NLIS 6
September 13, 2001
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)
 

Status report on departures from provincial airports

Oliver Langdon, minister responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures Organization (NLEMO), issued a status report on passengers diverted to this province as a result of the tragic attack on the United States.

In St. John's, a Sabena flight has left for Brussels. Early this morning, a British Airlines flight and a Virgin Airlines flight left Gander for Manchester, England and an Air Canada flight departed Goose Bay for Toronto. 

Based on recent decisions of Transport Canada, it is expected that up to 15 airplanes carrying 3,000 passengers could leave the province in the next 24-36 hours. These planes are bound for non-American destinations only. The departure times of planes to American destinations are unclear at this time and depend on developments in the US. NLEMO will continue to provide services to the nearly 10,000 passengers still stranded in the province.

Provincial officials have met with airline representatives and arrangements are being made by the respective airlines to depart on a timely basis. 

Minister Langdon emphasized that while certain flights may be cleared for departure the process of re-boarding the planes would be time consuming given security considerations. The minister also thanked the passengers for their patience and understanding.

"Responsibility for plane departures rests with the airport authority, air carriers, Transport Canada and other aviation agencies. I am confident that agencies will be coordinating their efforts to ensure an orderly and timely departure," said the minister.

All passengers are encouraged to remain at their designated accommodations and wait for information on departure times from airline representatives. This is essential to carry out an efficient departure process. As soon as departure information is available, transportation will be provided to the airport from the designated accommodations.

The government and residents of Newfoundland and Labrador has been pleased to assist the passengers and crew of flights that have been redirected to this province as a result of the devastating incidents in the United States. Minister Langdon has assured that the province will continue to offer these services as needed.

Media contact: Sean Kelly, Communications, (709) 729-1983.

2001 09 13                                       5:05 p.m.