Perimeter Aviation's terminal expansion praised by some First Nations, others say service needs improving

Perimeter Aviation has opened its expanded Winnipeg airport terminal, saying it will improve connectivity between freight networks and remote First Nations communities in northern Manitoba.

The airline's 21,743 square-foot terminal expansion boasts two new gates to host multiple flights departing at the same time, an upgraded outbound baggage system, and improved security through electronic scanners, the company says in a news release.

"When I think about aviation, it is a necessity for northern remote First Nations," Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs' said at Thursday's launch event.

"It is essential for health care, food security as well as economic opportunities, and so this is why this work is important … these improvements directly benefit First Nations," said Wilson.

The expansion features custom artwork by Indigenous artists, and includes upgraded amenities including a new restaurant, power-charging seating, and accessibility features such as visual paging, the company says.

The airline, which has provided service for the past 65 years, provides a link to more than 28 destinations, primarily in remote and isolated communities around northern Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, the company's website says.

Wilson says the new upgrades represent a shift in how Perimeter provides services to First Nations communities, and will provide accessible, safe and affordable air transportation.

"Every flight connects our people to care and opportunity, and to their families … this is definitely reconciliation in action," Wilson said.

"This is an important investment … we need to continue to invest in infrastructure when it comes to connectivity to our First Nations communities in the north. Migwetch [Thank you]," Wilson said. 

Garrison Settee, grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc., says he appreciates how the new space will make taking travel easier for people leaving home for medical attention.

"This is a lifeline for our First Nations.… There's a lot of space for our people to be able to be comfortable, especially when they're travelling for medical reasons," Settee said.

With the new terminal, St. Theresa Point Anisininew Nation Chief Raymond Flett said it will be easier to check in for a flight, while the extra space will allow for a better and less congested experience while waiting for the plane. 

However, Flett added, there are still some problems with the carrier's service, including frequent reports of lost luggage and cargo that is returned to customers sometimes weeks after the plane landed.

"Perimeter is servicing too many communities, and they need to streamline appropriate connections," he said. 

Flett also said fares are expensive, with few travel options. 

Other chiefs from the Island Lake region, which is about 470 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg, have criticized the airline in the past, condemning excess baggage fees and serious delays they say created undue hardship for fly-in communities.

Wasagamack First Nation Chief Walter Harper criticized ticket price increases. 

"They have that monopoly where they're the only ones that are flying and they could take advantage of us knowing that there's no other airlines that go here … and the people suffer," Harper said on Thursday. "Perimeter airline is not the First Nations's airline." 

A spokesperson for the airline said fare prices are adjusted to maintain safe and reliable service while also dealing with economic pressures including rising fuel prices.

Regarding delays on cargo and luggage deliveries the airline says the expanded terminal is designed to enhance baggage handling, reducing wait times. Perimeter said they have also opened a baggage claims desk to provide more direct support. 

"While we acknowledge our vital role in connecting remote communities, we are not the sole air carrier," the spokesperson said.  "We value our partnerships with northern communities and remain committed to ongoing discussions on enhancing travel." 

Settee agrees there is room for improvement, but said there's much to celebrate with the new terminal. 

"[I'm] happy because … our people will be using the services here, and their journey will be a little more pleasant than it was in the past."