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Sunday flights to resume in Prince Albert

Rise Air Aircraft in Prince Albert

Rise Air is pleased to announce the return of Sunday flights between Prince Albert and the northern communities of Fond du Lac, Stony Rapids/Black Lake and Wollaston Lake/Hatchet Lake after an absence of four years.

Flights will begin on May 5, 2025, and are available to be booked from today via riseair.ca or by calling our reservations team on 1-800-667-9356.

"I know first-hand from listening to our passengers that they will be relieved and delighted that we are going to be open on Sundays," said Brian Ertman, Prince Albert Base Manager, Snowbird Aviation Services, Rise Air’s sister company. "Growing our ability to help people get to and from appointments, connect with family and travel for work is a positive step forward."

"We've maintained a positive dialogue with the City of Prince Albert, and we appreciate their leadership in reopening the airport on Sundays," said Derek Nice, President and CEO, Rise Air.

“Our Airport Operations team, led by the Airport Coordinator and Airport Manager, has made important improvements to enhance efficiency and expand operating hours”, said Jeff Da Silva, Director of Public Works. “These changes reflect our commitment to rethinking how we deliver services, which wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of the entire airport team. We look forward to continuing to improve Airport services in the future.”

“Prince Albert is emerging as the hub for Northern Saskatchewan. The expansion of Rise Air’s services and our involvement as a stakeholder in this initiative show that industry and government can work together to accomplish substantial achievements,” said Mayor Bill Powalinsky.

Prince Albert Grand Council Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte expressed his gratitude to the City of Prince Albert and Rise Air. “Our member communities in the Athabasca Basin have been asking for this Sunday service. They are happy to see its return.’

Santa delivered once again

The 24th annual Santa in the North has delivered smiles across Saskatchewan's north.

Every child received a gift bag containing a book from an Indigenous author or illustrator, a healthy snack-a traditional mandarin-and a candy cane. For children from daycare to elementary school, additional age-appropriate gifts were included in the bags.

Last year, we committed to having Santa attend all schools; however, bad weather prevented our visit to the Hatchet Lake community. This year, we fulfilled that promise. In addition, the Saskatchewan Roughriders Foundation participated in Uranium City, allowing the players to meet the children and deliver mental wellness and literacy programming to all locations.

Rise Air wishes to thank the following partners for joining us to make Christmas in the North even more special: Graham Construction, Orano, Cameco Corporation, Athabasca Basin Development, Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, Points Athabasca Contracting LP, the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation, Saskatoon Co-op, Fermi Exploration, KPCL Dirt Movers (Kelly Panteluk Construction Ltd.), Uranium City Bulk Fuel, our media partner, Eagle Feather News, and our colleagues at Snowbird Aviation Services and Rise Air.

Literacy provides a lasting gift through the Indigenous-authored and illustrated books given to the children. Athabasca Basin Development, Optek Solutions, Team Drilling, Flyer Electric, Points Athabasca Contracting LP, Points North Group of Companies, Athabasca Basin Security, Long Lake Insurance, and Arctic Beverages LP collaborated to make this happen.

Additional books and gift bags were donated to the school libraries.

Thank you to the following volunteers who made the journey north over the past two weeks: Kian Schaffer-Baker, Jorgen Hus, Peter Godber, Charbel Dabire, Morgan Fleury, Karina Peterson, Ibinabo Abule, Raphael Olaniyi, Bella McMahon, Allison Strong, Natania Bartlett, Anne Gent, and Noah Callaghan.

Dan Gold, Director of Marketing and Stakeholder Relations, stated, "While the weather forced us to change the schedule, Santa, the Roughriders, and volunteers made it to all destinations, delivering more than 1,540 gift bags, reflecting the increase in the number of excited children meeting Santa on the day." Gold continued, "We couldn't do this without our amazing partners, sponsors, volunteers, and, importantly, the schools themselves for supporting this annual event."

To our new sponsors and existing partners, you have made a real difference by bringing smiles to children across the Athabasca Basin. We look forward to Santa in the North 2025 and are delighted that several organizations have already expressed their support for next year. As we approach the holiday season, we give thanks to those who work with us to make Santa in the North a success.

Mr. S. Claus added, "We had a wonderful time with all the children. Their energy and happiness were the fuel we needed to bring our 'A-game'. I learned that phrase from my new friends from Regina-Go Riders."

There were many pictures given to Santa this year and here are just a few!

Rise Air’s Tracy Young-McLean named one of Canada’s Most Admired CPCOs™ for 2024.

Tracy Young-McLean

Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services are delighted to announce that Tracy Young-McLean, our Vice President and CHRO has been named one of Canada’s Most Admired CPCOs™ for 2024.

This recognition honours leaders who drive people and culture-centered initiatives to ensure their organizations attract and retain the high-performance leaders and team members needed to foster culture and achieve exceptional growth and performance.

“I’m proud of this well-deserved recognition for Tracy and for what she has achieved during a very challenging period for Rise Air, Saskatchewan businesses, and the global airline industry,” said Derek Nice, Rise Air's President and CEO. “Her accomplishments will be well-remembered as we continue to build on the foundations she has laid for our success.”

Tracy’s commitment to fostering a positive culture has been a driving force behind our organization’s success. Her vision and leadership have created an environment where every team member can thrive.

Earlier this year, we announced internally that we will be celebrating Tracy’s retirement at the end of 2024. Next month, we will publicly share news about her successor.

We celebrate this incredible recognition of Tracy, her leadership, and her values, and we will embrace her legacy across Rise Air.

ATR -600 Series Makes Canadian Debut With Rise Air

Rise Air pioneers ATR -600 series entry into Canada

With three new ATR 72-600, Rise Air becomes Canada’s launch customer, boosting its fleet and enhancing year-round remote connections.

ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, is proud to announce that Rise Air, a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned airline providing essential services across Saskatchewan, is upgrading its fleet with three new 68-seat ATR 72-600, becoming the Canadian launch customer for the latest generation ATR -600 series. The first aircraft is a firm order with ATR, set to be delivered by the end of 2025. The company plans to lease two others for delivery in 2026.

ATR’s turboprops are flying in 100 countries, often in challenging conditions, providing vital connectivity to the local communities. They are known for their low operating costs and ability to operate on unpaved and short runways in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -45°C. While earlier generations of the ATR 42 and ATR 72 are operated by Rise Air and eight other Canadian passenger and cargo airlines, totalling over 50 aircraft, this landmark agreement represents a significant milestone for both Rise Air and ATR, bringing the newest version to Canada.

The latest ATR 72-600 is fitted with new PW127XT engines produced by Pratt & Whitney Canada in Montreal, which offer high reliability, lower maintenance costs, and a remarkable 45% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to similar-sized regional jets. The ATR 72-600 also brings an enhanced passenger experience thanks to its modern cabin with large overhead bins, comfortable 18-inch-wide seats, and upgraded air conditioning and heating system. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, increased availability, and improved reliability make it an ideal choice for operators looking to replace ageing fleets.

Derek Nice, President and CEO at Rise Air, said: "We are thrilled to be introducing the ATR 72-600 to Canada, bringing our customers more comfortable, more reliable air service at remote work sites and communities across the north. The ATR 72-600’s outstanding performance and low environmental footprint make it the perfect choice for operating in the diverse and challenging conditions where we operate. We look forward to continuing to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth in the areas we serve."

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, commented: "We are delighted to support Rise Air as they introduce the first ATR 72-600 in Canada, marking a double milestone as it also represents the debut of the -600 series in the country. This agreement not only reinforces the strength of our aircraft in the regional market but also demonstrates the growing interest in the ATR -600 series for markets like Canada, where replacing older aircraft with efficient, high-performance alternatives and enhancing year-round connectivity in extreme weather conditions are crucial. We look forward to working with Rise Air to deliver exceptional service to Canadian communities."

Rise Air’s commitment to the ATR -600 series is the largest investment the airline has made in its 69-year history and is the biggest step to date in its fleet renewal programme. The agreement with ATR represents generational change, positioning Rise Air to operate the most modern regional aircraft fleet in Canada.

Rise Air is a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned airline, operating 25 aircraft, and employing 300 skilled professionals to provide scheduled flights, workforce transportation and medevac services, connecting 27 communities and remote work sites across Saskatchewan’s north to Saskatoon, Prince Albert and beyond. Its affiliate Snowbird Aviation Services provides terminal services, ramp handling, fueling, de-icing and cargo handling for Rise Air and other customers at 12 airports throughout the region.

ABOUT ATR

ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72, the best-selling aircraft in the below 90-seat market segment. The unifying vision of the company is to accelerate sustainable connections for people, communities and businesses, no matter how remote. Flown by some 200 airlines in over 100 countries, ATR aircraft opened 160 new routes in 2023, facilitating the development of territories and enabling access to crucial services like healthcare and education. Thanks to ATR’s focus on continuous innovation and the intrinsic efficiency of the turboprop technology, ATR aircraft are the most advanced, versatile, cost-effective and lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market, emitting 45% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets.

In January 2022, we flew the first-ever commercial aircraft using 100% SAF in both engines. ATR is a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo. Visit us on www.atr-aircraft.com

MEDIA RELATIONS

Charlotte GIURIA

+33 (0)6 80 48 20 96

charlotte.giuria @atr-aircraft.com

Our $100 Christmas Card Colouring Contest

Calling all young artists!

Are you someone who likes to draw or paint? We’re holding a contest to find the design for the 2024 Rise Air Christmas Card. Rise Air is looking for art from children and youth showing the beauty and culture of life in the north of Saskatchewan.

Use a single piece of letter-sized paper in the wide or horizontal orientation. Complete the artwork ready for submission and then on a second piece of paper complete the following details:

Name of the artist.
Age of the artist.
Community name.
Full name of parent or guardian giving consent to enter the contest.
Email address and telephone number of the parent or guardian.

If you have the ability to scan the image and details above, please email the contest entry to communications@riseair.ca (PDF, JPG, PNG format. Maximum file size 6MB) or drop it off at any Rise Air check-in desk across Saskatchewan.

The winner of the contest will receive a $100 VISA gift card and a Rise Air gift pack. There is no cash alternative to this prize. Full terms and conditions below.

RISE AIR COLOURING CONTEST RULES

Rise Air is offering this contest and is referred to as the “Contest Organizers”. By participating in this contest, the person or child’s legal parent/guardian is agreeing to the Contest Rules and Terms and Conditions as outlined below.

CONTEST DATES

The Christmas Card Colouring Contest begins October 4, 2024 and closes at 11:59 pm Central Standard Time on October 30, 2024.

ELIGIBILITY

Contest open to persons ages under 18. Consent from a parent or guardian must be given to validate entries. One (1) entry per person.

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER

Create an original drawing, painting or other form of flat image using one piece of letter-sized paper with the long side along the bottom that can be scanned and submitted to the Contest Organizers. Entries can be scanned and then emailed to communications@riseair.ca or safely dropped off at any Rise Air base.

Do not write on the back of the picture but include a second piece of paper with the following information.

Name of the artist.
Age of the artist.
Community name.
Full name of parent or guardian giving consent to enter the contest.
Email address and telephone number of the parent or guardian.

By entering the contest you agree to let Contest Organizers post your artwork on social media channels, in print on the Christmas cards for public distribution, and within other marketing materials (your name, age and location will be displayed only with your consent) and you accept the terms and conditions of the contest.

Be sure to include with your entry the artist’s name and age, plus a parent or guardian’s phone number, or e-mail address so that winners may be notified. At this point we will also ask for consent to publish the name of the winning artist along with their location.

JUDGING

Entries will be judged at contest end, and $100 prize will be awarded then. Decisions are at the discretion of the Contest Organizers and are subject to change at any time.

We reserve the right to award multiple winners and prizes, or no winners and prizes.

WINNERS & PRIZES

Winners will be notified by email, or phone. The winner will receive a Rise Air gift pack and $100 in the form of a pre-paid VISA gift card Contest ends 11:59 pm Central Standard Time on October 30, 2024, or as otherwise posted on Contest webpage.

GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

By entering the Contest, all entrants agree to be bound by the rules of the contest and release the Contest Organizers and all parties associated with this Contest from any liability with respect to the contest and the redemption of any Prize. Contest Organizers reserve the right to withhold the Prize or disqualify any Contestant’s entry in the event that any Contestant fail or refuse to comply with these contest rules. By entering this contest, Contestants and their legal parent(s) or guardian(s) consent to the Contest Organizers publishing or announcing any Prize winners’ name and photograph(s), in future publicity, without permission or compensation to the Contestant or any other party. The Contest Organizer shall not be held liable if the contestant’s entry is lost or damaged before submission by employees or agents of the Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services. Damaged submissions will not be valid entries.

This shall include unlimited reproduction, publication, use and distribution in all forms and media, and in all manners including advertising, trade, display, editorial, art, video production, exhibitions and website content.

If for any reason, in the opinion of the Contest Organizers, in its sole discretion, the contest is not capable of running as planned or if the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the contest is corrupted or adversely affected, including by reason of infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures or other causes beyond its control, Contest Organizers reserve the right to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest including any method of entry.

All entries become the property of the Contest Organizers and none will be returned.

As per the privacy policy of each of the contest entries, the Contest Organizers do not sell or redistribute any personal information to any third party. All decisions made by the Contest Organizers with respect to the contest will be final.

Contest Organizers will not enter into correspondence with any Contestant except with the selected entrants and at the Contest Organizer’s own initiative. Any inquiries or concerns relating to the contest should be addressed to Rise Air via communications@riseair.ca.

This contest is subject to all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations and is void where prohibited.

INDEMNIFICATION AND RELEASE

By entering the contest and participating in any promotions relating thereto, each entrant agrees to release and hold Sponsor, their respective affiliates, subsidiaries, parent companies, officers, directors, shareholders, employees, agents, and any other companies participating in the design, administration or fulfillment of this sweepstakes and their respective officers, directors, employees, and agents, harmless from any and all losses, rights, claims, injuries, damages, expenses, costs or actions of any kind resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from participation in this sweepstakes or any sweepstakes-related activity, or acceptance, possession, use or misuse of the prize or parts thereof, including without limitation personal injuries, death and property damage and claims based on publicity rights defamation or invasion of privacy.

E&OE October 8, 2024.

Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program

The Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program is a fully-funded initiative to support Indigenous candidates from northern Saskatchewan in becoming professional pilots.

The application phase for the Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program has now closed. All completed applications will be reviewed by the screening committee before shortlisted applicants are invited to interview.

Our mission is to provide candidates with the necessary expertise, hands-on training, and confidence for a successful career, while also making a positive impact on the communities in northern Saskatchewan.

Upon graduation, each student is guaranteed a First Officer position with Rise Air.

The program addresses systemic issues that have limited opportunities for northern residents, particularly Indigenous residents, and women, and creates a pathway to success.

The program will initially target Athabasca Basin residents.

Program graduates will have earned their private and commercial pilot licenses with the following qualifications:

Night rating.
Multi-engine rating.
Instrument rating.
Intermediate Air Transport Rating (IATRA).
King Air type rating or alternatively Twin Otter rating and float rating.

The Dziret’ái pilot training program focuses on student success and job creation by providing skills and education upgrading, pilot training and mentoring and guaranteed jobs as First Officers with Rise Air upon graduation.

In September 2024, fifteen (15) individuals will be selected to participate in the Elevated Skills Program – the fully funded skills and upgrading component of the program from mid-September to December after which ten (10) students will be identified and selected to move into the pilot training program starting January 2025.

We will provide full funding to empower them to complete their Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL) and multi-IFR rating and either King Air or Twin Otter type rating so that they can begin their pilot journey with Rise Air.

The pilot training program will take place at Mitchinson Flight Centre in Saskatoon. Participants will receive transportation to Saskatoon from their home communities, as well as accommodation in either one or two-bedroom apartments for the duration of the program.

Scheduled breaks during training will allow students to return to their home communities for events such as pilgrimage, Christmas, Easter, and winter carnivals. Rise Air will cover the transportation costs during these breaks.

Cultural supports are integrated into the program, including the presence of Elders and Knowledge-Keepers in Saskatoon and invitations to participate in events like the FSIN Cultural Celebration and Powwow in 2025.

Additionally, students will have the opportunity to engage in social activities at Rise Air, including Friends and Family Day 2025 and monthly staff luncheons during the summer, subject to the training schedule.

A formal graduation ceremony is planned for June 2026.

All necessary uniforms and supplies for the program will be provided to the students.

Ya’thi Néné and Prince Albert Grand Council will work directly with program applicants to secure funding to assist with living expenses.

If the student is unable to complete their training within the stipulated timeframe due to circumstances beyond their control, e.g., weather, illness, or other acceptable reasons, arrangements may be made to extend the period.

Visit our microsite for more information: https://dziretai.ca

Girls Take Flight

A team from Rise Air participated in the annual "Girls Take Flight" event at the Mitchinson Flight Centre on Saturday, aiming to inspire women and girls to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace.

The free event offered participants the chance to take a flight with a certified female pilot and meet with women established in the industry.

Rise Air's team, including Gail Fox, Jen Makowski, Tanisha Natomagan, Jaden White, Audrey Lin, and Alicia Ard, spent time on board their flagship ATR 42-500 aircraft and in Mitchinson's hangar, speaking with visitors about opportunities and careers in aviation.

"It's important to get more women into aviation," said Jaden White, Operations Coordinator. "It's really important that we have representation, and that young girls can say 'Hey, I have a female pilot today…or I have a fully female flight crew.'"

Jaden, along with nine colleagues from departments across Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services, went through a stringent application process to become beneficiaries of Rise Air's new internal "Take Flight" program.

Recipients will receive financial assistance of up to $30,000 each to help them complete their commercial flight training. This financial support comes with the benefit of mentoring from senior colleagues to help them on their journey to becoming a fully-fledged commercial pilot with Rise Air.

Rise Air Welcomes Second ATR 42-500 to Fleet

Rise Air announced the addition of a second ATR 42-500 aircraft to its fleet of five ATRs. The aircraft, registration C-GRYI, will primarily serve the airline's workforce transportation routes.

This latest addition complements the airline's first ATR 42-500, C-FHBX which is dedicated to scheduled services in northern Saskatchewan.

"The arrival of this second ATR 42-500 in Saskatoon is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to enhance our service levels throughout Saskatchewan's north," said Derek Nice, Rise Air’s President and CEO. "We are excited to introduce this quieter, faster aircraft to more passengers across our network."

The ATR 42-500 is a twin-engine turboprop aircraft known for its efficiency, reliability, and performance. It offers a comfortable cabin with a wider aisle, larger overhead storage bins and greater noise suppression over older models. This investment is an endorsement of the Saskatchewan aviation sector and the strong and stable economy.

As C-GRYI arrives, C-FHBX passes to carry passengers to the Athabasca Basin.

Celebrating Long-Service at Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services

Celebrating Long-Service at Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services

At a recent event in Saskatoon, Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services proudly recognized the outstanding contributions of our long-serving colleagues. With milestones ranging from five to an exceptional 35 years, we celebrated the dedication and hard work that has shaped our success.

We were honoured to receive messages of appreciation from Athabasca Basin Development and Cameco, acknowledging the support our colleagues have provided to our valued customers over many years. Where colleagues were unable to attend the event, we felt it important that we travel to bases where they are based.

In a challenging aviation environment, our team has worked hard to expectations. Together, we have increased our seat capacity and achieved the best on-time performance in our history.

We extend our gratitude to our loyal customers who have placed their trust in Rise Air and Snowbird Aviation Services for decades. With an unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism, and customer service, we are dedicated to continuing this legacy.

Thank you to our exceptional colleagues for their invaluable contributions. Your dedication is the cornerstone of our success, and we are proud to celebrate your long-standing commitment to our customers and our organization.

Rise Air Recognized as a Certified Changemaker by Human Resources Director Canada.

Rise Air is proud to announce that it has been recognized as a "Certified Changemaker" by Human Resources Director Canada (HRDC). The company received the prestigious 2024 Innovative HR Team Award alongside Agnico Eagle Mines and the Town of Innisfil.

"We are honoured to receive this award from HRDC," said Tracy Young-McLean, Vice President of Corporate Services and Human Resources at Rise Air. "It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our HR team, who have implemented exceptional strategies that drive positive change within our organization."

The HRDC Innovative HR Teams Award recognizes teams demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and execution in their HR practices. Rise Air's HR team has been recognized for its innovative programs and initiatives in the following areas:

• Talent acquisition and development
• Employee engagement and retention
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Workplace culture and well-being

"Our investment in our people, training, and facilities is a clear indication of our commitment to growing together," added Young-McLean. "Rise Air is a great place to work, and we are proud of our progress in creating a positive and supportive work environment for our employees".

HRDC is a globally respected publication that provides in-depth analysis and insights on HR trends and best practices. The organization's recognition of Rise Air as a Certified Changemaker is a significant achievement that demonstrates the company's commitment to HR excellence.

The report is available here for you to read in full.

https://www.hcamag.com/ca/best-in-hr/companies-with-the-top-hr-innovators-in-canada-the-most-innovative-hr-teams/476445

Click here to join our team.