[CMD UW]

Really, how can you tell how the terminal is going to look based on those sh*tty renderings??

Seriously....

[jeremy_haak]

I would hope that they would add some new check-in space on the south side of the terminal, otherwise there would be a very long walk to the far pier.

[Rogie]

From airlineroute.blogspot.com (http://airlineroute.blogspot.com)

Edmonton lost AC 2 Extra London flight to Vancouver

As per 02APR09 GDS timetable display. Air Canada's planned increase from 7 to 9 weekly on the Edmonton - London Heathrow service is shelved. The extra 2 weekly flights will now be moved to Vancouver. The change goes into effect from 01JUN09.

[Coldrsx]

^wok da fuk?

why? i thought loads here were very strong?

[Jasper and one o nin]

From airlineroute.blogspot.com (http://airlineroute.blogspot.com)

Edmonton lost AC 2 Extra London flight to Vancouver

As per 02APR09 GDS timetable display. Air Canada's planned increase from 7 to 9 weekly on the Edmonton - London Heathrow service is shelved. The extra 2 weekly flights will now be moved to Vancouver. The change goes into effect from 01JUN09.

I fucking hate AC... and not just because of this!

[KrisYYC]

^wok da fuk?

why? i thought loads here were very strong?

They were Ok, but yields were pretty bad.

[Rocket252]

We lose them before we even get them.

I am not surprised.

[240glt]

So really we didn't lose anything I suppose ?

It looks like I am going to London and Paris in July. Looking forward to being able to fly straight there.

[ue]

that's not fair. why should vancouver get it? give the '2' to edmonton come on.

[Bigtime]

that's not fair. why should vancouver get it? give the '2' to edmonton come on.

Fair ain't got nothing to do with it. Considering that AC is circling the ol' bankruptcy drain again I'd rather see them making moves to make money, instead of just wasting it away even more.

Heck I'm still waiting to see if any axes fall on YYC, I keep hearing that BA is struggling on the LHR route.

[Coldrsx]

that's not fair. why should vancouver get it? give the '2' to edmonton come on.

maybe if we give em a wolly pop

[Riise]

Heck I'm still waiting to see if any axes fall on YYC, I keep hearing that BA is struggling on the LHR route.

It's no surprise considering how much they are charging! What is surprising is that they are actually cheaper than AC. I was going to fly with BA this September until I saw how much cheaper it's to go with Flyglobespan.

[Bigtime]

I was going to fly with BA this September until I saw how much cheaper it's to go with Flyglobespan.

I wouldn't go with Flyglobespan, what little good I hear is always overshadowed by HUGE delays and nothing but problems for people that book with them.

[KrisYYC]

I wouldn't go with Flyglobespan, what little good I hear is always overshadowed by HUGE delays and nothing but problems for people that book with them.

Yeah Flyglobespan is pretty risky if you want to keep any sort of schedule. Supposedly they're getting better, but that's an airline that makes Air Transat look like Singapore Airlines!

AC just announced an incredible seat sale to Asia, damn I wish I had the time to a take trip in near future.

[Riise]

Yeah Flyglobespan is pretty risky if you want to keep any sort of schedule. Supposedly they're getting better, but that's an airline that makes Air Transat look like Singapore Airlines!

Cheers for the heads-up gentlemen! Air Transat had similar fares but I wouldn't touch them with a ten foot pole. As such, I guess I'll have to spend a few less nights at the club and go with BA.

[Jasper and one o nin]

They were Ok, but yields were pretty bad.
Summers the flight was full, winters not so much.. even with the reduced schedule

[EdmTrekker]

1. Just got an email from AC with changes to my Non-Stops to/from YEG to LAS in August advising they cancelled the Non-Stops (THURS AND SUN) and now the itinerary SHOWS ME CONNECTING THROUGH CALGARY - ADDING 5 HOURS TO MY TIME EACH WAY!!) on a PROP from YYC to YEG!!!.
2. I just called AC and advised since THEY made the change, I am exercising my right to cancel and am flying WJ now - NON-STOP as the changed times are not acceptable.

Screw Air Canada!!

I have 2 other trips planned with them elsewhere and am looking to cancel them. I will use SFO,SEA,SLC as connecting cities.

[Rogie]

The LAX flight seems to disappear until sometime in October, and I also noticed the YHZ non-stop doesn't seem to be on the AC schedule this summer, either. Calgary-Halifax non-stop is on the sked starting May 1... a daytime flight, no less.

[Rocket252]

As Air Canada's financial situation worsens we may have to go through Calgary on more and more flights.

[ue]

That really sucks. No offense Calgary, why do we always have to connect flights with you?

[rapid_business]

AC + outdated hub/spoke model

[MalcolmTucker]

I wouldn't call it outdated, I would just call it different.

There are strong economic incentives to run a hub and spoke model, to maximize load factors, and in Air Canada's case maximize business class and full fare economy load.

There are also strong incentives to add more flights to one route to stave off competition, rather than add an additional route. There are a limited amount of airframes out there.

Calgary generates a fair amount more O/D flights in the region, and is a natural hub for going west and south for smaller airports. Edmonton is in sort of a tough spot right now, just like Ottawa, trying to transition to a small hub.

I know a couple years ago I did YYC-YEG-YYZ since it was $20 bucks cheaper so it does go both ways. But I guess that just shows how weak the YEG-YYZ flight was at that time, or conversely how strong the YYC-YYZ flight was.

[CMD UW]

As Air Canada's financial situation worsens we may have to go through Calgary on more and more flights.As I've said before, another reason we need Cabotage given the lack of competition in Canada.

[EdmTrekker]

I wouldn't call it outdated, I would just call it different.

There are strong economic incentives to run a hub and spoke model, to maximize load factors, and in Air Canada's case maximize business class and full fare economy load.

There are also strong incentives to add more flights to one route to stave off competition, rather than add an additional route. There are a limited amount of airframes out there.

Calgary generates a fair amount more O/D flights in the region, and is a natural hub for going west and south for smaller airports. Edmonton is in sort of a tough spot right now, just like Ottawa, trying to transition to a small hub.

I know a couple years ago I did YYC-YEG-YYZ since it was $20 bucks cheaper so it does go both ways. But I guess that just shows how weak the YEG-YYZ flight was at that time, or conversely how strong the YYC-YYZ flight was.

Not so...US Air is abandoning its HUB model and going all out point to point. It is cheaper for them - and thats what passengers want.

here is good article on US Airways and impact on Vegas:

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/03/getting-healthy-our-expense/

Also AC appears to now be restating the YEG-LAS non-stops in September. Also Sunwing will now be offering charter flights in the am in Las Vegas - so we booked one for 7 nights - non-stop both ways.

[0773|=\]

Not so...US Air is abandoning its HUB model and going all out point to point. It is cheaper for them - and thats what passengers want.

here is good article on US Airways and impact on Vegas:

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/03/getting-healthy-our-expense/

Also AC appears to now be restating the YEG-LAS non-stops in September. Also Sunwing will now be offering charter flights in the am in Las Vegas - so we booked one for 7 nights - non-stop both ways.

I've always wondered what the difference in profitability for airlines would be under a model with more direct flights. Maybe more passengers would make trips because they would be non-stop flights? And what would be the emissions difference? More smaller planes vs. less larger planes with feeders... would be interesting to investigate that.

[Rocket252]

I am sure it has been investigated by the propeller heads at AC and other airlines and as a result we have the model we have today. But times and economic conditions are changing.

Wiith smaller more profitable planes maybe the hub model can be scrapped.

In the meantime we have to deal with a disfunctional airline.

[EdmTrekker]

I've always wondered what the difference in profitability for airlines would be under a model with more direct flights. Maybe more passengers would make trips because they would be non-stop flights? And what would be the emissions difference? More smaller planes vs. less larger planes with feeders... would be interesting to investigate that.

Allegiant is growing in leaps and bounds - and has NO hubs - and ONLY fly point to point. Many European carriers do the same - no connecting flights - and they abandon unprofitable routes.

My guess is YYC will be the biggest loser in Canada as the Europeans move in in North America, Aero Mexico and Mexicana pick up Canadian travelers going to Latin America by passing US connections and AC, AC mini HUB at YYC dies (or AC does), US airlines move into the Canadian market as its is now open, and a new Canadian airline starts up offering only point to point service only (like Porter), debt free, and competes head on with WJ. WJ is running 737's which in themselves cost $ if not full.

[Jasper and one o nin]

http://www.pgairport.ca/yxs/media/video.php

[Jasper and one o nin]

EIA’s Expansion 2012 Gears Up
Current terminal operating at 20% over capacity

EDMONTON – Edmonton International Airport (EIA), Canada’s fastest-growing major airport for three years in a row, is continuing its $1-billion expansion to ensure the airport can keep pace with Edmonton and Northwestern Canada’s economic development.

The project is funded by the Airport Improvement Fee (AIF), which is collected with airline tickets for departing passengers. On September 1, 2009, the AIF will increase by five dollars, to $20 per ticket. Canadian airports are non-share corporations. Since industry de-regulation in 1992, Canadian airports stopped receiving tax monies for major facility upgrades or operational requirements, and therefore have been solely responsible for funding these projects.

The airport, which was substantially renovated in 2000, is presently operating 20 per cent above capacity. The terminal was built to accommodate up to 5.5 million passengers a year. In 2008, EIA saw nearly 6.5 million passengers use its facilities.

Over the last two years, the company has worked to maximize the efficiency of terminal and airfield infrastructure through the use of new processes and technologies. Thanks to these measures, EIA has extended the design capacity of the current facility.

Although the terminal is over capacity and new space is required simply to accommodate current passenger numbers and air services, EIA is experiencing lower than forecasted passenger numbers as a result of the current global economic slowdown, and that has required Edmonton Airports to review the AIF. While we continue to see very strong double-digit passenger growth in US and international flights, numbers are down somewhat for domestic flights.

Since 2002, Edmonton Airports has worked extremely hard to identify spending efficiencies and cost-savings, and develop its non-aeronautical revenues in order to keep the AIF flat at $15 per passenger. In fact, although industry standard is to increase an AIF with new major capital projects, EIA has been able to defer an increase since 2002. From 2002 to 2008, Edmonton Airports has invested $332.1 million at Edmonton International Airport, without an AIF increase. While EIA knows its customers don’t want to pay any more than absolutely needed to use the airport, the increase to the AIF is now required.

“Our efforts to keep the AIF fixed at $15 per passenger paid off for nearly seven years,” said Reg Milley, President and CEO of Edmonton Airports. “Now, in light of the global recession and lower-than-predicted passenger growth in our domestic sector, we need to raise the AIF to fund EIA’s expansion.”

Expansion 2012 is financed through the Alberta Capital Finance Authority, which allows EIA to leverage the Province’s excellent credit rating. Edmonton Airports is also able to draw funds only as required, rather than taking out one large loan at the start of the project. This keeps interest costs down and allows flexibility in financial planning.

In addition to more gates and new, efficient airline technologies, the expanded terminal will also include many new amenities including restaurants, shops and services for travellers at EIA. Not only do in-terminal concessions give more choice to travellers, they also provide non-aeronautical revenue, which helps hold down airline and traveller fees.

Before launching Expansion 2012, EIA used technologies and process improvements to increase the capacity of the current terminal to the greatest degree possible. While this allowed EIA to serve one million passengers more than the design capacity in 2008, the facility is now at the very edge of its capacity. A number of interim programs will be required to bridge the gap until new capacity becomes available at the end of 2012. For example, apron loading busses will take fliers to aircraft required to park away from the terminal until additional terminal gates open up in 2012.

“While it’s clear we need to move ahead with our expansion, Edmonton Airports is working earnestly to identify potential cost savings through value engineering and taking advantage of a cooled economy.” said Milley. “For example, we’re pursuing procurement strategies to lock in materials and supplies now, recognizing that the economy will shift again, and prices will follow.”

[Rogie]

Couple of new points buried in the attached media backgrounder on the EIA website release:

- there's a new site plan showing by my count 26, not 30, gates in the expanded terminal, with what looks like plenty of room for expansion, also;
- buses will take passengers from the terminal to the plane:
"Boarding passengers will enter the COBUS 3000 (http://www.contrac-cobus.de/4-3-modles-de-du-cobus.html) from a ground-level gate, travel across the apron, then board their flight using specially-designed covered mobile stairs which will attach directly to both the aircraft and the bus."

Reminds me of the first time I flew out of YEG as a kid, and we had to take a bus from the US customs area to the plane, and the whole bus raised and lowered to the terminal and the a/c - just like the catering trucks do now.

Hope they have a plan to accommodate pax who use wheelchairs and those who can't manage stairs.

[LO 044]

I remember flying through Montreal's Mirabel airport and using their aircraft to terminal buses. I actually thought YEG would use something like that since it eliminates the need for stairs to/from the aircraft door. Saying that, using buses and stairs is a norm at European airports but i have never seen this at any North American airport.

[0773|=\]

http://www.flyeia.com/fly_eia/expansion_2012/building_excitement/multimedia_gallery

... Looks like we're getting a moving sidewalk :cool:

[feepa]

We've made the big times Ladies and gentlemen. A moving sidewalk at our airport.

#1!!!!!!!one!1111!!!

[LO 044]

I really like the new layout.

[Airboy]

I remember flying through Montreal's Mirabel airport and using their aircraft to terminal buses. I actually thought YEG would use something like that since it eliminates the need for stairs to/from the aircraft door. Saying that, using buses and stairs is a norm at European airports but i have never seen this at any North American airport.

Before TO had the new terminal busses were used to one of the US departure terminals as well as the International Terminal.

[espalorius]

yeah it looks pretty sweet actually. kind of simple but nice

[rapid_business]

Interesting final design. I wonder if the strange design is built with the consideration of further expansion east? It appears so. Also, have any updated renderings of the control tower/office surfaced?

Here is the perspective.
http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/964/yegplans.png

[0773|=\]

All the latest renderings appear to have the old control tower still...

[EdmTrekker]

Great to see some "detail". I am not a big fan of the design - nothing there to capture my heart. Here is what does not work for me:

1. Arrivals area looks pretty uninteresting - do not see a "feature" area - which is pretty important given this is where all US and International Visitors arrive. Also not much (if any) increase in the marshaling area awaiting Canadian Customs.

2. The general shape as displayed leaves questions about how a major expansion later would lock onto the curved design (logically, practically and economically).

3. Departure areas witth moving sidewalk (the West view (or top) truncate abruptly by stairs and seating. This will be a bottleneck as passengers can not see a visual route to bars/restaurants etc. It should be easy to arrive in the area and access services first, then seating. The whole plan for F&B appears congested, not well thought out.

4. Arrivals area Duty Free needs to be rethought. Perhaps something like PVR where duty free is either side of a walk through area (same could be done upstairs) like at PVR (or AMS).

5. Back in arrivals - baggage handling is taking to much valuable space on the floor - and should be dropped below grade to "save that space" for future arrivals area and possibly airline lounges etc. from the upper dept floor (unless they are above the arrivals area??)

Now some off the wall comments:

-family room in departures appears large (too large) and is robbing space from areas that may need it (a brew pub?? I can only hope)
-I am not a designer but have taken 500+ flights at airports around the globe and have not seen double loading corridors from the dept gates to the aircraft with 4 walls (space in the middle). Surely 4 walls with a glass divider running the middle (in between) is cheaper than 4 external walls (build, heat,maintain) - knowing this may be identified in the VE sessions.

I know this is preliminary. I hope that have a peer review process for critique of Stantec's design and to challenge the EAA internal User Groups.

[0773|=\]

http://www.flyeia.com/images/1/1181.jpg

Is that a glass floor I see? That's pretty cool!

[chevvac]

The control tower is one of the best examples of International Modernism architecture in Edmonton (as is the little service building north) and they aren't even in Edmonton. hahaha. but seriously I really hope they maintain them in some way even if they intend on building a new swanky tower. If you look closely at the skin of the tower it has alot of the same detailing that Mies van der Rohe used. Even the pilotis-like columns that raise the building up over the departures drop-off are tiled and well proportioned. Take a look next time you visit, you'll appreciate it more (well maybe). All I know will be lying is front of the bulldozers when/if they try to take it down.......

[jeremy_haak]

They had to remove glass floors from the Library of Parliament when female MPs joined the legislature, and I expect similar considerations would see them forgotten here as well.

[Jasper and one o nin]

So when I look at the interior renderings vs the plans, I dont see where the overhead walkways will be. It makes sense to me to have the access from US customs to the US holdroom to be a elevated walkway, but it appears to be at the same level. If it was elevated, then it would not create a barrier and both sides could be opened up to gates.

[Jasper and one o nin]

The control tower is one of the best examples of International Modernism architecture in Edmonton (as is the little service building north) and they aren't even in Edmonton. hahaha. but seriously I really hope they maintain them in some way even if they intend on building a new swanky tower. If you look closely at the skin of the tower it has alot of the same detailing that Mies van der Rohe used. Even the pilotis-like columns that raise the building up over the departures drop-off are tiled and well proportioned. Take a look next time you visit, you'll appreciate it more (well maybe). All I know will be lying is front of the bulldozers when/if they try to take it down.......
Why couldnt the existing tower building be retrofitted to accommodate a hotel?

[codeman9669]

So when I look at the interior renderings vs the plans, I dont see where the overhead walkways will be. It makes sense to me to have the access from US customs to the US holdroom to be a elevated walkway, but it appears to be at the same level. If it was elevated, then it would not create a barrier and both sides could be opened up to gates.


If you look at the departures level layout in the domestic gate section - there are two areas in white that say "void". I believe that these are the open air sections that look down. So, in fact, I dont think that is really an elevated walk way, but simply the departures level.

[rapid_business]

They had to remove glass floors from the Library of Parliament when female MPs joined the legislature, and I expect similar considerations would see them forgotten here as well.

Perhaps a heavy frosting?

[Rogie]

Wow, it's going to be a long walk from gate 96 (it seems YEG is keeping their strange gate numbering system) to the Canadian customs area. At least the close-up view of the planes will be spectacular.

I kinda wish they left a bit more room for beauty. I'm thinking of YVR's internationoal departures area, where it's pleasant to go wait for your flight because of all the water features and greenery, and just the walkway to the international arrivals area is stunning.

[240glt]

Why couldnt the existing tower building be retrofitted to accommodate a hotel?

Not sure what is going tobe the final useage of the current tower but rest assured it is not going anywhere.

[0773|=\]

So when I look at the interior renderings vs the plans, I dont see where the overhead walkways will be. It makes sense to me to have the access from US customs to the US holdroom to be a elevated walkway, but it appears to be at the same level. If it was elevated, then it would not create a barrier and both sides could be opened up to gates.

If you look at the plan, the over head walkway is at the far right end, next to the existing terminal, you can quickly see the vantage point of the rendering with a walkway in it.

[0773|=\]

Wow, it's going to be a long walk from gate 96 (it seems YEG is keeping their strange gate numbering system) to the Canadian customs area. At least the close-up view of the planes will be spectacular.

I kinda wish they left a bit more room for beauty. I'm thinking of YVR's internationoal departures area, where it's pleasant to go wait for your flight because of all the water features and greenery, and just the walkway to the international arrivals area is stunning.

Their release says they want the terminal to reflect on themes that are distinctly Edmontonian, so whatever that means. They mentioned themes of the River Valley and Old Strathcona, here: http://www.flyeia.com/fly_eia/expansion_2012/building_community

I too have wondered about the gate numbering system @ YEG. Perhaps those bridges are intended to accommodate two planes eventually (assigning two numbers to the same gate enterance)...? I don't know.

[LO 044]

Granted the old tower still shows in the new renderings but 240glt what makes you so sure that the old tower won't eventually be torn down?

I'm curious if the new tower will be shorter than the old one. If so, the old one can definitely be used for something like an observation area. The 360 degree views would be great and a few open windows to hear those jets roar down the runway. Why not make it into some type of museum. Dedicate a couple of floors with displays and history of the airport and/or Edmonton in general.

[rapid_business]

If you look at the plan, the over head walkway is at the far right end, next to the existing terminal, you can quickly see the vantage point of the rendering with a walkway in it.

Right... I get it now. All arrivals will walk along the perimeter of the building (as shown in the departure diagram kindof, walk down those stairs/escalator, under the departures bridge, and then to the baggage claim (as shown in the departure section).

EDIT2:
From what EdmTrekker said: I am not a designer but have taken 500+ flights at airports around the globe and have not seen double loading corridors from the dept gates to the aircraft with 4 walls (space in the middle). Surely 4 walls with a glass divider running the middle (in between) is cheaper than 4 external walls (build, heat,maintain) - knowing this may be identified in the VE sessions.

The inbetween space is a ramp headed down to the arrivals corridor (in white, which loops the perimeter of the building) I just identified above. So It is essential one solid extension. This is fairly common, and exists in plenty of airports.




So with the whole extension being dedicated to US/Intl., does that mean the whole old expansion goes domestic?

EDIT: I thought the old tower was coming down for expansion of the arrivals/departure lanes?

[Jasper and one o nin]

Wok Box at EIA
Wok Box is now open at EIA in the North Passenger Lounge across from Gate 18 - next to Tim Horton's. The Fresh Asian Kitchen's hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Wok Box represents another step forward in food and beverage service options at EIA, which have more than doubled in the last two years.

At Wok Box, market fresh, healthy, pan-Asian dishes are cooked right in front of you. Their new EIA location will feature a number of ready-to-go items in addition to their well-known Asian-fusion sizzling wok creations.

The Wok Box chain is well known for its attention to detail with décor and customer service, in addition to delicious dishes. Travellers will love the fresh tastes and quick convenience of Wok Box, which uses top-quality ingredients, an open concept kitchen and even has low-carb options so you know you’re getting a great meal at a great price.

[Jasper and one o nin]

New Duty Free kiosk in U.S. passenger lounge
EIA is pleased to welcome the addition of a cash and carry Duty Free location in the US passenger lounge. The Duty Free kiosk is located post security so passengers no longer need to worry about putting fragile purchases in their checked luggage when travelling to the US. This kiosk features their top selling alcohol, fragrances and tobacco.



The new Duty Free kiosk is located in the US passenger lounge across from Street Performers News and directly behind Toast Café. Hours of operation are dependent upon flight times.

[Jasper and one o nin]

A ‘spirited’ new retailer
EIA is excited to welcome a new store to the airport that complements the expanding retail mix that is offered to our passengers. A Flight of Wine & Spirits’ doors opened in February to begin sales of an array of wine, spirits and specialty items.

A Flight of Wine and Spirits is located post security adjacent to Second Cup and directly behind Indigo, and hours of operation are 07:00-21:00 daily. Any store inquiries can be directed to their direct line: 780-890-7288.

[Beazley66]

http://www.flyeia.com/images/1/1181.jpg

Is that a glass floor I see? That's pretty cool!

Glass floors are great. But I have to say, that the bridge leaves a lot to be desired. They can be sooo much lighter in structure. The security glass at that mezzanine level will probably be higher. What we had to to at LBPIA is design a cabled ceiling , which was literally aircraft cable tensioned in a frame, to hamper the ability to toss things over the wall. This wasn't about littering, it was about security breaches.

[EdmTrekker]

New Duty Free kiosk in U.S. passenger lounge EIA is pleased to welcome the addition of a cash and carry Duty Free location in the US passenger lounge. The Duty Free kiosk is located post security so passengers no longer need to worry about putting fragile purchases in their checked luggage when travelling to the US. This kiosk features their top selling alcohol, fragrances and tobacco. The new Duty Free kiosk is located in the US passenger lounge across from Street Performers News and directly behind Toast Café. Hours of operation are dependent upon flight times.

Its a Kiosk like a mall - I was there last week. Totally uninspiring and not much to buy - not a shopping experience.

[CMD UW]

Great to see some "detail". I am not a big fan of the design - nothing there to capture my heart. Here is what does not work for me:

1. Arrivals area looks pretty uninteresting - do not see a "feature" area - which is pretty important given this is where all US and International Visitors arrive. Also not much (if any) increase in the marshaling area awaiting Canadian Customs.

2. The general shape as displayed leaves questions about how a major expansion later would lock onto the curved design (logically, practically and economically).

3. Departure areas witth moving sidewalk (the West view (or top) truncate abruptly by stairs and seating. This will be a bottleneck as passengers can not see a visual route to bars/restaurants etc. It should be easy to arrive in the area and access services first, then seating. The whole plan for F&B appears congested, not well thought out.

4. Arrivals area Duty Free needs to be rethought. Perhaps something like PVR where duty free is either side of a walk through area (same could be done upstairs) like at PVR (or AMS).

5. Back in arrivals - baggage handling is taking to much valuable space on the floor - and should be dropped below grade to "save that space" for future arrivals area and possibly airline lounges etc. from the upper dept floor (unless they are above the arrivals area??)

Now some off the wall comments:

-family room in departures appears large (too large) and is robbing space from areas that may need it (a brew pub?? I can only hope)
-I am not a designer but have taken 500+ flights at airports around the globe and have not seen double loading corridors from the dept gates to the aircraft with 4 walls (space in the middle). Surely 4 walls with a glass divider running the middle (in between) is cheaper than 4 external walls (build, heat,maintain) - knowing this may be identified in the VE sessions.

I know this is preliminary. I hope that have a peer review process for critique of Stantec's design and to challenge the EAA internal User Groups.
You raise some valid comments. It is easy for the design team to get caught designing for function based on technical specs and client requirements.

One thing that can often be overlooked is how the 'user' will ultimately respond to the design. This aspect needs to be carefully thought out and considered.

I suggest you send your comments to the folks at YEG and perhaps they can bring this up with the architects / design team.

[CMD UW]

Its a Kiosk like a mall - I was there last week. Totally uninspiring and not much to buy - not a shopping experience.Yeah well, there isn't much 'real estate' to work with over there. So it's the best they can do for the time being.

[CanadianCentaur]

A ‘spirited’ new retailer
EIA is excited to welcome a new store to the airport that complements the expanding retail mix that is offered to our passengers. A Flight of Wine & Spirits’ doors opened in February to begin sales of an array of wine, spirits and specialty items.

A Flight of Wine and Spirits is located post security adjacent to Second Cup and directly behind Indigo, and hours of operation are 07:00-21:00 daily. Any store inquiries can be directed to their direct line: 780-890-7288.

This is a good idea. Now passengers won't have to worry about having to stick their bottles of wine or other alcoholic stuff in their checked luggage only to find one hell of a mess when they pick it up after they get off!

[CMD UW]

WestJet eyes smaller planes
BRENT JANG

Globe and Mail Update

April 14, 2009 at 7:24 AM EDT

TRANSPORTATION REPORTER

After faithfully ordering workhorse Boeing 737s over the past 13 years, WestJet Airlines Ltd. WJA-T is studying the merits of adding smaller planes, envisaging a bold departure from its single-fleet strategy.

The Calgary-based carrier, founded in 1996 with just three Boeing 737s, is pondering using smaller aircraft for regional routes as it develops contingency plans in case Air Canada and its Jazz affiliate scale back service.

WestJet has 78 Boeing 737s in its fleet, and by 2013, it expects to take delivery of 43 more of the jets, which seat between 119 and 166 passengers, depending on the series.

But as WestJet evolves, it needs to consider taking the step of ordering smaller planes, said Bob Cummings, WestJet's executive vice-president of guest experience and marketing.

"We would be remiss if we weren't looking at certain scenarios," said Mr. Cummings, declining to say whether WestJet is interested in planes built by Montreal-based Bombardier Inc., Brazil's Embraer SA or other firms.

He said WestJet is revisiting its single-fleet strategy, but he played down any direct links between the carrier's study of a second fleet and speculation from some industry analysts that Montreal-based Air Canada's financial woes could force it to further shrink its network and also disrupt Jazz Air Income Fund.

National Bank Financial Inc. analyst David Newman said yesterday that Jazz may slash its monthly distribution of 8.38 cents a unit by half for the next nine months, as the Halifax-based regional airline tries to conserve cash to help refinance a $115-million borrowing deal maturing next February. He said Jazz, which flies on behalf of Air Canada, could potentially offer its services to WestJet.

Mr. Cummings declined to comment about Jazz, but in general, he emphasized that WestJet prefers internal growth over mergers and acquisitions.

WestJet has plenty of growth opportunities to deploy Boeing 737s in Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, without even factoring in Jazz's turbulence and the possibility of debt-ridden Air Canada filing for bankruptcy protection, he said.

"We don't feel any time pressure to go to a second fleet," he said in an interview from Calgary. "But there is definitely a tipping point where this organization needs to seriously consider going to a second fleet. It just makes sense that in the life cycle of this organization, we would move beyond the consideration phase."

Devoting itself to one aircraft model, WestJet has been able to keep maintenance costs in check, and pilots can also be rescheduled on shifts without worrying about retraining.

But WestJet's strength is its corporate culture, and the competitive advantage of friendly service would be "transferable to a second fleet," Mr. Cummings said. "We believe we would do well in shorter-haul markets."

http://business.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090414.wrtickerwestjet0414/BNStory/Business/home

[Bigtime]

I remember when Embraer brought either a 175 or 190 through YYC and had it over at the Westjet hangars a few years ago.

[Jasper and one o nin]

Edmonton International Airport

Passenger Statistics for March 2009

Highlights

¨ Overall 526,699 passengers

¨ Domestic 373,377 passengers

¨ Transborder 98,403 passengers

¨ International 54,919 passengers

¨ Rolling 12 Month 6,392,444


Growth%

¨ Overall -3.7%

¨ Domestic -9.1%

¨ Transborder 20.5%

¨ International 0.6%

[240glt]

Transborder... wow.

I suppose a 3.7% slip is not that bad considering the economy and how many companies (like mine) have put travel restrictions of their staff. How are we faring compared to other airports ?

[Jasper and one o nin]

here are how US airlines are doing..
US MARCH TRAFFIC; CAUTIOUS INTERPRETATION

For the attention of C Thomas 7 April 2009


US TRAFFIC FALLS BY (8.9%)
After the PR triumph of the the London G20, economic gardeners are scouring the landscape for signs of those emerging green shoots. Should their attention turn to the latest data from US airlines they may see some cause, if not for celebration, then at least for cautious optimism.
The record for the 14 largest national airlines which account for around half of all traffic shows:
- a pax decrease in March of (8.9%) which has not been adjusted for the early Easter in 2008
- a pax decrease in February of (8.8%) which has been adjusted for the 2008 leap year.
Like with Like Comparisons

There is danger in giving the March data the benefit of a couple of percentage points for Easter and then applauding a welcome slowdown. It lies in the obsession with growth and growth rates because the February/March comparison is not like with like. It was in March last year that the direction of US traffic changed; passenger numbers fell a percentage point. While in February of 2008 the growth engine was still running. The March 2009 (8.9%) is on a much lower base figure.

The reality of last month's traffic is that it is now at a level which is some six percentage points lower than it was in 2006.

get a fuller US report through this link


The Leading Airlines in the USA
None of the individual airline reports has been adjusted for special calendar factors. The change of importance follows the new reporting convention for Delta which consolidates all traffic reporting under a single corporate entity.
Delta Airlines; USA
Passenger numbers for the month are down by -11.5% ...
Southwest Airlines; USA
Latest report shows passengers down by -3.5% ...
American Airlines; USA
Latest report shows passengers down by -9.9% ...
Continental Airlines; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -10.2% ...
US Airways; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -8% ...
United Airlines; USA
Passenger numbers for the month are down by -13.7% ...
AirTran; USA
Passenger numbers for the month are down by -6.7% ...
JetBlue; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -4.4% ...
Republic Airlines; USA
Most recent for the month: throughput rises by 1.9% ...
American Eagle; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -7.3% ...
Alaska Airlines; USA
Latest report shows passengers down by -12.6% ...
Frontier Airlines; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -16.3% ...
Horizon Air; USA
Just reported: passenger numbers drop by -15.5% ...
Allegiant Air; USA
Splendid total passenger growth achieved for the month: 18.5% ...

[Coldrsx]

just got back from flying

YEG-MSP-EWR

Again, YEG rates very very high to me now. MSP was quite nice but wow are those 'wings' for gates long.

EWR is just not great at all, but granted it is older.

Oh and cab fares... i will never bitch about them again.

Newark to Man with tolls all in with tip was $80 USD each way.

nice to be home

[MalcolmTucker]

^ You know, there are such thing as trains into Penn Station. $13 if I remember correctly. Rather fast to grab a cab once your in the city.

If you think EWR is old and cramped, have you ever flown out of LGA?

[Coldrsx]

^no but Logan was awful.

[0773|=\]

^ I flew through MSP a couple months ago, and some parts of the terminal are really starting to show their age now. It isn't the airport it was even five years ago. Not bad, but not great. I still think the best major airport in the US is Denver by a country mile.

[lubicon]

just got back from flying

YEG-MSP-EWR

Again, YEG rates very very high to me now. MSP was quite nice but wow are those 'wings' for gates long.

EWR is just not great at all, but granted it is older.

Oh and cab fares... i will never bitch about them again.

Newark to Man with tolls all in with tip was $80 USD each way.

nice to be home

I remember paying over $100 for my cab from DFW to my hotel which was located on the south side of Ft Worth, and that was in 1994. Cab fares to / from YEG are very reasonable.

[tuffyy]

Of interest to all my amigo's.

Top 5 Canadian Passenger numbers from MMUN (Cancun) International airport.

Numbers are from our ASUR records for 2008.

1.)Montreal 84,005

2.)Toronto 82,090

3.)Vancouver 80,898

4.)Edmonton 79,955

5.)Calgary 79,923

Hope you are all doing well...

[CMD UW]

Hola senor, those are great numbers from Edmonton-based passengers.

[bicycles]

Of interest to all my amigo's.

Top 5 Canadian Passenger numbers from MMUN (Cancun) International airport.

Numbers are from our ASUR records for 2008.

1.)Montreal 84,005

2.)Toronto 82,090

3.)Vancouver 80,898

4.)Edmonton 79,955

5.)Calgary 79,923

Hope you are all doing well...

muoy bien, amigo.

[240glt]

I ran into a lot of Edmontonians in Cancun when I was there a few years ago.

Those are impressive numbers for Edmonton considering it's still cheaper to fly to Cancun via Calgary on many carriers.

[Hardhatdan]

I was happy to contribute to those numbers.

[Coldrsx]

Of interest to all my amigo's.

Top 5 Canadian Passenger numbers from MMUN (Cancun) International airport.

Numbers are from our ASUR records for 2008.

1.)Montreal 84,005

2.)Toronto 82,090

3.)Vancouver 80,898

4.)Edmonton 79,955

5.)Calgary 79,923

Hope you are all doing well...

very impressive numbers... interesting that all of the top 5 are within ~4,000

[jeremy_haak]

I ran into a lot of Edmontonians in Cancun when I was there a few years ago.

Those are impressive numbers for Edmonton considering it's still cheaper to fly to Cancun via Calgary on many carriers.

I believe those numbers would probably include people traveling YEG-YYC-CUN under Edmonton, not Calgary. The practice is usually to count Origin and Destination travelers, regardless of routing.

[240glt]

^ That's just it though, you can still drive to Calgary and get a cheaper flight on many carriers, and a lot of people still do that.

[sdimedru]

^ That's just it though, you can still drive to Calgary and get a cheaper flight on many carriers, and a lot of people still do that.

alot of people i know do that exactly, park the vehicle at relatives/friends place

[hilman]

That should be extremely discouraged as it really hurts YEG's pax and ability to get more/better flights. Personally, you couldn't pay me to fly through YYC, my time is much too valuable and openly voice that to people that consider driving to YYC (or connecting via YYC). We should urge people to connect via the US/Mexico City/London if at all possible to ensure these trans border and international flights do as good as possible.

[240glt]

^ I think it is discouraged more & more and a big part of the reason that EIA has been tops in gorwth for the past few years is because fewer people are going to YYC.

But people still do, and capturing that market back to EIA should be an easy way to continue to boost EIA's numbers.

[EdmTrekker]

I believe those numbers would probably include people traveling YEG-YYC-CUN under Edmonton, not Calgary. The practice is usually to count Origin and Destination travelers, regardless of routing.

The converse would be true as well...YYC-YEG-CUN...but without factual statistics it is rather meaningless to discuss isn't it.

[tuffyy]

Numbers appear to be slightly less so far this year with the global economic crisis being the obvious factor, all the Canadian numbers are down across the board at about a -16% for MMUN.But the market still remains strong and this summer see's continued service from most Canadian cities, albeit with less frequencey until the winter season kicks back in.

Numbers are way up for travellers from Spain and Germany and are set to break some records for MMUN this year.Pullmantur, Air Europa, Iberworld, and Air comet are planning increases from Madrid and Barcelona.Aswell LTU and Condor both plan enhanced schedules for the next winter season from Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Munich and a new route to Berlin (Condor).

[Coldrsx]

as for driving to calgary to fly:

I dont think people factor in the real cost of:

driving: gas + wear and tear
time
potential hotel
parking
etc.


even if i were to save a little net at the end of the day, the hassle simply isnt worth it.

YEG should do a promo on what it costs to fly from calgary

[ExcaliburKid]

A friend of mine and his girlfriend went to Cancun about a month ago and did the drive down to Calgary. They ended up saving about $150. Hardly worth it imo.

[Coldrsx]

^last time i 'had' to fly out of YYC i got stuck in a snow storm, missed a day of work, and had blood pressure above normal.

so not worth it

[lubicon]

Thanks Tuffy. Surprising to see the YEG's numbers are higher than YYC's.

I was in CUN a couple of weeks ago and was surprised how busy the airport is. It's about on par with YYC for passenger numbers from what I have read.

When will the parallel runway be opening?

[tuffyy]

^The numbers are O&D and I guess Edmontonians just like MMUN that much more...Its only a few more than YYC but still counts.;)

I am also looking at numbers for what would be the typical ''catchment'' cities for YEG of pax heading to MMUN, these would include CYMM, CYQU, CYZF etc.

Yes this airport is very busy and only getting busier, its similar to YYC for takeoffs and landings but take the large number of 737NG's and turn those into 747-400's,757's,767's, and A330's with a few 737's and other smaller types mixed in.If anyone is heading to the Cancun/Riviera Maya area over the next while feel free to contact me and I would be happy to provide a tour of the airport or hit up some of the other local funspots...:tup:

The second runway is moving along at a good pace and should open sooner than later, it will only be 7875ft long and will be used to handle most of the smaller types using the airport like the 737's,E-190's etc...With the projected growth forcasted we are alo looking at a potential for a 4th terminal, aswell the old Terminal 1 that had only one gate and numerous remote stands that you had to walk from the aircraft to the inside is currently being renovated and should be open by the next winter season.

[tuffyy]

That should be extremely discouraged as it really hurts YEG's pax and ability to get more/better flights. Personally, you couldn't pay me to fly through YYC, my time is much too valuable and openly voice that to people that consider driving to YYC (or connecting via YYC). We should urge people to connect via the US/Mexico City/London if at all possible to ensure these trans border and international flights do as good as possible.


^This is not particularly true, most airlines look at O&D numbers as a base to demand.

For example as part of the route development team here at ASUR I take these numbers and look at current schedules or charters to the said city.If I see room for more demand than we hit up the airline or tour operator and show these numbers and what days are peak for travel and let them have at that.

For example (no secrets) with last years numbers and the current situation with the global economic crisis there is still a large amount of demand from several canadian cities, including YEG and YYC.That will reflect this summer as the flights to the area from YEG and YYC are the most there have ever been during what would be a ''slow'' period.Aswell AeroMexico who currently flies to YEG from MMUN on behalf of sunwing has expressed a interest in offering year round scheduled service in its own right, not only to Edmonton but a few other Canadian cities aswell.

Adios.

[CanadianCentaur]

^last time i 'had' to fly out of YYC i got stuck in a snow storm, missed a day of work, and had blood pressure above normal.

so not worth it

Agreed. YYC seems to get more weather-related delays than YEG does. This is one reason why I will not connect at YYC unless I have no choice or there's significant savings in my total fare.

If I have to connect through to anywhere in the western US, Hawai'i or Mexico, I'd rather go through YVR, or if to somewhere in ON, QC, or anywhere else in eastern North America, then either ORD, YYZ or YOW will do.

A friend of mine was supposed to have flown out to NYC for the weekend from YYC last year, but never made it because of a really bad snowstorm. She decided "screw it", canceled her plans altogether and instead spent some time with my sister and other friends. If she'd have gone through another airport like YYZ, this would not have happened.

[Bigtime]

I love you guys up there but sometimes it seems like you take the "won't fly through YYC" thing pretty far!

What if your friend on her way to New York hit a snowstorm like the one that paralyzed YYZ? Or the storm that destroyed YVR for a few days?

Just sayin...

[CanadianCentaur]

I love you guys up there but sometimes it seems like you take the "won't fly through YYC" thing pretty far!

What if your friend on her way to New York hit a snowstorm like the one that paralyzed YYZ? Or the storm that destroyed YVR for a few days?

Just sayin...

The weather was a lot better in YYZ or elsewhere in eastern Canada at the time, for that matter.

[Coldrsx]

^depends... YYZ has a lot of lake related weather both in winter and summer. To be honest almost all of my weather related delays have been while in YYZ.

[Bigtime]

My line of thinking is wouldn't we in both YYC & YEG rather support our own provincial international airports instead of out of province ones if we can?

[Coldrsx]

^yes and no...

In all honesty i would connect YVR or YYZ over YYC simply because a vote for YYC is somewhat a vote against YEG whereas the others are not competing per se.

[Bigtime]

Asides from the relatively few informed people (such as us on here!) how many passengers in YEG actually think about factors like this when they book their tickets? It is usually all about the ticket cost to them.

[Coldrsx]

Asides from the relatively few informed people (such as us on here!) how many passengers in YEG actually think about factors like this when they book their tickets? It is usually all about the ticket cost to them.

few i bet... although the "fly edmonton first" campaign did make it slightly more top of mind.

most friends of mine dont care though and often fly from yyc to save 100-200 bucks.

my time is worth more

[Urban_Genius]

I love you guys up there but sometimes it seems like you take the "won't fly through YYC" thing pretty far!

What if your friend on her way to New York hit a snowstorm like the one that paralyzed YYZ? Or the storm that destroyed YVR for a few days?

Just sayin...

Good point. Exactly what I've thought reading that comment. YYC isn't the only airport in the world who suffers from delays/bad wheather.

Also, maybe this is just me but if it's quite a bit cheaper to fly out of somewhere else I'd consider doing that even if it's big bad YYC. Having said that, in most cases when all is considered you don't save much money if any travelling three hours there and back to save a bit of money.

If i'm saving 200$ net, no question i'm going to YYC.

[rapid_business]

few i bet... although the "fly edmonton first" campaign did make it slightly more top of mind.

most friends of mine dont care though and often fly from yyc to save 100-200 bucks.

my time is worth more

True, but I know a number of people who spend a lot of time flying, and pay top dollar to fly direct as that is what is important to them. I bet you'll find this is more the case for business travel, but personal might favor the opposite.

[basilbrush]

Friends of ours decided to fly out of Calgary for a sunbelt vacation last spring. Apparantly it was a fairly big savings(like $800) because they had the two kids with them - which is something i can understand and relate to. Unfortunately, on the drive back to Edmonton, they hit a deer just south of Leduc and wrote of their brand new van.