Bathurst Regional Airport Soars Again: Direct Flights to Montreal Launching Soon!

Well, buckle up, folks, because there's some genuinely fantastic news coming out of the Chaleur region! After a period that felt a little too quiet in the skies above, the Bathurst Regional Airport (ZBF) is absolutely buzzing with excitement. They've just unveiled a major development: direct flights to Montreal (YUL) are making a grand return, and honestly, it’s a moment many have been eagerly anticipating.

This isn't just a rumour; it's a confirmed reality, thanks to a brand-new partnership with Chrono Aviation. Starting bright and early on June 2nd, you'll be able to hop on a flight right from Bathurst and land directly in Montreal. Imagine that convenience! The service is set to run three times a week – Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays – perfectly timed for business trips, weekend getaways, or even crucial medical appointments that often require a trek out of the region.

For those keeping tabs, this is a particularly sweet victory. It brings back a vital direct connection that the region lost when Air Canada pulled out in 2022. That void left many feeling isolated, making travel much more complicated and time-consuming. So, to say this new service is a breath of fresh air, or perhaps a strong tailwind, would be an understatement. It truly reconnects the community, offering a lifeline for residents and a welcoming mat for visitors.

Chrono Aviation, a Quebec-based airline, is stepping up to the plate with their trusty Pilatus PC-12 aircraft. Now, this isn't a jumbo jet; it's a comfortable nine-seater, which means a more intimate, perhaps even personalized, flying experience. It's an ideal choice for shorter regional routes, ensuring efficiency and comfort for passengers heading to and from the bustling metropolis of Montreal.

The benefits, you know, they really stretch far beyond just getting from point A to point B. Think about the economic ripple effect: easier access for businesses, a boost for local tourism, and an invaluable link for families scattered across provinces. And for those needing specialized medical care in Montreal, the direct route significantly reduces travel stress and time, which is just huge, isn't it?

Michel Roy, the general manager at Bathurst Regional Airport, along with Melanie Larouche, VP of Marketing and Sales at Chrono Aviation, have both expressed immense enthusiasm for this new venture. It’s clear they understand the profound impact this will have on the Chaleur region. It’s a testament to their dedication to fostering connectivity and growth in the community.

Booking your seat is straightforward – just head over to Chrono Aviation’s website. And while Montreal is the exciting new destination, there's already talk and hope for expanding services even further down the line, perhaps to places like Halifax or Toronto. One step at a time, of course, but this initial leap is a powerful statement about the future of the Bathurst Regional Airport.

So, here’s to new beginnings and easier journeys! This isn't just about an airport adding a new route; it's about a community regaining a crucial connection, opening doors, and quite literally, taking flight into a more accessible and vibrant future. It’s exciting to think about all the possibilities this new link will unlock for Bathurst and beyond.