Air Creebec, a regional airline serving Northern Canada, has marked a significant milestone in its operational expansion with the acquisition of its first ATR aircraft. The airline has purchased an ATR 72-500 LCD freighter from ACIA Aero Leasing, enhancing its capability to serve remote communities across Canada’s northern regions.
The newly acquired aircraft, identified as MSN727, represents a strategic addition to Air Creebec’s fleet. Initially converted to a bulk freighter in 2021, the aircraft has undergone significant upgrades at Empire Aerospace in Idaho, USA, where it was fitted with a Large Cargo Door (LCD).
This enhancement will substantially improve the airline’s cargo handling capabilities when it enters service in December 2024.
Tanya Pash, President and CEO of Air Creebec, spoke of the importance of the new acquisition. “The LCD variant will significantly enhance our ability to deliver essential supplies to remote communities in the far North. As the primary airline serving our region, we continuously seek innovative solutions to meet our diverse client needs. This new ATR 72-500 positions us as pioneers in regional cargo transportation.
Founded in 1982, Air Creebec has established itself as a crucial transportation link in Northern Canada. The airline serves numerous communities across Quebec and Ontario, playing a vital role in connecting remote areas with essential services and supplies. The addition of the ATR aircraft strengthens the airline’s commitment to improving accessibility and service quality in these regions.
Mark Dunnachie, SVP Commercial at ACIA Aero Leasing, also noted the significance of this transaction. “The Canadian market presents numerous opportunities for ATR aircraft in both passenger and cargo operations.
Our ability to reconfigure the aircraft from a standard BFC to an LCD variant, complete with maintenance and paint, in under six months demonstrates our market leadership in ATR freighter solutions.
This fleet expansion marks a new chapter in Air Creebec’s development, reinforcing its position as a key player in Northern Canadian aviation. The airline’s investment in modern cargo capabilities reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Canada’s northern communities while maintaining its role as a vital link in the region’s supply chain.
The introduction of the ATR 72-500 LCD freighter is expected to significantly enhance Air Creebec’s operational efficiency and service reliability, particularly in delivering essential goods to remote northern communities. This development aligns with the airline’s long-term strategy of modernizing its fleet while maintaining its focus on serving the unique needs of Canada’s northern regions.
Air Creebec celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022. Today, the airline operates 18 passenger airliners and two cargo aircraft. Air Creebec Inc. is a regional airline based in Val-d’Or, Quebec, Canada. It operates scheduled and charter services to 16 destinations in Quebec and Ontario. Its main base is Val-d’Or Airport, with a hub at Timmins Victor M. Power Airport.
The airline’s fleet includes 20 aircraft, primarily De Havilland Canada Dash 8 models, and one Hawker Siddeley HS 748 cargo aircraft. The HS748 will be retired and replaced by the ATR. Air Creebec provides essential air services to remote Cree communities, many of which are not accessible by road.
