated that it will run year round, with a reduced schedule during the off season, and building back up in the marketplace next summer. Mr. Koroscil acknowledged that there have been some operational issues in terms of on-time performance, and they are working through those issues.

[markbarbera]

:previous:
Minutes from what meeting?

[SteelTown]

Airport Implementation Task Force Report 07-003

[markbarbera]

Airport Implementation Task Force Report 07-003

Thanks!

[hamiltonguy]

I saw nothing in that article to indicate that Pickering is a for sure thing other than the headlines. The quote was "'Make the appropriate decision when the time comes." Pickering Airport might be built but at least for the first stages (I believe 2020 or so is when they start) it will be general aviation in order that Toronto Island, Buttonville, Markham (located on part of the airport grounds) and Oshawa Airports, which are overcrowded, can be closed. Maybe 10 15 year s after that there Might be cargo and in another 10 15 years passengers. By then Hamilton will be a much bigger hub, Pearson overfull and Pickering will be welcome relief.


This all of course relies that the cost of flying won't skyrocket.

[Hammer Town]

Hey Globespan is doing great out of YHM. and things are possibly going to get better I saw on anothere web fourm that they are going to have Zoom Airlines doing some flights from YHM starting wednesday.

[markbarbera]

Hey Globespan is doing great out of YHM. and things are possibly going to get better I saw on anothere web fourm that they are going to have Zoom Airlines doing some flights from YHM starting wednesday.

There was some rumour of Zoom taking over some of the overses flights that flyglobespan operates, but those have turned out to be incorrect. Zoom will not be operating out of YHM and flyglobespan continues as per its operating schedule.

[LikeHamilton]

Winter charter destinations to the south out of Hamilton in the reservations system now stands at 5.
They are:

Cancun
Mayan Riviera
Jamaica (new for 2007/08)
Punta Cana
St Martin (new for 2007/08)

[SteelTown]

Hotelier sets sights on Iranian tourists
By Eric McGuinness

Hotelier Oscar Kichi is hiring a full-time staffer to bring Iranian tourists to southern Ontario through John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.

Kichi says there are an estimated 200,000 Iranian emigrès in Toronto and a growing number in Hamilton, but no direct flights from Iran to Canada. Visitors have to make connections in European airports to reach Toronto.

While a few companies offer package tours to Toronto, the Hamilton businessman sees a “huge, huge market” that is underserved and says, “We’re hoping to capture some of that market.”

Kichi said Iranian demand is so high that “you can’t get a flight out of Tehran (to Canada) until September or so.”

His company, Sahar’s Hospitality, operates the downtown Plaza Hotel and developed the Marriott Courtyard on the Mountain.

Kichi envisions biweekly direct flights with Hamilton-based tours to Toronto, Niagara Falls and other attractions.

“We’ve tested the market already. We ran an ad on an Iranian satellite TV broadcast out of Los Angeles and “we were just bombarded with telephone calls (from Iran). We had 10,000 calls in two days or so.”

Although the Islamic Iranian government is accused of supporting terrorist bombers who are killing and injuring Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan, Kichi believes average citizens would feel welcome here, more so than in the U.S.

“The Iranian people have never been terrorists, they never would be. There are one of the most educated people in the Middle East and they love to travel. They love Canada, with its diverse weather and geography.

David Adames, executive director of Tourism Hamilton, who learned of Kichi’s initiative from The Spectator today, called it “an absolutely intriguing” idea and said he would get in touch immediately “to see how we can support it.”

He said, “When Oscar was on the tourism board, he talked about the importance of new multicultural markets, especially for a city situated so close to Toronto.”

[Coldrsx]

how was hamilton's june for comparison?

Edmonton's june 2007

dom-434,105 up 20.2%
trans-54,525 up 15.2%
intl 17,487 up 182.9%
------------------------
total 506,117 up 21.7%

[SteelTown]

I don't have any stats perhaps LikeHamilton does but it sure would be interesting to see the increase in the international area. Probably going to be the biggest increase in Canada. Went from zero international flights to having Canada's most number of transatlantic fights.

[LikeHamilton]

Just received this from the Hamilton International Airport's electronic newsletter.

FLYGLOBESPAN
Flyglobespan’s winter schedule takes effect on November 1, 2007

Weekly flights will operate from Hamilton International to Manchester and Glasgow on Mondays throughout the winter. Morning departures.

Weekly flights will operate from Glasgow and Manchester to Hamilton International on Sundays throughout the winter. Morning departures.

Starting November 1, flyglobespan will be operating a two class service. The new Economy class will include:

Generous seat pitch
25 kg. Luggage allowance
Full meal service
Complimentary drinks
In-flight entertainment
Seat selection – Book early and select standard seat at no charge

FLYGLOBESPAN
Flyglobespan is now operating three flights per day out of Hamilton to 13 destinations in the U.K. and Ireland. There are a limited number of seats available this summer at comparable rates to other airlines. Book through your travel agent or at
www.flyglobespan.ca
http://img485.imageshack.us/img485/4494/flyglobespanks3.jpg

John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport

www.flyhi.ca
http://img485.imageshack.us/img485/1473/hihp0.png

[LikeHamilton]

I was at Hamilton Airport last Tuesday, and I forgot my camera again and it was packed. I was there in the late afternoon into the evening and I do not think they could have taken any more passengers through there.

All three FlyGlobespan flights arrived early and the departing ones where on time and all where full. All of the Air Canada’s Jazz and Westjet flights where on time and full. There where extra flights that day. VIA Rail had a derailment on the Trans Canada line and had charter two WestJet flights to Winnipeg to move the passenger to meet up with the train. The passengers where bussed into Hamilton Airport and both flights where full. There was also a charter with a Mexicana B737 to Mexico City that was also full. They have a charter on Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and two on Sunday. The passengers either fly into Hamilton and take the bus tour to Quebec City or fly into Quebec City and bus tour it to Hamilton and fly out of here.

The place was crawling with passengers, people dropping off and picking up passengers, airport staff etc. The parking lot and out front of the terminal was alive, with car, taxis, limos and a constant stream of busses and people. This a welcome change from a number of years ago when there where less 75 people a day going through the airport. I figured there was at least 3200 passengers going through the terminal over a few hour period. At this rate, they will have to start some kind of expansion soon!

[raisethehammer]

you're right LikeHamilton. The biggest complaint I'm now hearing about the airport is the small size.
People are getting frustrated waiting in long lines, being crammed in like sardines etc....
the airport should address this immediately since their biggest selling point is 'hassle-free' compared with Toronto.
At some point they'll have to put up a nice, modern terminal with expansion capabilities instead of these sheds they're using.

[HAMRetrofit]

Build a Terminal. ASAP!

[markbarbera]

The thing is, expansion has to be kept at a slow pace so as to prevent landing fees from skyrocketing. flyglobespan was attracted to Hamilton mainly due to the cheap landing fees compared to Pearson. The cost of airport expansion is always passed on to the airlines via landing fee increases, and to passengfers via airport improvement surcharges. Increases in these charges will make the airport less attractive to low cost airlines and their passengers.

The current terminal design accommodates about 15 flights a day. I believe this meets current flight levels. Of course, this is also the heavy summer travel time. Come October, flyglobespan is drastically reducing its overseas flights to just two weekly (as opposed to its current 15 weekly flights), which is a significant drop in overall traffic for this airport. Moreover, flyglobespan's expansion into long-haul flights has gone anything but smoothly this summer, so they may be a little less ambitious with next year's summer schedule.

YHM did have terminall expansion plans all drawn up a few years back, which called for two phases of terminal expansion. The first phase was to see a seven-gate rampway built (wow, imagine boarding a plane via a rampway in Hamilton!). However, these were drawn up in the heady days of 2003 when WestJet was still using Hamilton as its eastern hub. Phase one was supposed to begin in 2005, with a target completion date of 2009. Phase two, 12 additional gates, was scheduled to take place between 2010 and 2014, dependant on additional lands being acquired for displaced hangars. The plans are now two years behind schedule (typical for Hamilton projects), and, when they do start, will most likely be less ambitious in scope and timing. Should anyone know of, or have a copy of the revised expansion plans, it would be interesting to see them.

[DC83]

Should anyone know of, or have a copy of the revised expansion plans, it would be interesting to see them.

I'm pretty sure if they surfaced, the GTAA would smyte anyone who's eyes came across the documents! Lightning Bolts, Boiles, The Plague... the whole deal!

[SteelTown]

Wait until the winter once flyglobespan comes out with plans for the summer '08 schedule. If it's the same then we'll probably see improvements made to the terminal.

[markbarbera]

And we need to see if other airlines watching YHM in the wings come on board. I have heard rumours about other low cost airlines like Zoom, Southwest, even Ryanair watching how flyglobespan does this summer out of Hamilton. I'd love to see more destinations from YHM, and most likely it'll be the low cost airlines offering them. And not just overseas flights, I'd love to see a reasonably-priced flight out west from here. NYC would be another great destination.

[SteelTown]

Obviously if YHM was to make some improvements it would be mostly on the international side. They really need to get things going and make the airport run smoother, yea it wasn't the airport fault but YHM could have help with a kitchen.

I remember a few years ago JetBlue looked at YHM. That would be a dream come true.

[neilson]

Obviously if YHM was to make some improvements it would be mostly on the international side. They really need to get things going and make the airport run smoother, yea it wasn't the airport fault but YHM could have help with a kitchen.

I remember a few years ago JetBlue looked at YHM. That would be a dream come true.
jetBlue, Southwest, AirTran, the American Cheap 3.

[Hammer Town]

http://www.flyhi.ca/pdf/amp_update.pdf

Some pretty good stuff in here if it ever comes to reality.

[markbarbera]

flyglobespan started issuing its Summer 2008 schedule today. No sign of YHM flights, but it is early in the game.

[Hammer Town]

I was talking withg a couple from England who were going to a town up near Barrys Bay (past Toronto) and flew out of YHM. They are spending there last 2 days at the Marriot on Upper James and come into my work today and spend about $350 so it shows you in a small but practical way that the airport will add $$$ into out city. Kinda neat so i thought I would pass it along.

[LikeHamilton]

I was at Hamilton International Airport today (14 August) and I noticed a few new things. First there was an article in the “Hamilton Spectator” on August 10th titled “Fifty defibrillators donated” (AED’s). The opening line of the story was “There will be no defibrillator at Hamilton airport.” It did not go on to say why but here is a picture of one of the AED’s hanging at Hamilton International. I know I have seen them there in the passed, so I know they are not new. I guess they could not what for the city to supply them.

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/7450/img3586pc2.jpg

They have not started on the new entrance to the new international arrivals area. I believe they are waiting for the summer rush to end and do it in the lull before the winter charter season starts.

Hamilton International now has a currency exchange both. It opened today and is open from 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Business was brisk.

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/9905/img3587ff7.jpg

They now have video signs over the baggage carousels announcing what flights are being served on what carousel.

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/6971/img3594sg9.jpg

And last. They are bulldozing the large property on the corner of Airport Road and the East Cargo Road (north east). They’re where 4 or 5 large building there and they are even removing all of the trees as if they are getting it ready for a development. This would be across from (east of) the Warplane Heritage Museum and at the entrance to the road to the UPS building and the WestJet and CargoJet Hangers. Anyone hear anything that might be going in there?

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/3360/img3595bm7.jpg

:)

[LikeHamilton]

Also.... all of Flyglobespans flights where early today.

[GreatTallNorth2]

I thought Flyglobespan was going to be cheaper to fly to the UK, but Zoom and Transat out of T.O. is much cheaper even with the taxes.

[markbarbera]

GreatTallNorth2, I found flyglobespan to be much cheaper than Zoom. I am flying out to Manchester on October 24th, returning via Glasgow on Nov 4. I got my ticket from flyglobespan for $495. Zoom would have been $590 for the same flights. Plus, I don't have to deal with the hassle of getting into Pearson and dealing with those crowds.

As far as Air Transat goes, they don't fly europe past October so I couldn't compare prices. Even if they did, I had such a bad experience with them several years back I am not likely to ever fly them again.

[LikeHamilton]

I thought Flyglobespan was going to be cheaper to fly to the UK, but Zoom and Transat out of T.O. is much cheaper even with the taxes.

Flyglobespan flights out of Hamilton are more expensive right now for the fall because they are getting close to being sold out. There are a lot of seats out of Toronto so it is cheaper. When you look at a price out of Toronto you have to add more soft costs such as transportation to and from Toronto, travel time to and from Toronto Airport (You have to leave hours earlier to go to Pearson), parking costs at Toronto, shuttle cost and time etc. Parking at Toronto is $65.00 (at the discount lot and take the monorail…this takes time) to $120.00 per week with short term right in front of Terminal 3 being $92.00 per day. Hamilton’s short term in front of the terminal is $65.00 per week and $50.00 per week if you have to walk about 100 metres further.
I believe the airport says that the extra cost per person per flight is about $125.00. This is what you should add to the cost out of Toronto.