A new commercial air route linking North Bay directly with downtown Toronto launched Monday morning, with the inaugural flight departing from Jack Garland Airport. Propair, a Quebec-based regional carrier with more than 70 years of aviation experience, has begun operating the Rouyn-Noranda – North Bay – Toronto route. Flights will run five days per week, connecting North Bay to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. ‘Connectivity for our community’s needs’ The service arrives at Toronto’s Stolport Fixed Base Operator terminal rather than the main passenger facility, offering what officials describe as a streamlined business-travel experience with faster boarding and personalized service. “Stolport FBO at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is pleased to offer passengers a streamlined, comfortable and efficient connection through the heart of downtown Toronto,” said Nicolas Pappalardo, CEO of Stolport Corporation. “FBOs provide passengers a business-style experience on the ground and right-sized operators like Propair an economically sustainable model on which to reliably schedule service to underserved, rural and northern communities.” Bryan Avery, manager of North Bay Jack Garland Airport, emphasized the service’s importance for local residents. “The North Bay Jack Garland Airport ensures connectivity for our community’s needs – connecting people, places and possibilities,” Avery said. “With Propair as a partner, premier convenient connections are available to more destinations. Simple check-in, comfortable short flights and all the convenience of our community’s airport provides an improved service to Toronto, while also offering the same to Rouyn-Noranda.” ‘Part of your community’ Propair will operate the route using 18-passenger Beechcraft 1900D aircraft. The schedule includes early morning departures from North Bay and evening return flights, allowing business travellers to conduct meetings in Toronto and return the same day. The carrier said that it will offer snacks and beer on the evening flights. Justin Lemieux, Propair’s general manager, said the company seeks long-term relationships with the communities it serves. “Our goal is to become part of your community, not just for a few months, but for many years to come,” Lemieux said. “We know that strong air connectivity is essential to a thriving business community. Growth brings jobs, opportunity and a stronger local economy. But to get there, we need your support. We need passengers on board so that Propair’s wings can carry you to even more destinations with more frequent service in the future.” ‘Northern Ontario is not remote’ Warren Askew, Vice President-Airport, Toronto Port Authority, which owns and operates Billy Bishop Airport, framed the new connection in broader economic terms. “Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport offers something unique – direct, efficient access to the economic heart of Canada,” Askew said. “For northern Ontario communities that means shorter travel times, easier business connections and a smoother path for entrepreneurs, students, health care travellers and families who rely on fast, reliable transportation.” Askew added the route signals that northern communities deserve equal access to economic centres. “This connection is more than a convenience, it’s a catalyst,” he said. “It supports economic development, strengthens regional equity and reinforces the message that northern Ontario is not remote – it is essential. By linking North Bay directly to downtown Toronto, we’re closing distances, opening doors and ensuring that North Bay remains a vibrant, competitive and connected part of our province’s future.” Propair is based in Rouyn-Noranda, an approximately 30 minutes flight from North Bay.
