[Airboy]

Went through central hall on Friday with my wife, on our way to TO. she loves it and after comparing the photos above with what is presently being used we have to say YEG is leaps and bounds ahead of TO terminal 1 for passenger comfort. Had a 2 hour wait in TO last night and felt that TO had as much as YEG for amenities and they are a lot bigger so you can imagine the lack of comfort when flights are delayed.

[Clearshades]

Concur in full. I want one.

OMG! Me t(wo)o.. Hanged as; on coffee table under glass; wall partitioned. What a great peace for conversation. Anyone know who the artist is? Sorry for being off topic, but can you blame me?

[Shodan]

Airport wing takes sunny flight forward
Managers have invested $1M in five outstanding artworks for new section

David Staples
Edmonton Journal

Wednesday, February 01, 2012

First impressions are crucial for a city, yet for decades one of our main gateways to the outside world, the Edmonton International Airport, was drab and cramped. The airport was somewhat functional but thoroughly uninviting. It felt as if it had been designed by folks who specialize in Quonset construction and run by folks who specialize in herding feedlot cattle.

But now, with its wide open, sunny and charming new wing for American and international flights, Edmonton takes a step forward.

Airport managers have invested $1 million in five outstanding art-works for the new wing. The wing is paid for with all of those airport improvement fees (now $25 a pop) travellers have been charged over the years and has a total cost $670 mil-lion. It will open in stages, starting with an American departures lounge on Feb. 11, then an international and domestic arrivals section next fall, says Traci Bednard, the airport's communications vice-president...

dstaples@edmontonjournal.com
© Edmonton Journal 2012

Copyright © 2012 CanWest Interactive, a division of CanWest MediaWorks Publications, Inc.. All rights reserved.
CanWest Interactive, a division of CanWest MediaWorks Publications, Inc.. All rights reserved.

http://www2.canada.com/components/print.aspx?id=76a3fbd0-6ab6-4fb7-a48c-161ebd2a0f7b&sponsor=

[Clearshades]

Concur in full. I want one.

Edmonton has a very talented pool of artists of all genre. In the past, we had to move away from our home to attempt any endeveour of such- myself included. Thank you EIA for supporting us! On an off note, thanks to all forumers for taking to SSP and discussing all issues of our city- including uploading pictures-etc. I definitely lived vicariously through all of you during my years away from home- many times homesick thinking of family, friends, and the ambience of our city in general.:cheers::tup::worship:

[Doug_Cgy]

WOW! Looking good YEG!

[dansk]

Interesting, yesterday I had to fly Iah-YYc-Yeg because of meeting a co-worker in Calgary. I broke my own rule, but it was the only option. But the interesting fact was that most of the flight from YYC_YEG was connecting from the IAH flight because the 245 flight is the time to leave the city. About 20% of the plane was then heading from YEG to Fort Mac. Again interesting. So then as I sat there I started to think how the 230 flight out of IAH to YEG was going to hurt that connecting flight as most would fly Continental...that was until I checked and noticed that AC is NOT codesharing on the afternoon flight out of IAH to YEG...WHAT???!!!

[cyeg66]

^AC's loss, UA's gain. Oh well, everyone surprised by this (provided you're correct) please raise your hand......:no:

[Clearshades]

Interesting, yesterday I had to fly Iah-YYc-Yeg because of meeting a co-worker in Calgary. I broke my own rule, but it was the only option. But the interesting fact was that most of the flight from YYC_YEG was connecting from the IAH flight because the 245 flight is the time to leave the city. About 20% of the plane was then heading from YEG to Fort Mac. Again interesting. So then as I sat there I started to think how the 230 flight out of IAH to YEG was going to hurt that connecting flight as most would fly Continental...that was until I checked and noticed that AC is NOT codesharing on the afternoon flight out of IAH to YEG...WHAT???!!!

We'll let this one slide this time lol! Sometimes business dictate the procedure; I'm sure everyone understands.

Did you by chance speak to some of the people whom con't on with YEG-Fort during your flight and told them about the additonal flights? I only ask for the purpose of making sure they know about it- but i'm sure they will know eventually through bookings in future transitions.

Nevertheless, that is great to hear!

[dansk]

There is no connections available to Fort Mac from IAH at that time of day without a code share. My only guess is that a codeshare on that route has been requested, but it hasn't been approved yet. I remember this happening when they started the ORD routes as well.

[dansk]

Update: Codeshhare is now available as of Monday morning. YEG is now the primary connection for ymm traffic around 230 out of IAh

[dansk]

Westjet starting ORD to YYC and YVR in may.

[Coldrsx]

Another swing and a miss

[hilman]

They usually start new routes from YYC, YVR or YYZ with us getting it afterwards. It's not the end of the world as we already have 2 or 3 flights a day to ORD on United but more choices are always welcome.

[dansk]

Your right hilman! It will lower the ual prices from YEG as well hopefully as flights are running about 800on united most days.

[Clearshades]

Another swing and a miss
Strike 1; come on big guy, you can do it! Hit papa that big homer!!!

[Bigtime]

WestJet employees approve creation of regional airline
Calgary-based airline profit dips but tops expectations

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5245/5287031956_424c266968_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimeaa/5287031956/)
Westjet Ops (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimeaa/5287031956/) by BigtimeAa (http://www.flickr.com/people/bigtimeaa/), on Flickr

Calgary-based WestJet Airlines Ltd said Wednesday the majority of its employees have approved the creation of a short-haul regional airline.

Canada's second-largest airline said 91 percent of employees backed the idea of the new business, which would serve new cities and increase revenue.

“The opportunity presented to WestJetters has been very well received and I thank them for their input and consideration in this important matter,” said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet chief executive, in a statement.

WestJet said on Wednesday its quarterly earnings dipped in the fourth quarter but the result topped expectations for Canada’s second-largest air carrier as revenue jumped.

Earnings dipped to $35.6 million, or 26 Canadian cents a share, from $37.2 million, or 26 Canadian cents, in the same period last year.

Analysts, on average, had forecast earnings of 20 Canadian cents a share, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

Revenue increased nearly 13 per cent to $781.5 million.

WestJet, which may launch the short-haul service as early as 2013 with a fleet of about 40 turboprops, said it will now ask for proposals from Bombardier Inc, for its Q400 NextGen plane, and ATR, a joint venture of aerospace group EADS and Italian defence group Finmeccanica, for its ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/WestJet+employees+approve+creation+regional+airline/6119674/story.html#ixzz1lnoQQ2bE

[240glt]

...... ummmm, ok... and in what way will this affect YEG ?

[oiler-dude]

...... ummmm, ok... and in what way will this affect YEG ?

New flights I would imagine.

[hilman]

I would think more routes and frequencies to smaller centers in Alberta and BC which may funnel flights to YEG.

[Rocket252]

It may be the case of all the flights funnelling to Calgary.

Lets not get too excited

[hilman]

Why would they do that Rocket? I think they want to either get new passengers from smaller cities that they don't currently service or want to use smaller planes on the shorter/smaller routes to free up the 737's for the longer/bigger routes. I could see this happening to the YEG-YYC route which would increase the freqency (same absolute number as the planes are smaller). How about you don't get so negative until we know more?

[Clearshades]

It may be the case of all the flights funnelling to Calgary.

Lets not get too excited
No one is exciting anything but asserting hypothesizing; why would they funnel people to Calgary with their regionional divission? That is what they are currently doing at the moment; so why would they establish something new to repeat?

[dansk]

I agree Clearshades, I think this will be good for YEG, YYC, and YVR. I think we'll see more competition on routes with Air Canada from each of of the two triangles in Canada. I think over all this is going to be a good thing for Edmonton in general. I do think EIA is going to have to expand their North Piers sooner than later to adjust for these new aircraft. I see WS using YEG to funnel from the North, Northern BC, Northern Alberta to YEG on these smaller aircraft and then on to their 737. Fact is WS is not getting rid of their 737 and all their 737 are not going to work out of YYZ and YVR, I'm sure they would rather move some of those 737 on thinner routes on to future expansion routes that they couldn't serve. Right now they are using all their aircraft on routes. I think this year WS is "only" bringing on 3 new 737's, next year if they introduce the Props, that is going to free up quite a few planes on routes ... My guess.

Anyone flying out to the States this Saturday?? I'm leaving soon, can't wait to see the second part of the expansion.

[240glt]

Flying to Mazatlan via Kelowna tomorrow at 8am... looking forward to seeing how things are shaping up out there.. won't be seeing the inside of the US terminal unfortunately

[Airboy]

Medical flights to Edmonton Garrison
Alberta, Ottawa in talks to route medical flights to Edmonton Garrison
World’s fourth-longest runways could end controversy over closure of City Centre Airport


http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Alberta+Ottawa+talks+route+medical+flights+Edmonton+Garrison/6121672/story.html

Sounds like a good Idea. But does this mean we still get the Medivac centre at YEG

[Jasper and one o nin]

^ isnt there buildings constructed on that runway?

[MalcolmTucker]

^ Wouldn't need the entire length.

[Coldrsx]

^^no

^true

but if you wrecka my track, i wrecka your face

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x164/coldrsx/namao/DSC_0704.jpg
(http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x164/coldrsx/namao/DSC_0704.jpg)

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x164/coldrsx/misc%20photos/DSC_0670-1.jpg

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x164/coldrsx/misc%20photos/DSC_0672.jpg

[Rocket252]

Why would they do that Rocket? I think they want to either get new passengers from smaller cities that they don't currently service or want to use smaller planes on the shorter/smaller routes to free up the 737's for the longer/bigger routes. I could see this happening to the YEG-YYC route which would increase the freqency (same absolute number as the planes are smaller). How about you don't get so negative until we know more?

I am seeing it as a continuation of the current hub system done by AC and WJ to cities like Van and Calgary coupled with the fact that WJ has created partnerships with KLM and other international carriers. they need passengers from somewhere and I believe the smaller planes will continue to feed the larger hubs - I hope I am wrong but I do not see it changing.

Just look at the latest announcements by WJ on their larger planes. Even through we have a bright shiny new air terminal not one extra new route has been given to YEG. Its all about business and getting the people to where they need to be to fill the planes.

AC has been the worst for Edmonton - Westjet not too bad but I still don't see them getting away from their hub based philosophy

[hilman]

The new terminal isn't even open yet :koko:

[Rocket252]

Announcements are made well in advance and considering the majority of the new airport is opening up on sat not a peep so far.

[hilman]

I guess you are right, we will never get a new route :shrug:

[Rocket252]

Your right

Never again:koko:

[hilman]

Your doom and gloom is unfounded and tiresome, leave that for C2E please.

[MalcolmTucker]

Announcements are made well in advance and considering the majority of the new airport is opening up on sat not a peep so far.

I guess you are right, we will never get a new route :shrug:
:rolleyes: Everyone knows the province will announce high speed rail tomorrow and effectively kill YEG. Rocket252 is just showing excellent foresight!:cool:

[Rogie]

New EIA expansion video on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_FtDkQuP_A&feature=player_embedded#!

[Rocket252]

Your doom and gloom is unfounded and tiresome, leave that for C2E please.

No doom or gloom. Just the facts.

No significant route announcements in some time despite many thinking that the new terminal will produce some.

I hope I am wrong and If we do get some In the next few weeks I would be the happiest person on this thread.

[Rocket252]

:rolleyes: Everyone knows the province will announce high speed rail tomorrow and effectively kill YEG. Rocket252 is just showing excellent foresight!:cool:

I was hoping for Red Deer to have a Huge airport supported by high speed rail from Edm and Cal;)

[LO 044]

I don't have any stats but i would be curious to see what percentage of passengers fly business class from YEG relative to YYC. I would think that YYC has more business passengers and this is one of the many reasons that AC hubs through Calgary. But WS has no business class so should their flight schedule not reflect a 50 / 50 split between Calgary and Edmonton? With that question i would also be curious what percentage of flights WS flies out of Edmonton relative to Calgary. It definitely doesn't seem to be a 50 / 50 split.

[Rocket252]

I would be more curious knowing how many routes are given to a city based on economic or political(competative) reasons.

[MalcolmTucker]

I don't have any stats but i would be curious to see what percentage of passengers fly business class from YEG relative to YYC. I would think that YYC has more business passengers and this is one of the many reasons that AC hubs through Calgary. But WS has no business class so should their flight schedule not reflect a 50 / 50 split between Calgary and Edmonton? With that question i would also be curious what percentage of flights WS flies out of Edmonton relative to Calgary. It definitely doesn't seem to be a 50 / 50 split.
Beyond business which does help yields for sure, I think people over look the extra traffic being the gateway for Banff brings far too often when comparing the flights to Calgary and Edmonton. Every little bit helps.

[dansk]

Interesting sidenote, UA is reducing IAH-YYC to 2x daily from 3x daily starting in May. AC still has 4 flights a day I believe.

[s211]

I think people over look the extra traffic being the gateway for Banff brings far too often when comparing the flights to Calgary and Edmonton. Every little bit helps.

In several airports, I've seen gates for Calgary flights listed as Calgary/Banff. Influence bigger than we appreciate, I'd say.

[dansk]

While Banff is a huge draw the marketing of the flight on a departure screen is not filling the plan more. Its the actual marketing of Banff before people buy the ticket that is important. Jasper needs a good fresh coat of paint. Sure you can keep restrictions on developments strict but for people on holidays need more options in jasper than what is there.

[Coldrsx]

Jasper needs another ski hill or 2.

[Coldrsx]

This will help

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Feds+approve+Jasper+glacier+walk/6126714/story.html

[dansk]

Yes it will, I was thinking more along the lines of rooms available per night. Jasper has the extreme of JPL which is amazing to the run of the mill basic hotels that are packed. It would be nice to see the Feds' approve a few more hotels for the city of Jasper of the resort style.

[Hallsy's Toupee]

^^ Great news. The Jasper BANANAs are worse than the river valley BANANAs.

[Coldrsx]

Jasper really needs another ski hill to be attractive. I know many an Edmontonian who rarely set foot in Jasper, but hit Banff/LL monthly.

[Bigtime]

Great news about the Glacier walk, an excellent project that will bring a lot of added value to the park. Heck it will probably be the reason I finally go up and visit!

[LO 044]

Beyond business which does help yields for sure, I think people over look the extra traffic being the gateway for Banff brings far too often when comparing the flights to Calgary and Edmonton. Every little bit helps.

I definitely do not disagree with you. It is funny how many times i have mentioned tourism as a factor and then someone says it is busines and cargo that is more important. In terms of the most recent population census, Edmonton Metro and Calgary Metro are equal and this is why i ask why the difference in flights.

The only thing with tourism is that i would put this YYC / YEG discrepancy more to do with international flights (and i don't mean intercontinental) but is WestJet's flights from Palm Springs, Orlando and even Los Angeles to YYC and YEG really based on Banff or Jasper tourism? I wouldn't think so.

As for Jasper, i believe this is a lost cause. The people there want there little town to stay a little town. But i was shocked when i went skiing there recently and saw how many stores (this isn't even restaurants) shut down at 6pm. The place is a ghost town in the evening. The tourists that would / do enjoy Jasper are few and far between and it is quite evident how few out of province tourists Jasper actually attracts.

[dansk]

I'm sure this would change if they had a resort of two approved somewhere around the city. Don't need to change it into Banff, but a little more in that direction would be nice.

[Hallsy's Toupee]

New development doesn't have to be right in Jasper. I'd like to see their version of Canmore and Kananaskis. Hinton should move to something like that and not just be a mining/forestry town.

[dansk]

If I remember correctly AC summer route adjustments should be announced in 2 weeks.

[s211]

New development doesn't have to be right in Jasper. I'd like to see their version of Canmore and Kananaskis. Hinton should move to something like that and not just be a mining/forestry town.

Speaking of which, what ever happened to Kananaskis North?

[Johnny Aussie]

Interesting sidenote, UA is reducing IAH-YYC to 2x daily from 3x daily starting in May. AC still has 4 flights a day I believe.

Actually CO/UA remains 3 daily. UA and CO are in the middle of cross fleeting. So CO metal is flying twice daily, while UA is flying 1 daily. If you get this info from the OAG updates on airliners.net, take this info with a grain of salt. It may show a UA route go from 3 daily to 1, but in actual fact, CO may be picking up the 2 as is the case for YYC-IAH. Each airline also updates in different time periods so one change may be reflected this week, while the other the following week.

Also, AC is remaining at 3 daily - no change there.

[dansk]

Ha you're right! Good to see them starting to merge operations.

[Rogie]

Edmonton International Airport
Passenger Statistics for January 2012

Highlights
¨ Overall 532,549 passengers
¨ Domestic 377,652 passengers
¨ Transborder 103,784 passengers
¨ International 51,113 passengers
¨ Rolling 12 Month 6,319,739 passengers

Growth%
¨ Overall 8.7%
¨ Domestic 8.8%
¨ Transborder 11.0%
¨ International 3.9%
¨ Rolling 12 Month 3.7%

[hilman]

Looks good, thanks for the info :cheers:

[Jasper and one o nin]

Edmonton International Airport

Passenger Statistics for January 2012



Highlights

¨ Overall 532,549 passengers

¨ Domestic 377,652 passengers

¨ Transborder 103,784 passengers

¨ International 51,113 passengers

¨ Rolling 12 Month 6,319,739 passengers



Growth%

¨ Overall 8.7%

¨ Domestic 8.8%

¨ Transborder 11.0%

¨ International 3.9%

¨ Rolling 12 Month 3.7%

[bkd]

Great numbers. Here's to hoping they stay that strong.

[Coldrsx]

Huge numbers

[CMD UW]

Huge numbersJeeesus

[cyeg66]

:eek: Wasn't expecting those.....gotta be honest. Can't wait to see how YYC did. 1-2%? if that.

[dansk]

Unless our domestic numbers are up because more people connecting in Calgary because flights are full...ha

Honestly I can say for my company business has now surpassed the height of the last boom, and we're big and we're feeding people between here at IAH daily. We joke if you need to meet some one schedule a meeting at IAH. A few years ago we all flew through YYC or DEN to get to IAH, nice having the route finally.

[Hallsy's Toupee]

International Airport's new U.S. terminal open for business

http://www.630ched.com/Channels/Reg/NewsLocal/Story.aspx?ID=1653522

There was a little more fanfare than usual when a flight, bound for Denver, took off from the Edmonton International Airport Saturday morning.

That's because it was the first flight to use the EIA's new U.S. terminal.

It's part of the airport's massive, $1-billion, five-year expansion project. The new terminal will allow the EIA to accommodate an extra roughly 3-million passengers each year.

It includes the new Central Hall, which is home to 34 new shops and services, in addition to the U-S departure lounge.

The overall project will wrap up in early 2013, but before that there will also be a new Canada customs area, new NAV Canada control tower and Marriott Hotel.

[hilman]

Newly expanded terminal opens to record-breaking US growth

The glitz and glamour, the nuts and the bolts of opening day

February 11, 2012 (Edmonton, AB) – Passengers flying to the US today were treated to a speedier, comfier and easier experience as EIA opened its new US Departures area, which is three times the size of the previous US departures area. The newly expanded terminal is opening just as EIA set new US records with nine per cent passenger growth over last January, which is six per cent above the previous record set in 2008.

“The timing is perfect as demand for our 12 US non-stop destinations is at unprecedented levels,” says Reg Milley, EIA President and CEO. “People in our community had a vision for a world-class airport, and with today’s opening, we’re a big step closer to making the airport a destination in and of itself.”

The new US Departures adds about 11,000 sq. metres of new space, part of the 43,000 sq. metres in total added by the new terminal. The new US Departures lounge features:

An expanded US Customs and Border Protection area four times larger than the original

Six gates dedicated to US flights

Four brand-name stores and four restaurants

Workstations and lounge seats with plug-ins

The first two-storey Plaza Premium Lounge (common use)

Cushioned play areas for toddlers

Hands-free video game station for older kids

Three art pieces – Kopperscape; Old Man Mountain with Great Mother Bear; Everything Flows, Nothing Stands Still

http://www.flyeia.com/news/general/newly_expanded_terminal_opens_to_record-breaking_us_growth_?navID=11901

[Hallsy's Toupee]

http://www.630ched.com/Channels/Reg/NewsLocal/Story.aspx?ID=1653551

WestJet sees opportunity in new airport terminal
1:35pm
Matthew Bisson
2/11/2012

The Edmonton International Airport's new U.S. terminal, which opened for business Saturday morning, could spell big news for those looking for more direct flights to the United States.

"West Jet has just signed co-chair agreements to link into Delta and American's networks down in the U.S," says Bob Cummings, West Jet's Executive Vice-President of Sales, Marketing and Guest Experience.

That, coupled with the spacious new terminal, should be great for business. "In the last three years, this is as good as I have felt about the economy and in particular the amount of corporate travel and commerce," adds Cummings. "So West Jet looking down to U.S. business destinations, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, New York, we're going to be sharpening our pencils and looking at those types of opportunities."

Cummings feels that the expansion will help decongest the entire airport, especially during peak travel times.

[Jaws]

^ Good news. Here's hoping for EWR. "Co-chair" agreement??

[Jasper and one o nin]

nice reporting CHED! Only they could mix "code share" and "co-chair"

[Rocket252]

http://www.630ched.com/Channels/Reg/NewsLocal/Story.aspx?ID=1653551

Lots of talk but no routes yet.

Even a seasonal to New York would have been nice from Westjet.

[EdmTrekker]

Lots of talk but no routes yet. Even a seasonal to New York would have been nice from Westjet.

Indeed - but who will supply the metal...if WJ into EWR on a code share with Delta this will impact the traffic on the MSP route that Delta fly and we may very well lose a flight a day as much of that traffic connects to NYC and to Florida. That said WJ might step up and provide a daily non-stop to Miami or Orlando. Just saying we may have to horse trade until traffic grows to justify maintaining capacity on the MSP route. Same story for UA into Chicago if it is UA metal into LGA or EWR. I wish it were JFK as that would open up the international gateways to us with a one stop connection JFK still has way more intl. flights than EWR..

Anyone have a contrary argument to this? I would like to hear the reasoning.

[dansk]

Continental has just updated their schedule, looks like the YEG-IAH flight is now 2x daily past their original test period, and is permanent.

[hilman]

Great news, keep it up YEG!

[cyeg66]

This is a significant addition, seat-wise. It's the equivalent of 2 to 2 1/2 CRJ7's more per day. Just one RJ7 would've gotten my attention a couple years ago when airlines were too busy trimming schedules rather than making money.

[EdmTrekker]

So I had my first exp using the new US area yesterday. Some thoughts and questions in no particulat order:

-it is goodly walk from the US checkin counters to the bag drop area - will the counters be relocated so they are closer to the bag drop?
-after the walk through the now boarded up area to the checked bag drop off belts, what puzzles me is no one asked to see my boarding pass or tags for the amount of luggage I loaded onto the belt (1 bag) but it could have been 2...with some device etc. So the bag went down the belt to lower level of YEG without a check that it was a tagged bag or the right number of bags (scary)
-Nexus was not operating...and everyone stood in the same lines for security screening - whats the point of having the Nexus card is your now being delayed at screening without a fast lane? All the security staff said they had no idea what was going on or why it was not operational. The people with Nexus were peeved. I have been using Nexus for years, and it fast tracked you before security, now it is only for use after security, right before US customs. I did see there was a set of machines that could/should have been used for Nexus - but if it is only going to be used in the morning now when it really is busy this defeats the use of Nexus for all other times. Counter productive. Even the guys at Security and US Customs said it was stupid and Nexus holders should complain.
-US customs area nice and functional - but it was before.
-The US departures area is a big improvement - but I do miss my Molson pub - a real sports bar atmosphere and Wings is not. Too bad really, Molsons was a cool place.
-Food choices full of carbs carbs carbs. Few items that are low calorie or low carb at any of the 3 places offering food - obviously EIA and their service provider are short sighted as to healthy food options (I googled the calorie and carb counts on Quizno and Chilis express sites but the YEG offerings do not provide the low cal/carb options available elsewhere) and I could not find info on Wings. One look at the menu and I realized there was nothing low cal/low carb.
-The Premium Lounge I checked out is very nice and right now has a 2 for 1 pass for the first visit for $29.00. I was alone so did not use it this time, but will in future and will plan to arrive early so I can enjoy.
-Shopping is somewhat of a disappointment - lacks a real bookstore. There is a place that sells a bit of everything, but it is not a bookstore and has limited selection.
-Duty Free is pretty small stuff...and the walk through it is annoying - IMO it is poorly designed and I say that being a global traveller. I don't want to be greeted by staff as a pull my carry-on through the narrow walkway the curves through the DF - that is like a timeshare pitch in a trapped alleyway...who the hell thought this was a good idea for the small little DF should be spanked.A full, uncover a large aisle of cigarettes on full display (I thought there were laws about having this shielded from view of underage persons?)
-I see the planning for future gates exists in 2 areas, before the Premium Lounge - but I question whether a dual bridge can be used now that the lounge is there...likely enough room for 1 plane only, and at the end where their are counters - which could be for future building expansion or simply a bridge, but this causes me to wonder about the area that wraps around headed back toward the central terminal which could also be used for a hotel or future gates to be constructed, assuming there is room for an apron to be constructed...someone in the know might comment on this please
-I am curious about the gates down from 76 on the other side of the glass wall..gates 70,72,74 (I think) that are ready for passengers, I assume these are for international flights or potentially could be for US flights if the glass wall is moved down. It looks like the glass wall folds/retracts into the wall as there is some sort of separate framing that indicates this.
-last but not least, I am puzzled as to the location of the Starbucks and the Artiza? women's kiosk as they block the views of the runways and obscure lighting, and appear to me to be in the way. Viewing from the opposite side, they appear as awkward spots from what otherwise may have been panoramic views through the curved curtain wall.
-all that said, this is a definite improvement, and small as it is, it has the clean, open feel with some "essential" services, however hopefully they will develop some additional stores as they appear to have room before duty free
-I wish EIA would not talk about completion of the expansion, and start to set the stage for what will be redevelopment of the older section and ties to the Marriott etc. The public should be told, that the airport will need to continue to evolve to meet the demands of increased traffic and the user experience
-our little airport is growing up :)

[dansk]

Yeah it looks like the flight is going from a 737-500 series to a 737-700 series Starting in April now; the other flight remains a -800 series.

ET, agree that the authority has to be careful in ensuring people realize that the airport construction and redevelopment is not complete. I think they are doing the advertising really well. Funny how they are highlighting the moving side walks so much (and rightfully so), people associate those little things as "big airport" features. Hopefully once they complete the project under budget they will be able to apply that 400 million they saved into redesign on the North terminal. I really like their design plans for the North Terminal in the next stage of development.

It is going to be an interesting year for YEG, I really think we're going to see a big jump to start pushing the airport to the 7 million stage really quick as levels of business in Edmonton are surpassing what we saw in the boom 5 years ago and the city has over 125000 more people calling the city home. It would be interesting to get some stats on how many flights 1 person draws on average to the city typically across Canada. For example 1 person would draw maybe on average 1 personal/business trips per year, 1 visitor, .1 business client (via retail buying habits)....

The airport looks great, and now its time to continue the work on the "new north terminal". Traci and the bunch over there most be in good shape by the way with the airport being 1.2km's long now you could get a few km's of excerise a day! haha

[dansk]

Another note, the second flight is also now daily, before it was only 6x weekly.

[hilman]

Nice, that is an additional 868 seats per week (3,720/month or 45,260/year).

[cyeg66]

Nice, that is an additional 868 seats per week (3,720/month or 45,260/year).

If they're only counted one-way.

[hilman]

Nice catch, even better :cheers:

[240glt]

Apparently no one thought to keep a spare tire for a 737 at the Mazatlan airport. Oops..... It's gonna be a long trip home

[dansk]

I just got done reading the airport development article on EIA. I am confused by their illustrations, it almost seems like they might start developing the North Terminal right after the completion of 2012, which would make since. The reason I'm consfused is because of the diagrams for Million Passengers a year (MPA) diagrams 9MPA and 12MPA.

[Jasper and one o nin]

^what article?

[dansk]

EIA Masterplan Document on the website.

[bkd]

You're talking about pg. 96 of this (http://corporate.flyeia.com/media/469457/eiamasterplan_2010-2035.pdf) right?

Those expansions are forecast for 12M PAX and 16M PAX.

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg28/scaled.php?server=28&filename=12mab.jpg&res=medium

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg651/scaled.php?server=651&filename=16mc.jpg&res=medium

So... looks like, barring some huge growth over the next few years, the north and south expansion for 12M PAX won't begin for a little bit yet. I'd love to see the original terminal heavily renovated and brought up to spec for the time being though.

[dansk]

Thanks! Interesting that the central pier is gone, also the North terminal looks different, I would not be surprised if they continue with that north expansion between 2014-2017 depending on what Westjet announces with their new airline.

[Coldrsx]

Shame we can't develop more of a T shape than an I

[Hardhatdan]

You're talking about pg. 96 of this (http://corporate.flyeia.com/media/469457/eiamasterplan_2010-2035.pdf) right?

Those expansions are forecast for 12M PAX and 16M PAX.

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg28/scaled.php?server=28&filename=12mab.jpg&res=medium

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg651/scaled.php?server=651&filename=16mc.jpg&res=medium

So... looks like, barring some huge growth over the next few years, the north and south expansion for 12M PAX won't begin for a little bit yet. I'd love to see the original terminal heavily renovated and brought up to spec for the time being though.
How does this work with the hotel locations?

[Coldrsx]

Hotel is just south (east actually) of the blue/blue intersection.

[EdmTrekker]

EJ is reporting LKM adding 2 flights a week from AMS to YYC - making it daily. Perhaps KLM are planning to siphon traffic from AC. Lets hope the AC response is new non-stops from YEG to FRA. That is the best way to ensure traffic stays AC.

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/business/adding+more+flights+Amsterdam+from+Calgary/6192293/story.html

[Johnny Aussie]

^ I wouldn't pay too much attention to this article.

I am from Calgary but even I can see one-sided reporting even here:

The additional capacity being added by KLM is only partially offsetting the losses that have been occurring. The KLM addition is only a 19% increase.

LH flew 6 weekly (daily in 2010) in the summer (not 4 as the article suggests).

AC had 12 weekly flights to LHR in 2010, now only daily (although a 77W now).

As for AC flying larger planes to FRA, yes this is true in the winter, but in the summer this flight remains a 333, so no increase there.

Overall, capacity to Europe will be significantly lower in summer 2012.

Conclusion - I fail to see how this "increased number of flights will funnel tourists from all over Europe into the province."

[codeman9669]

...

I'd love to see the original terminal heavily renovated and brought up to spec for the time being though.


Quoted for truth!!! The original south terminal expansion is a huge step above what is existing in the old north terminal section, even as it sits today. Likewise, the expansion 2012 section is leaps above the earlier south terminal expansion. There is no real flow. Even the signage indicating the gate number differs in each section.

[EdmTrekker]

^ I wouldn't pay too much attention to this article.

I am from Calgary but even I can see one-sided reporting even here:

The additional capacity being added by KLM is only partially offsetting the losses that have been occurring. The KLM addition is only a 19% increase.

LH flew 6 weekly (daily in 2010) in the summer (not 4 as the article suggests).

AC had 12 weekly flights to LHR in 2010, now only daily (although a 77W now).

As for AC flying larger planes to FRA, yes this is true in the winter, but in the summer this flight remains a 333, so no increase there.

Overall, capacity to Europe will be significantly lower in summer 2012.

Conclusion - I fail to see how this "increased number of flights will funnel tourists from all over Europe into the province."

That is a very honest and transparent assessment from you. Much appreciated.

[Jasper and one o nin]

http://www.plaza-network.com/index.php/locations/canada/edmonton.html

[dansk]

This article really shows the numbers on eia; it points out the Edmonton feeds YVR YYC and YYZ with all our flights. Crazy. The ERAA had it simple to brag about growth during the boom years, but honestly anyone can make it rain during those times. Now that we haven't seen any big announcements really since LHR, unless you consider IAH big, we're really back to being a big spoke to YYC. Look at the graphs

http://www.anna.aero/2012/02/29/edmontons-new-us-departures-area-good-for-transborder-traffic-which-grew-8pc-in-2011/

Also try booking anything from the states or anywhere in canada to the north and you get routed through YYC...not yeg...so besides having Canadian North here we are not the gateway to the North in aviations terms. I fly Edmonton first, but it has reached a point where it is getting very pricey considering on average in the past 12 months I have paid 200 more to fly YEG into the states compared to connecting in YYC or YVR.

[bkd]

It really is ridiculous.

I can understand the focus on their hub cities but it's beyond comprehension how AC refuses to even throw us a piece of the bone from time to time.

Regardless, I haven't flown AC in a long time and that won't be changing any time soon.

[dansk]

I'm not even pointing fingers at AC anymore, as I've flown them to LHR now many times and avoided YYC, it's been nice and used their partner UA all the time to fly to the states. However, it will be interesting now that WS is hubbing big time via YYC with its new codeshare with AA. Like I stated ERAA beated its chest through the boom years Look at our growth, look at our stats, once expansion is complete we'll get more flights because of gates being available. I'm a huge supporter of flying out of YEG, but just look at how empty the flight skeds are for departing between 8am-9am...slight problem? Yep.

[LO 044]

Very well said dansk. WS will continue to add flights at YYC, YYZ and YVR. But even look at Air Transat. If we are more of an economy flying city than a businesss flying city than we should get a few more TS flights in the summer time. Even Canada 3000 had better options way back when and i know friends and relatives that used these flights. Where is Martinair, KLM, BA, etc. They could have also flown a few flights per week to YEG. I too am paying more to fly LHR-YEG this summer. The YEG-LHR flights are expensive.

[dansk]

Even Chicago and Houston; I just paid 789$ to fly again to ORD and WS this summer is at 520$. Houston I just flew down this week and I paid 870$, where flying via YYC was 640$. It's time for us to put GOOD pressure, not negative pressure on our authority demanding them to try harder as we need better.