Business View Magazine - Mar 2024

challenges persist for cargo operators like North Star Air. Collaborative efforts are essential to address industry-wide workforce shortages, ensuring the continued viability of regional aviation operations. Serving the public’s aviation needs is multifaceted, encompassing the provision of jet fuel and avgas and catering to various aircraft requirements. The breadth of services offered underlines the airport’s commitment to meeting diverse needs within the aviation community. Amidst these operational considerations, the discussion pivots towards cargo flights, particularly considering the evolving landscape shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 RESILIENCE Reflecting on the past year and a half, marked by the peak of the pandemic and subsequent transitions, the question arises: has the trajectory of cargo flights shifted in response to these changes? Surprisingly, Kapuskasing Airport’s cargo operations remained constant amidst the turbulence of COVID-19. In fact, rather than experiencing a downturn, cargo flights witnessed an uptick during the pandemic’s peak, attributed to the heightened demand for essential goods in remote northern regions. Robitaille states, “Cargo flights were not affected by COVID; we saw an increase during COVID because our northern neighbors were shut down.” However, as the pandemic wanes, the stability of cargo flights persists, showcasing resilience in the face of shifting circumstances. While general aviation experiences a notable surge in activity post-COVID, cargo operations maintain a steady course, unaffected by fluctuations in external conditions. This strength speaks to cargo transportation’s fundamental importance in facilitating vital resource flow to remote communities, regardless of broader economic or public health challenges. While Kapuskasing Airport’s internal operations remain stable with a dedicated team, challenges persist within cargo carriers like North Star. Despite aspirations for growth, the shortage of pilots and ground crews poses a significant barrier to expansion. The realities of the labor shortage emphasize the complexities facing the aviation industry and highlight the ongoing need for strategic workforce planning and recruitment efforts. In navigating these challenges, Kapuskasing Airport remains persistent in its commitment to providing essential services to the community while adapting to the dynamic realities of the aviation landscape. With a focus on stability and resilience, the airport stands prepared to weather uncertainties and continue serving as a vital lifeline for Northern Ontario’s aviation needs. CHARTING A COURSE FOR GROWTH Kapuskasing Airport has recently completed a significant project to renovate the terminal roof during the summer of 2023, with a price tag of over $100,000.With this renovation in place, Kapuskasing Airport anticipates smooth operations for the next three decades, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing journey of maintenance and enhancement. Shifting the focus to training, discussions arise Cargo to Canada’s North Our Freight Division is your trusted leader for cargo delivery in Northern Ontario, Northern Manitoba, Nunavut and beyond. Big freight or small parcel, you can depend on our experience to deliver on- me! THOMPSON WINNIPEG RED LAKE PICKLE LAKE SIOUX LOOKOUT THUNDER BAY KAPUSKASING Toll free1.844.633.6294 cargo@northstarair.ca MORE INFO! Proud to Support Kapuskasing Airport! ICE STRIP LANDINGS BULK FUEL DELIVERY LAST MINUTE SHIPMENTS LARGE/OVERSIZE FREIGHT 180 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03