(Smithers, BC September 17, 2024)

Vancouver - Central Mountain Air (CMA) and Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) are proud to announce the expansion of their partnership through the joint branding of an aircraft and the addition of aircraft to CMA's fleet.

TNDC's dedication to becoming a leading transportation solutions provider in the Golden Triangle area of northwest B.C. is exemplified through its pivotal partnership with CMA. As one of the few Indigenous organizations managing an airport in B.C., TNDC, alongside CMA, is focused on delivering air transportation services for Newmont's Red Chris mine crews through the Dease Lake Airport.

The joint branded aircraft, a De Havilland Dash-8 400, undertook its inaugural commercial flight today. The airline expects to receive delivery of additional aircraft through 2024. The introduction of the Dash-8 400 will support CMA's existing charter services and facilitate the expansion of the airline's reach to new destinations, further enhancing connectivity across the region.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the strong relationship between CMA and TNDC, showcasing a shared commitment to service excellence and community engagement. The joint branding of the aircraft will feature distinctive elements representing the unique partnership between the two organizations, celebrating their mutual values and goals.

"TNDC is committed to becoming a comprehensive transportation solutions provider to the mining industry in the Golden Triangle area of northwest B.C. and our partnership with CMA is a pivotal component of our strategy," stated Todd den Engelsen, CEO of TNDC.  “The joint branding of these aircraft is a significant step forward in our partnership and demonstrates TNDC’s evolution into an integrated full-service provider and a trusted partner for clients in the region.”

“We have seen tremendous growth in the last several years,” said Douglas McCrea, CMA’s President. “Expanding the fleet to include the Dash-8 400 speaks volumes of our dedicated team and our partnerships. In conjunction with the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation, TNDC, we continue to provide safe & reliable air charter services to mining companies within the Tahltan Nation.  The addition of the Dash-8 400 aircraft represents a significant milestone in our partnership as it is an excellent example of our joint efforts supporting the growth of the mining industry and as a trusted partner to our clients.”

Designed for efficiency and comfort, the Dash-8 400 aircraft is the highest-capacity turboprop on the market and becomes CMA’s largest aircraft to date with a seating capacity of 76 passengers. It is renowned for its reliability, speed and versatility, equipped with advanced technology and spacious seating, passengers can expect a superior travel experience.

With its low carbon footprint, industry-leading passenger experience, and jet-like performance, the Dash 8-400 aircraft is the environmentally responsible choice for operators seeking optimal performance on regional routes.

“We are building a bright future at CMA and the addition of the Dash-8 400 aircraft will provide our fleet with newer, more efficient aircraft so we can continue to provide exemplary service and operational reliability to our customers,” said Carrie Colville, Director of Charter Services

As Central Mountain Air continues to grow and evolve, the addition of the Dash-8 400 aircraft underscores the airline's dedication to innovation, customer service, and community engagement. With a focus on safety and excellence, CMA looks forward to the positive impact these new aircraft will have on its operations and the communities it serves.

CMA’s fleet is comprised of over 30 aircraft ranging from 7 seats to 76 seats in a variety of configurations (passenger, cargo, combi, medevac). CMA operates scheduled service to nine communities and provides charter flights throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and the United States.

ABOUT TNDC

Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) – the business arm of the Tahltan Nation – is owned by its shareholders – Iskut Band, Tahltan Band and Tahltan Central Government. TNDC was founded in 1985 by visionary, progressive Tahltan leaders who wanted to ensure the Tahltan Nation benefits from the economic activities and development occurring within Tahltan Territory and to provide employment, training, and contracting opportunities to Tahltan members. From its roots in residential construction, TNDC’s services have expanded to heavy construction, earthworks, camp services, air support, aviation, forestry, transportation, and fibre-optic communications services. 

To learn more, visit www.tndc.ca

Contact:

Tahltan Nation Development Corporation

Deena Tokaryk, TNDC Communications Manager
Mobile 778 552 5082
communications@tndc.ca

ABOUT CENTRAL MOUNTAIN AIR

Established in 1987, Central Mountain Air (CMA) is a western Canadian privately owned and operated company. We offer regional scheduled and charter flights across a unique network connecting communities throughout British Columbia and Alberta. Our headquarters are in Smithers, BC with operational facilities in Vancouver, Smithers, Prince George, Calgary and Edmonton. The CMA group operate a 30+ aircraft fleet of Beechcraft King Air 350is, Beechcraft 1900Ds, Dornier 328s, De Havilland Dash-8: 100, 300 and 400 aircraft in a variety of combinations (Passenger, Cargo, Medevac, Combi). In addition to its proven track record and long history of providing air transport services to the resources, mining and construction sector – CMA is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective air services (passenger, workforce logistics, cargo, and Medevac) to the organizations and communities we serve. 

To learn more, visit www.flycma.com 

Contact:

Central Mountain Air

Sarah Blake, Marketing Coordinator
marketing@flycma.com