[Rocket252]

^ Your right CMD.

Everything you have said is absolutely correct.

Especially the last part about not being in the same league as YYC. We are not and unfortunatly we are close enough to YYC to be in its "catchment area"

So everyone including me stop bitching about the flights because we can't do a damm thing about it.

[240glt]

CMD is absolutely correct.

EIA is in a different league than YYC, which is in a different league than YVR, which is in a different league than Pearson, etc etc.

Given the incredible growth since 1995 I'd say EIA has done well. It's important to consider that EIA is still relatively new as a major airport

And yes, you can support EIA by flying EIA first. That's something everyone can do.

Passenger volumes at EIA actually declined between 1983 and 1995. There were fewer nonstop flights from Edmonton International and more connections required through Calgary or Vancouver. Passenger growth at “the Muni” created more aircraft noise near the downtown airport.

...

by 1999, 3.8 million passengers were using EIA. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Edmonton International Airport underwent a major construction program costing $450 million.

...

By 2007, EIA was handling over 6 million passengers per year, flying to 53 non-stop destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. To accommodate 9 million passengers by 2012, Edmonton International Airport plans to spend another $1 billion on an airport expansion project that will add gates, build a new passenger concourse and expand parking.

http://corporate.flyeia.com/about_us/eia_history

[ExcaliburKid]

Good call 240. Besides, the expansion was supposed to last us until 2015 and YEG has absolutely shattered that expectation eight years ahead of time. We literally have no room to grow until the addition is done. It's pretty exciting if you ask me, imagining whats capable of coming once this is complete.

[Coldrsx]

also... ain't no fucking way i am taking a 767 that far...

YVR/SEA/SAN FRAN/LA for me

[MalcolmTucker]

also... ain't no fucking way i am taking a 767 that far...

YVR/SEA/SAN FRAN/LA for me

Air Canada is going to be / might already be ETOPS only. Are you only going to fly A380s, 747s, and A340s? (and i guess some older trijets?) and change airlines to do it? What if they change equipment at the last minute on ya to a twin jet?

[tuffyy]

You all really need to take things in stride.
From today our ASUR online updated something for YEG specifically.The translated version from espanol.
AMX ( AeroMexico) has applied to transport Canada for the right to operate a twice weekly year round scheduled service from MMUN to CYEG with the option of upto 4 weekly flights. The application has been granted but with no indication of a start up date or aircraft type.
I have also caught wind of something else that could be a big deal aswell.
Lets also remember that Zurich is not a new seasonal route for YYC only the codeshare with Swiss not that big a deal.The KE flights really running for just over a month again and likely not returning in 2011...

[Rocket252]

^ With all due respect Tuffyy you can spin this any way you want but the fact is YYC has real flights in the books to a variety of new/existing locations that will be starting in the new year while all we have are rumors right now. And would this not be the time of year for airlines to solidify their 2010 schedules.We have not heard a peep other than yourself regarding anything new coming to YEG.

And another flight to MMUN? Don't get me wrong. I love going there but we have tons of flights going to MMUN already. Westjet, Air Transat, Skyservice, Sunwing, wow even Air Canada scrapped together a plane from somewhere to provide a route to MMUN.

Give us some diversity in our routes - a flight to NYC or Miami.

[dansk]

You should be happy if Aero comes to YEG. Look face the facts. YYC can put Business butts in the seats of those plans and high paying tourist. Edmonton does not have the type of corporate mass to substain to many flights. However....One more flight to Europe would be good. What can Edmonton handle? YEG is a great outbound tourist market, that is why you see additions. Inbound is not developed that well.

YEG does need to work on leakage. Trying the QEII start counting the cars you pass that have rental plates starting with H- or the Black sitcker in the bottom right...you start to realize how many business people fly to Calgary do there meetings then drive up to Edmonton to finish. Advertising on the QEII is needed I think.

[0773|=\]

^Actually not a bad idea. I think our city to some extent has to figure out what comes first... attracting a corporate base, or attracting flights to our airport. One focus has to follow the other.

[dansk]

Exactly. Right Edmonton needs to continue with the building business from the ground up ie nano, medical.... however, they need to be hunting for other established business. Most cities have a team in government that does this, does Edmonton?

[ST1]

I'm not trying to turn this thread into a YYC vs YEG battle, but since you asked the question, I'll throw in my thoughts based on my own expericence as to why people might drive down to Calgary, as illogical as it may seem.

1) There are direct flight destinations from Calgary that you can't get from Edmonton.

2) Most important reason for me. Of the places that both airports fly directly to, YYC typically has more flights. By the time you get out to EIA, you're only two hours away from YYC anyhow.

3) When going to a city, especailly an American city, that neither airport flies directly to, you typically have better options going through YYC. Because there are more options, often YYC has the cheapest, so the extra gas money isn't as much a factor.

When I lived in Fort Mac, I used YYC a few times instead because of the better flexibilty.
I had to go to Charlotte once, and I flew out of Calgary because it had two or three flights a day to Dallas and then a quick transfer. I could also pick from the two or three fights a day to Chicago and then a quick transfer. There were several other ways to do it, but the one through Dallas was easiest and cheapest.

Going through EIA would have meant going through, Minneapolis (iirc), and then transfer, but the flight didn't fit my schedule (only one flight a day), it was also 200 bucks more expensive.

Granted every situation is going to be different, but when flying to the US I always ended up using YYC.

^ I guess I don't fly to many exotic and far away locations but I've always flown out of EIA to anywhere else in Canada, the states & Mexico.

In fact, I see I can get a seat saver fare from EIA to PV on WJ for $149 direct one way. Not bad... I may just have to sneak away for a few days.

I don't know why people would drive to C-town so that they can spend 6 hours in the car, $60 on fuel, park further away from the terminal when the EIA is right here.

[Rocket252]

^ There is no battle because YEG has lost this war a long time ago but ST1 is essentially correct.

Pricing , scheduling of flights etc are skewed in YYC's favor because we are dealing with a hub - spoke system and the airlines WANT to funnel you to YYC. They may not admit it but thats what they are doing.

[CMD UW]

^There should be no war with YYC period. YYC has established itself as the Prairie hub a long time ago. This is why it produces the PAX numbers it does. Plus the fact that it is a major gateway to one of Canada's major tourist destinations and home of the energy sector.

This doesn't mean YEG won't and can't get better service and routes. In fact the past couple of years has proven the contrary. We need to focus on how to build YEG versus worrying so much about YYC. I am 100% certain that YEG add more US destinations and at least another major European destination within the next year or so. It is a great airport that continues to serve Edmontonians well.

[tuffyy]

You all seem to forget the AMX flights all have business class and if marketed properly you can connect to S.A from here as we are Mexicos second gateway.A mix of leisure and connecting traffic makes this routing a sure winner.

[0773|=\]

I used to attend a school in the states, and it varied which airport I would fly from when I would come home for Christmas/summer ...probably more than it should have, but it depended on a lot of outside circumstances. For instance, sometimes at Christmas, our family would plan a ski-trip... well then it was a no-brainer to fly into YYC.

Generally, US flights to YYC would be a few bucks cheaper (though on occasion the prices were identical), but once cost of time and money was factored in, YEG was still a more affordable option. When I was attending this school, a friend of mine from Lacombe would often fly back with me, and if his folks were picking us up, then YYC made more sense, but if that wasn't the case, it would always be YEG.

On the topic of connections, I've never found a connection to be that much of a pain as long as it wasn't more than 3 hours. Hub terminals (for me anyways) are a nice place to catch your breath, grab a bite, and wander around (except YYZ---too expensive).

Considering YEG is far and away the second busiest airport on the prairies, I don't think Edmonton has too much to be concerned about. Just keep doing what it's doing.

[Cow-garian]

Hey guys, I've been looking at quite a few posts back but I can't seem to find information on YEG's 1.1 billion dollar expansion plan. Could someone direct me to the page, and second question, are these plans being implemented.

Thanks in advance!

[Cow-garian]

^Never mind, did some quick googling and found the information. I am quite impressed by the aggressive expansion plans of YEG; almost doubling the amount of gates (30 from 17 gates). I'm sure this picture has been posted before, but what the hell, this thread seems like it needs some pictures :D

http://www.flyeia.com/images/1/1177.jpg
Credit EIA (http://www.flyeia.com/fly_eia/expansion_2012/building_excitement/multimedia_gallery)

I remember reading it somewhere on the EIA website; 9 million PAX by 2015. That's pretty sweet! :tup:

Below is a comparison (not as pretty picture) of YYC's expansion plans. I believe they're adding 12(ish) gates, parkade and an additional main runway among other things
http://www.calgaryairport.com/data//1/rec_imgs/54_ATB-Complexe-2010-2015-sm.jpg?refresh=910
CreditYYC (http://www.calgaryairport.com/Default.aspx?cid=26&lang=1)

[dansk]

Thanks for the reminder for people up in Edmonton^ There is so much you guys should be happy about. The CCA is finally starting to close...hopefully. You're Airport is growing even though it isn't a hub...but you are a focus city (sure YWG would love that status). Edmonton is a great city, and you need to build on your postives not what Calgary has. Keep making Edmonton your city.

One thing I was thinking about... Since the Federal Government was the party that placed YEG so far out south of Edmonton. Why isn't the city of Edmonton lobbying like crazy to get a commuter train or something from Edmonton to the airport? Espeically right now when you have a PM from Alberta, and you can lobby from the stand point of being green and building a better economy during a recession??? No brainer to me.

[MalcolmTucker]

^ Canada is not like the states where you get one off grants for projects. Everything is distributed on a per capita basis through programs. A train to the airport takes away money that might build an interchange or two, some of the Henday, or a couple km of LRT elsewhere that would be much more 'green'.

[Rocket252]

LRT to the airport is a priority but it must be incorporated into a regional transportation plan.

Right now they are trying to get bus service there but that is bogged down in political games.

[MalcolmTucker]

I think you have an odd definition of priority. An undefined arrow pointing towards the airport is not 'a priority'.

[Rocket252]

Considering the short sighted decision to place the airport in its present location I would think in my opinion that an an LRT link is required. Does the city and the province think it is a priority? I would hope so based on a regional transportation plan they can come up with jointly.

[Cow-garian]

Do they have at least a public bus line connecting the airport to Edmonton? I think building a LRT should be top priority but it's not essential. Down south over here, our airport doesn't have LRT access (it's planned for -they ended up building the west leg first-) and for the most part it works.

[RTA]

Considering the short sighted decision to place the airport in its present location I would think in my opinion that an an LRT link is required. Does the city and the province think it is a priority? I would hope so based on a regional transportation plan they can come up with jointly.

How short-sighted was it really?

- Ample room for expansion
- Easy access from a primary highway
- No restrictions on noise or times flights can use the runways
- No height restrictions in the established areas of the city
- Etc.

[noodlenoodle]

Do they have at least a public bus line connecting the airport to Edmonton? I think building a LRT should be top priority but it's not essential. Down south over here, our airport doesn't have LRT access (it's planned for -they ended up building the west leg first-) and for the most part it works.

The need is there, and so is part of the will, but unfortunately it's mired in the Regional quagmire that shackles Edmonton as much as the City Centre Airport ever did.

[Rocket252]

No bus service but lots of discussion about setting something up.

Right now its mired in a political wasteland called committee.

[Rocket252]

How short-sighted was it really?

- Ample room for expansion
- Easy access from a primary highway
- No restrictions on noise or times flights can use the runways
- No height restrictions in the established areas of the city
- Etc.

If EIA had been been located in present day Mill Woods (for example)

- a quicker resolution regarding the debate between CCA and EIA which would have given EIA a CHANCE to be the dominant airport in Alberta. Height restrictions for downtown would have been abolished a long time ago.

- integrated transit and road access to the airport - probably a ring road sooner as well as LRT service to EIA by now.

- still be able to expand in the area proposed. A green area around the airport could have been proposed to deal with any noise issues


It was basically a bad decision at the time and we are paying for it today.
-

[Cow-garian]

^I don't know if height restrictions would have been abolished (maybe not as bad as the present 150m max). Chances are that you guys would have had some form of shadowing restrictions much like we do. (damn you height-shadowing restrictions!!)

[Surrealplaces]

There are more flights to the US out of YYC, but if going to the U.S. it shouldn't make that much of a difference if you fly out of YEG. From YEG you've got multiple flights to Chicago, LA, Denver, and Minni which are hub airports.

I could possibly see driving down to Calgary for overseas flights where YYC has quite a few more directs.




1) There are direct flight destinations from Calgary that you can't get from Edmonton.

2) Most important reason for me. Of the places that both airports fly directly to, YYC typically has more flights. By the time you get out to EIA, you're only two hours away from YYC anyhow.

3) When going to a city, especailly an American city, that neither airport flies directly to, you typically have better options going through YYC. Because there are more options, often YYC has the cheapest, so the extra gas money isn't as much a factor.

[Cow-garian]

There are more flights to the US out of YYC, but if going to the U.S. it shouldn't make that much of a difference if you fly out of YEG. From YEG you've got multiple flights to Chicago, LA, Denver, and Minni which are hub airports.

I could possibly see driving down to Calgary for overseas flights where YYC has quite a few more directs.

I agree, I say "support your own damn airport!" and stop clogging up the QEII and stop making our check-in lines longer! :yes:

[Rocket252]

^Smart words from our southern friend and poster

[dansk]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/porter-the-little-airline-that-could/article1372293/

Maybe they could run routes that WJ can't from Edmonton. Like Edmonton -Lethbridge as well. Hopefully ERAA is all over this.

[jawagord]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/porter-the-little-airline-that-could/article1372293/

Maybe they could run routes that WJ can't from Edmonton. Like Edmonton -Lethbridge as well. Hopefully ERAA is all over this.

Reads like a perfect fit for flights from the Muni;)

[Rocket252]

^ nada, zip, zilch, zero, nope

Forget about it.

Case closed.

[MalcolmTucker]

If Porter decides it wants in the Muni, it will spend years getting it done. They spent 8 years of government lobbying getting the Toronto Island Airport ready for their first flight. If I was Porter I would plan it something like this as my lobbying goals.

The first step would be for the Governor in Council to pass an order splitting the Airport Authority. This can be done under the guise of 'preparing the Muni for its phased shut down and letting EIA focus on the main airport'. This airport authority would also be given control over the other small airports in the region for the reason to ensure continuity of service for general aviation, preparing one of the fields to be a new business hub. As part of this switch, the EIA board is put under authority of the new Capital Regional Planning Board thing, where the new authority goes to city council. All logical explainable moves.

Then, the new airport authority under law needs to be self sufficient, and the board members/corporate employees who like their titles and jobs have reason to try to squeeze every penny out of the airport until it is closed lobby for some allowance of flights to the north. City council is told that the muni has operated under an effective subsidy from EIA for years and the airport either has to be closed, subsidized or allowed to seek limited flights. They also say it is for a period of ten years to generate cash flow to allow the renovation of one of the GA airports under its umbrella to accommodate all the muni businesses and traffic.

After a couple years of persistent losses, the airport authority presents a turnaround policy to Transport Canada and City of Edmonton to allow the original plan to go forward: close the muni and spend money upgrading one of the GA airports. This plan involves minimal capital, and puts in place rules allowing only STOL aircraft into the airport with a limited number of slots based of a NEF 25 (or higher) noise contour. This lifts some of the height restrictions (maybe) and makes sure there are no 737s draining Edmonton's passenger base. The noise limit effectively restricts flights to around 1.6 million available PAX a year, based on Q400s or BAE 146s. City council endorses the idea since some money will be used to start remediation around industrial areas of the airport making the land more valuable for the city, and it doesn't interfere with the planed phase shutdown (going down to one runway, etc).

In the end (20 years) you would end up with a one runway airport, with the profit from the STOL port being used to rebuild the rest of the airport in city councils vision, while upgrading another airport to replace the muni.

[CMD UW]

There are more flights to the US out of YYC, but if going to the U.S. it shouldn't make that much of a difference if you fly out of YEG. From YEG you've got multiple flights to Chicago, LA, Denver, and Minni which are hub airports.

I could possibly see driving down to Calgary for overseas flights where YYC has quite a few more directs.
Exactly, along with direct flights and increased dailies to places such as SFO, SEA, PHX, etc. YEG has done very well building up their US routes compared to what we had 5-years ago.

[Stephen Ave]

Exactly, along with direct flights and increased dailies to places such as SFO, SEA, PHX, etc. YEG has done very well building up their US routes compared to what we had 5-years ago.

The only direct destinations in the US that YEG doesn't have but YYC does are: NYC, Dallas San Diego and Portland. NYC and Dallas are big hubs, but Chicago Denver and L.A. probably get you what you need.

For interest sake;

U.S. Daily flights from YYC 40
Houston 6
Phoenix 5
Seattle 5
Los Angeles 4
Denver 4
San Francisco 3
Chicago 3
Minneapolis 2
SLC 2
Dallas 2
NYC 1
San Diego 1
Portland 1

U.S. Daily flights from YEG 18
Seattle 3
Denver 3
Minneapolis 2
San Francisco 2
Chicago 2
Los Angeles 2
Phoenix 2
SLC 1
Houston 1

[Coldrsx]

^but frequency and plane type are important factors as well.

YEG very much needs NYC and perhaps a MIA or ATL. Other than that we are decently covered for the US of A.

[Rocket252]

^ and a lot of our flights are not mainline flights that use larger planes.

As well the frequency and ability to transfer are not as good at YEG.

All this leads to leakage to YYC.

[dansk]

^ and a lot of our flights are not mainline flights that use larger planes.

As well the frequency and ability to transfer are not as good at YEG.

All this leads to leakage to YYC.

Tranfering for the traveller from Edmonton is not an issue usually as the airlines usually have early morning flights out and maybe one afternoon flight to make sure travellers from YEG hit the prime connection times at the US hubs. The transfer issues are for passengers coming to YEG, they are not designed for transfering usually.

[Mycroft]

flights to ATL or NYC would be gravy...although last time I flew to Hartsfield (last month) the 767 I was on mistakenly landed on the taxiway instead of the runway....sketchy, but apparently a result of their weird configuration and last minute landing control changes.

[Rocket252]

From Hicks

AIRPORT HOTEL

Taking longer than expected is a project you'd think was a natural -- a new hotel right beside the International Airport terminal.

Concord Hotels (owner of the downtown Marriott Courtyard) could not arrange the financing to deliver on its initial agreement with the airport authority. That agreement has expired.

So the airport is back looking for somebody to build and operate a 200-room hotel with meeting spaces and banquet rooms for all the built-in business that comes from being right beside an airport terminal

[Coldrsx]

^i truly hope someone sees the opportunity in this and puts something together. YEG very much needs a hotel for travelers, business, and to take it up another level in terms of airport services.

[Jasper and one o nin]

I could see a Delta at YEG

[MalcolmTucker]

^ Yeah, the Calgary Airport Delta has been around since Calgary had similar PAX, I can't see any reason someone won't be found to build it. Now maybe not as high a star rating, but a good 3.5 star would work.

[Coldrsx]

3.5 would be ideal... enough services for the business traveler but convenient and affordable enough for avg. joe passing through.

[0773|=\]

If the first hotel at YEG's terminal is heavily used (whenever it comes), would it not mitigate any hesitation for investing in a second or third on-site hotel (that they would come sooner than later), or is it unrealistic to see YEG with more than one hotel in its terminal given its projected PAX counts?

I just think somebody has to test the waters here, and if they find themselves up to their eyeballs with guests, YEG has to promote that!

[dansk]

YEG all over this?
http://www.cbc.ca/fp/story/2009/11/26/2272623.html

Air Jazz expanding with tour operations and 737?

[Cow-garian]

If the first hotel at YEG's terminal is heavily used (whenever it comes), would it not mitigate any hesitation for investing in a second or third on-site hotel (that they would come sooner than later), or is it unrealistic to see YEG with more than one hotel in its terminal given its projected PAX counts?

I just think somebody has to test the waters here, and if they find themselves up to their eyeballs with guests, YEG has to promote that!


My first intuition was to think no, YEG is just not that busy to sustain two hotels BUT then I remembered that YEG is the middle of bum f$$k nowhere. For a transient traveler one would rather get that extra time of sleep and stay right beside the airport rather than go all the way to Edmonton. Unless Leduc has been able to capitalize on this fact and build hotels there? Since its closer to the airport

[Coldrsx]

^across the hwy from YEG there are oh about 10 craptels and maybe 1 or 2 decent ones.

[Jasper and one o nin]

If I had to take one of the 6 AM flights, I would stay there the night before - every time

[Coldrsx]

^why? I made an 8am flight leaving downtown Edmonton at 640am.

[Jasper and one o nin]

well good for you, if I have to make a 6 AM flight to the states I would have to get up at 3:30 AM at the latest - If I am a stone throw away, I could get up at least an hour later. That one hour is a big deal to me.
Im sure I would not be the only one. Besides YEG's catchment area is vast, and a lot of people would welcome an onsite hotel for this very reason. I would think that probably a big chunk of stays would be from locals

[Coldrsx]

^concur in full.

just messin'

A hotel with decent services is a must along with 1 more restaurant on entry off of Hwy 2.

[CMD UW]

^across the hwy from YEG there are oh about 10 craptels and maybe 1 or 2 decent ones.These are the 2-star hotels such as The Hamptons Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Executive Inn, YEG needs and could sustain a 3-3.5 star Delta or something along the lines.

Too bad about the financing falling through for the Marriott, but timing was bad on that one.

[sdimedru]

craptels... nice

[tuffyy]

YEG all over this?
http://www.cbc.ca/fp/story/2009/11/26/2272623.html

Air Jazz expanding with tour operations and 737?

Doesnt sound like they need to be as YEG is mentioned as one of the gateways for the tour operator.It will be neat to see a 737-800 in Jazz paint though...

[LO 044]

Canadian North drops Calgary
leave a comment »

Canadian North has ended service to Calgary. Service suspension went into affect since 25OCT09.

It operates up to 10 weekly on Calgary – Edmonton (Northbound, 7 weekly Southbound), with connections to Yellowknife, Norman Wells or Inuvik, under the same flight number service.

I think this is old news but anyways. I'm assuming this cancellation has to do with dwindling loads based on the fact that Air Canada flies YYC-YZF 2x daily. Canadian North seems to be getting hit hard from both ends as Air Canada is introducing flights to Iqaluit from Ottawa and Montreal in 2010.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/north/story/2009/11/10/nunavut-aircan-reax.html

[Airboy]

I think this is old news but anyways. I'm assuming this cancellation has to do with dwindling loads based on the fact that Air Canada flies YYC-YZF 2x daily. Canadian North seems to be getting hit hard from both ends as Air Canada is introducing flights to Iqaluit from Ottawa and Montreal in 2010.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/north/story/2009/11/10/nunavut-aircan-reax.html

Probably has more to do with the drop in the oil sector.

AC doesn't go any further north than Yellowknife or Iqaluit. You still need FA or CN

[Rocket252]

Check this out:

http://eliteindoorparking.com/

As well a question. Does EIA have a channel on Shaw that broadcasts departures and arrivals?

[Rocket252]

From Hicks
WILL THEY LIKE

OUR FESTIVALS?

Edmonton Tourism has looked forward to the easing of tourist travel from China to Canada.

"I was talking to a Shanghai travel agent," says local tourism boss Ken Fiske.

"He said, 'Now I can bring about 500 Chinese tourists to Edmonton.'

" 'Great!' I said, 'On an annual basis?' "

" 'No," the travel agent replied. 'Weekly.' "



I would think this would justify a few flights into Edmonton?

[Coldrsx]

From Hicks
WILL THEY LIKE

OUR FESTIVALS?

Edmonton Tourism has looked forward to the easing of tourist travel from China to Canada.

"I was talking to a Shanghai travel agent," says local tourism boss Ken Fiske.

"He said, 'Now I can bring about 500 Chinese tourists to Edmonton.'

" 'Great!' I said, 'On an annual basis?' "

" 'No," the travel agent replied. 'Weekly.' "



I would think this would justify a few flights into Edmonton?


now that would be a real xmas present

[Xelebes]

From Hicks
WILL THEY LIKE

OUR FESTIVALS?


Link to the original article?

[hilman]

^ http://www.edmontonsun.com/news/columnists/graham_hicks/2009/12/11/12117781-sun.html

[Urban_Genius]

From Hicks
WILL THEY LIKE

OUR FESTIVALS?

Edmonton Tourism has looked forward to the easing of tourist travel from China to Canada.

"I was talking to a Shanghai travel agent," says local tourism boss Ken Fiske.

"He said, 'Now I can bring about 500 Chinese tourists to Edmonton.'

" 'Great!' I said, 'On an annual basis?' "

" 'No," the travel agent replied. 'Weekly.' "



I would think this would justify a few flights into Edmonton?
Do it. That would be sweet.

[Jasper and one o nin]

Just because Hicks is quoting Ken Fiske who is quoting some Chinese travel agent means about as much the word "jumbo" when relating it to shrimp

[Edmonchuck]

So what.

They've "eased" travel restrictions.

Wooptie doo.

You still need an airline to service this potential demand, and with China looking domestic rather than international, good luck.

[Wrecker]

Just wondering why YEG, after reading their expansion plans, aren't making the airport capable of handling winter, as far as passengers are concerned. Its ridiculous to have a winter aiport with no heated parking, no heated drop offs, etc, etc. After landing here in the winter, I think the airport is the biggest joke going. Didn't someone look at a map and realize they weren't building the Maui international airport.

[Coldrsx]

Just wondering why YEG, after reading their expansion plans, aren't making the airport capable of handling winter, as far as passengers are concerned. Its ridiculous to have a winter aiport with no heated parking, no heated drop offs, etc, etc. After landing here in the winter, I think the airport is the biggest joke going. Didn't someone look at a map and realize they weren't building the Maui international airport.

$$$

To heat that kind of space with that many entrances and exits would not be viable.

For the number of days a year it is 'unbearable', it simply does not justify the cost IMO.

The bigger issue is people coming home from mexico in shorts in January.

[Wrecker]

^ It could be done...it wouldn't be the first heated parkade. Could use geothermal....only needs to be at about 5 degrees. Also don't forget, bearable to a local, isn't bearable to others, especially seniors. If this is your first impression of Edmonton, it isn't good. I see an international airport, that is severly lacking in the ability to accomodate travellers, for the conditions that WILL occur. It would be like not putting air conditioners in Houston airport.

[Coldrsx]

My only issue with the arri/dept exterior of YEG is that there is not cantilevered cover of the departure drop off and how tiny the pickup area is.

[MalcolmTucker]

^ It could be done...it wouldn't be the first heated parkade. Could use geothermal....only needs to be at about 5 degrees. Also don't forget, bearable to a local, isn't bearable to others, especially seniors. If this is your first impression of Edmonton, it isn't good. I see an international airport, that is severly lacking in the ability to accomodate travellers, for the conditions that WILL occur. It would be like not putting air conditioners in Houston airport.

I forget does Edmonton have the dual level arrivals/departures concourse? If it does, wouldn't cost to much to at least shelter the departures (lower level) from the wind.

[Rocket252]

First I just want to give credit to the baggage handlers and other outside workers at the Edmonton International for having to work in these harsh conditions.

Good job Guys and Gals!!

The ability to have a heated parking area would be nice. Perhaps they can check other cold weather airports for ideas on how they deal with extreme temps.

[Wrecker]

^ That is an excellent suggestion! First though, I think someone has to identify it as an issue. Maybe its just me, but I think its something that needs to be addressed.

[Mycroft]

I agree that more steps could be taken to better winterize operations, but underground parking is simply not possible...That would have to be one massive parkade to accommodate the demand, and at around $40,000 per stall, it ain't gunna happen. I suppose some sort of heated kiss n' fly/pick-up canopy may be possible, but really, how many cold snaps like this does Edmonton get?

[Jasper and one o nin]

first of all the departures level is on the second floor. A heated parkade would have to be underground which is just stupid considering the size of the entire garage and the fact that it is an airport and not a shopping centre. Cost cost cost... If I had a billion dollars to spend I would focus on what is important.. lack of gates and the overall airport function. The bigger "joke" is not having a gate to park an airplane. If being dropped off, how long does it take to get from the car to the entrance? as for the rest of the parking, there are over, what, 5-6000 (10,000 i dont know) parking spots now are you suggesting they all be inside a heated garage? Guess, no matter what you do, you cant make everybody happy.
we live in a winter city... and I have flown into MANY winter cites, and havent seen what you are suggesting

[Edmonchuck]

Most winter cities have outdoor parking lots. However, they also have ENCLOSED pedways going to the parking lot and the terminal. At least that last part of the walk is warm. I know that the design of the departures level kind of precluded this amenity, but it sure would have been nice.

[Wrecker]

I never suggested underground parking...I'm sure it wouldn't take much to enclose the existing parkade....even without heat it would help. I also never suggested that we need all stalls this way, but when you're gone for 2 weeks and your car has been sitting in this weather, we need some....it can be difficult. I also hate the "I haven't seen others doing this" arguement. I don't care if others aren't, I care if we are.

[Jasper and one o nin]

I never suggested underground parking...I'm sure it wouldn't take much to enclose the existing parkade....even without heat it would help. I also never suggested that we need all stalls this way, but when you're gone for 2 weeks and your car has been sitting in this weather, we need some....it can be difficult. I also hate the "I haven't seen others doing this" arguement. I don't care if others aren't, I care if we are.
no offence, but what you're suggesting is ridiculous. If I knew my AIF was going towards enclosing the parkade rather than going towards something useful - I would be pretty pissed. Frankly if I know the weather will be in the -30 or colder range, I'm taking a cab - or getting family to give me a ride. Or, if I am feeling really good about myself, I go for the valet parking. My car is ready and reasonably warm when I arrive. Maybe that is the solution, rather than everyone who uses the airport contributing to the millions of dollars enclosing the parkade :koko: and all the mechanical equipment that goes with it - you can pay extra for the valet parking - oh and the "haven't seen other people argument" is actually a good one, b/c if it made sence, someone else would actually do it.

[Coldrsx]

Most winter cities have outdoor parking lots. However, they also have ENCLOSED pedways going to the parking lot and the terminal. At least that last part of the walk is warm. I know that the design of the departures level kind of precluded this amenity, but it sure would have been nice.

yes.... YES..... YES!!!!!!!

[Wrecker]

no offence, but what you're suggesting is ridiculous. If I knew my AIF was going towards enclosing the parkade rather than going towards something useful - I would be pretty pissed. Frankly if I know the weather will be in the -30 or colder range, I'm taking a cab - or getting family to give me a ride. Or, if I am feeling really good about myself, I go for the valet parking. My car is ready and reasonably warm when I arrive. Maybe that is the solution, rather than everyone who uses the airport contributing to the millions of dollars enclosing the parkade :koko: and all the mechanical equipment that goes with it - you can pay extra for the valet parking - oh and the "haven't seen other people argument" is actually a good one, b/c if it made sence, someone else would actually do it.


Well you assume that everyone lives close enough to take a cab..very close minded for an airport that has to service half the Province. 2nd, an enclosed parkade isn't a billion dollar venture....they do appear in downtown Edmonton....and perhaps someone else hasn't done it because they don't need to, or because they don't have the vision & willpower...or do you think that Edmonton can't do someting first? If you want to be a meople, just following along go right ahead, but I prefer being in the lead!

[codeman9669]

I just had a couple quick questions/comments.

First of all, does money from the AIF go towards the parkade/parking lot? You would think at $20/day/stall or $100/week/stall, that the parkade/parking improvements would pay for themselves.

Now, as for my comment: I undertand that there were design or building issues with the original parkade which didnt allow for them to expand upward. However, is there any reason that a ROOF couldnt have been placed over the top level. It really stinks to show up after a week on the road only to discover that your car is buried in snow...and the lucky guys that got to park one level below you (and at the same cost) are free of snow.

Lastly, if they end up knocking down the old control building, is there not an opportunity to put in a fully enclosed walkway from the parkade to the airport building?

[Edmonchuck]

A quick off the cuff estimate on the ROI for an underground parkade, combined with some rather large assumptions, would be in the range of 15-20 years. This assumed 80% occupancy and a direction of all profits to the parkade only.

Given the income stream of the airport, and the fact that parking revenue goes into the general revenue stream, and the other capital asks against this budget, it would be a hard sell to do underground versus the north terminal or the new tower or the international expansion. Add ramp and runway upgrades along with equipment such as current firefighting vehicles and you can quickly see that the business case for underground parking is weak.

[Rocket252]

Instead of more parking how about a functional and effective transit system to YEG?

[Edmonchuck]

That is a civic issue, albeit a no brainer.

YEG does not make money via the ETS, so look for them to make parking more of an option. The biggest reason right now for transit to YEG is the employees more than the traveler.

[Rocket252]

^ I live in North Edmonton near the Clairview LRT station.

I would love to able to get on the LRT and go all the way to YEG for say $5.00 instead of driving there and paying to park.

Even the proposed bus service from Century place would be better then what we have now which is nothing.

[Rocket252]

Westjet is providing YEG - SFO and YEG - Kamloops for the summer of 2010

Also from seasonal to year round YEG -Cancun

[Rocket252]

Finally some competition for AC on the SFO route

[Coldrsx]

Finally some competition for AC on the SFO route

no kidding... cannot wait to see what fares do.

Can yr round will be nice as well.

[lubicon]

Westjet is providing YEG - SFO and YEG - Kamloops for the summer of 2010

Also from seasonal to year round YEG -Cancun

SFO and Kamloops are both going to be 3x weekly, but that's a good start. Support the service and Westjet has a good track record of upping the frequency. Here's hoping.

[Urban_Genius]

AC Jazz should do YEG-YXS (Prince George)

I know YYC-YXS didn't work out too well, but I think Northern's BC capital to Edmonton would work. It's absurd that you either have to drive (terrible road in winter), Bus or fly via YVR (almost less efficient then driving)

[Coldrsx]

YEG-LAX has $68 one ways right now... tempting

[DAVEinEDMONTON]

Westjet is providing YEG - SFO and YEG - Kamloops for the summer of 2010

Also from seasonal to year round YEG -Cancun

Always good to see service at YEG increase.

Saw a great price the other day to Puerto Vallarta departing Boxing Day for a week. $199 plus tax on Air Transat. I am going for $149 down and $249 back on Westjet which is still a deal at that time.

Heads up to anyone travelling to check out bookings on Expedia versus Westjet's website. No return flights for Westjet came up for my flight on Westjet's website for PV for January 2 or 3rd. However, Westjet flights came up on expedia for real cheap. The only issue is that you cannot use Westjet's refund policy if you cannot go. The ticket is non-refundable.

[lubicon]

The word I am hearing is that WJ is reducing LAX from daily to 4x weekly next summer. This coincides with the 3x weekly SFO flights. Still leaves daily service to California, just not to each city. I'm also hearing that they are cutting YVR-YMM (Ft Mac) next summer so YEG should pick up some connecting traffic there.

[CanadianCentaur]

I've heard the same about YVR-YMM.

However, WestJet's likely getting more 737s over the next couple of years, so the potential for new routes out of YEG should be great.

[Coldrsx]

Nyc
Wj Chicago
Atl

[RedStar]

Here are the numbers

Month Domestic Transborder International Total
October* 400,710 84,726 11,742 497,178
November* 351,158 91,182 30,429 472,769

Edmonton International Airport (EIA) served 472,769 passengers in November 2009, a decrease of 5.2 per cent over November 2008.

[Johnny Aussie]

AC has "transferred" the additional 2 frequencies to YVR again like they did summer 2009.

YEG will now see daily YEG-LHR instead of 9 weekly per the prelim schedules.

[240glt]

I see that prequalifications are out for the new airport office and control tower at the ECA

2009-E2068 REQUEST FOR TRADE PRE-QUALIFICATION - EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - COMBINED OFFICE BUILDING & CONTROL TOWER
Subscribe

City:
NISKU
Date Posted:
17/12/2009
Gen Close Date:
20/01/2010
Addendum:

[Coldrsx]

Edmonton-Newark to be announced shortly?