DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - Restoring scheduled passenger flights to the Dawson Creek Regional Airport remains a key priority for the City of Dawson Creek, according to the city’s latest strategic priorities report card.
The report, which tracks progress under the city’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, says officials continue to engage with airlines and other potential partners in an effort to bring commercial air service back to the community.
City leaders say improved air connections would help support economic development and strengthen links between Dawson Creek and larger centres.
However, the report acknowledges that any future passenger service would need to demonstrate long-term demand and financial sustainability before an airline commits to returning.
The effort comes more than three years after WestJet ended service to Dawson Creek.
The airline announced in early 2023 it would discontinue WestJet Link flights as part of a broader restructuring of its regional operations.
City officials said they were disappointed by the decision but remained committed to maintaining the airport as a regional transportation hub.
At the time, CJDC TV reported that Westjet’s service from Dawson Creek to Calgary had been plagued by inconsistent service from the airline.
Many people also said that for the price of a ticket to Calgary, they would rather drive to Fort.St. John and pay for parking there instead of flying out of Dawson Creek.
According to local airport records cited in the report, WestJet operated just 28 flights to Dawson Creek in 2023 before permanently ending service.
Since then, the city has focused on maintaining and improving airport infrastructure while pursuing opportunities to attract commercial carriers.
The report highlights several upgrades completed during the current council term, including securing grant funding for new airfield lighting, a de-icing truck and a self-serve fuel station.
The city says the airport continues to play a vital role in the region, supporting emergency medical flights, private aviation and other essential air services.
Officials say they will continue working with regional partners and the aviation industry to strengthen the airport’s long-term future and eventually restore scheduled passenger service to Dawson Creek.