Can you share the latest updates and highlights from OCTANT Aviation? 

OCTANT is a leading consulting firm specializing in the aviation sector and a key supplier to the mining industry. Our extensive expertise encompasses runway planning and construction, air transportation logistics, and aviation regulations. This enables us to mitigate financial risks for our clients while ensuring the highest safety standards in aviation operations. Safety is our top priority, which is why we have also developed Akila, an SMS software solution for airports, carriers, and operators.

In recent months, we have been actively involved in airport planning to adapt infrastructure for new operational needs, accommodate new aircraft types, and to address the impacts of climate change. Climate change has notably affected the accessibility of northern sites by creating more challenging weather conditions for flights. To counter these challenges, we ensure that navigation aids are optimized for maximum efficiency and safety.

Can you provide an example of a project where OCTANT is adding value to a mining customer? 

Our comprehensive understanding of air logistics enables us to support mining companies right from the initial stages of mine construction planning. For one client, we conducted a thorough assessment of their airport infrastructure needs and fly-in/fly-out requirements well in advance of the project. As mine construction progressed, the entire air transportation logistics are in place with a flexible charter contract, upgraded airport infrastructure, and, most importantly, predictable air transportation costs. 

With the recent improvements we have made at the airport, the client’s charter flights will be optimized. They will operate with 13% more passengers, a feat made possible with our intervention. Over a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, these improvements represent several million dollars in savings for the mining company.

In which segments do you anticipate growth? 

We anticipate significant growth in the airport planning sector, driven by the need for infrastructure to meet the transportation demands of mining companies. To accommodate heightened activity, airports must meet several criteria: they must be suitable for the aircraft using them, handle a continuous flow of traffic, and have qualified personnel to support this volume. A common denominator is the operation of all these components with high safety standards, which is why we also offer airport personnel training. The advantage for the mining industry is access to a range of expertise and services under one roof, facilitating turnkey project completion.

What threat does the labor shortage present?

The labor shortage has never been as acute as it is now, affecting all industries, particularly the aviation sector. This shortage cannot be quickly resolved, as pilot training requires years of investment.

To attract workers, many mining companies are turning to more flexible rotations, requiring additional workers and an increased need for air transportation. The current context of labor scarcity and client demand forces us to be more creative in managing air transportation.

The 2023 experience serves as a striking example: the tragedy of forest fires demonstrated once again how agile our team can be. We activated our emergency plan and evacuated some 3,500 people from Cree communities within a few days. This was a significant challenge, considering that we could only use aircraft configured for 37 passengers in these communities. 

As mining firms in the north continue to rely on ‘’fly-in/fly-out’’, how important will the aviation segment be in Québec’s mining industry? 

Conventional aviation has proven its reliability for operating over long distances in the North, where conditions are often harsh. However, from a sustainable development perspective and with a target of reducing this ecological footprint, optimizing flights and routes is the first step to help achieve this goal. 

What will be OCTANT’s key priorities in the months to come? 

Several of our mining clients are working on major expansion projects, which will significantly increase their air activity. Furthermore, the North is facing greater accessibility challenges due to adverse weather conditions attributed to climate change. The mining industry prioritizes efficiency and, above all, reliability in its air operations. The costs associated with delayed or incomplete flights, as well as overtime for employees, can be astronomical. To mitigate these risks, we are proactively collaborating with our clients to optimize their air operations and prevent potential service disruptions.