WestJet service ‘would be awesome’: Selinger
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 14/02/2012 (5326 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Premier Greg Selinger has thrown his support behind Brandon’s efforts in attracting WestJet air service.
“It would be awesome to have a regional service out here,” Selinger said while in Brandon yesterday. “The community is definitely a growing community, and a regional service would make a huge difference.”
If a regular regional route was established, Selinger believes there would be significant support from the community.
“It would allow more business to be done in Brandon, more people to commute back and forth out of here … I think it would be a big plus for the community and for the region,” Selinger said.
Brandonites, as well as people living in Westman, across Canada and around the world have demonstrated that support by signing an online petition.
In less than a week, the petition soared past the 5,000-signature mark.
“Obviously this is really positive,” said Sandy Trudel, the city’s economic development officer. “The momentum is excellent and it’s great to see that it’s not waning with time and we’re still being able to pull in people that are what you’d consider more in-bound travellers.”
The city’s economic development department launched the petition last Wednesday, in an effort to demonstrate that there is a strong market for WestJet to fly in and out of Brandon.
WestJet employees voted earlier this month to support a spinoff airline that would land turboprop aircraft at smaller cities. Brandon has been touted as a possible location for service, which could start as early as 2013.
Trudel said the petition is a “fundamental tool” in helping them build a solid business case.
“I firmly believe that when it comes down to it, the community that’s able to provide a truly viable, rewarding financial experience will be those that rise to the top,” Trudel said.
As of 5 p.m. yesterday the signature count was just under 5,300. The online counter is a bit behind on the number, as it doesn’t include the signatures of those who have signed the petition at the office.
To sign the petition, the Brandon Sun has created a shortlink at bdnsun.ca/westjet. People can also call the economic development office at 729-2132 to register their name.
» jaustin@brandonsun.com