Porter Airlines to double fleet

While most airlines are retiring older planes and grounding gas guzzling aircraft in order to save on fuel and adjust to new economic realities, Toronto-based Porter Airlines appears to be doing precisely the opposite, by doubling its fleet within a matter of 12 months. Launched in 2006, Porter Airlines is a full-service regional carrier that flies a fleet of six Bombardier Q400 turboprop planes. The carrier plans to have 12 of these aircraft by the second half of 2009. The airline will then add an additional eight airplanes to its fleet, bringing its total up to 20, by 2010. Robert Deluce, Porter’s chief executive officer, pointed out that the airline is experiencing a “steady, successful growth curve” and that while most other airlines-including rival Air Canada-are contemplating cutbacks, the Toronto-based regional carrier has been able to expand its fleet, keep all staff and continue offering a high level of in-flight and on-ground service, not provided by any other Canadian airline.

The Bombardier Q400 also appears to be a good choice of aircraft for Porter, as the planes have a reputation for being highly fuel efficient and also offer more comfortable seating than the standard economy class cabin on Boeing and Airbus planes.

Porter Airlines currently operates multiple daily flights from the Toronto City Centre Airport to Newark-Liberty, Ottawa-MacDonald and Montreal-Trudeau, as well as weekly and seasonal flights to Halifax, Quebec City and Mont-Tremblant. Passengers on all flights get to enjoy leather seats, free wine and beer, as well as a light meal, depending on the time of the day. Those flying out of the Toronto City Centre Airport also have free access to the Porter lounge, which offers wireless internet, as well as complimentary beverages.

www.flyporter.com