Charlottetown, PEI - The Charlottetown Airport Authority released the results of a Community Impact study today showing that air service activity at Charlottetown airport has considerable economic impact on the province.

In 2007 it is estimated that approximately $80 million in direct, indirect and induced revenue was generated provincially due the presence of Charlottetown Airport. It is also estimated that direct air service activity employed 108.5 full-time equivalent jobs and supported a total of 668 full-time equivalent jobs provincially.

 "We are working with our partners to facilitate growth to the City of Charlottetown and the Province of PEI," noted CEO Doug Newson. "The airport is an essential piece of infrastructure that has a significant role to play in the economic future of Prince Edward Island."

In the last five years, the number of scheduled aircraft movements through the Charlottetown Airport has increased 27%. In addition to more scheduled flights, the airport is enjoying the presence of carriers with larger aircraft, an important factor in helping to meet traveler demand. From a low point of 158,746 passenger movements in 2002, Charlottetown Airport has achieved five years of consecutive growth, culminating in 253,224 passenger movements in 2007. That's a 60% increase, representing average annual growth of 9.8% per year.

Newson noted, "We are very pleased with the success that the airport has experienced over the past five years, but there is no question that a number of challenges lie ahead, including potential consolidation of airlines through mergers, fluctuating fuel costs and the wavering of world economies. We continue to work with air carriers in an effort to maintain current capacity in these difficult financial times and, where applicable, add more capacity to meet the demand of travelers wanting to fly direct to this market."

The complete Community Impact report, including a review of the model used to complete the study, can be found here. CAA Community Impact Report.pdf

For the upcoming winter season there are still a number of travel options from Charlottetown. Islanders can fly direct to Halifax, Montreal, Toronto and Ottawa on Air Canada Jazz or WestJet. Also, starting February 17th for 11 weeks, Sunwing is also offering direct flights to Varadero, Cuba.

For more information contact: Doug Newson, CEO, Charlottetown Airport Authority Telephone: (902) 566-7997 x222