Can you introduce Air Bravo?

Air Bravo services all the communities in Ontario, from the south to the far north. Our three bases are Sudbury, Barrie Lake Simcoe Regional, and Thunder Bay, which is our main base. We have two new Thunder Bay and Barrie facilities and a well-established facility in Sudbury. We service all the northern communities that miners need access to. Our fleet consists of 13 versatile Pilatus PC-12 aircraft capable of handling cargo, cargo-passenger combo, and air ambulance services. We do the air ambulance for the northern area, in coordination with Orange. If miners need to get out quickly, we have air ambulance capability which alleviates the need to wait for governmental aid. Additionally, our corporate planes provide a luxury option for industry professionals.

Air Bravo boasts a perfect 23-year safety record. As one of the few Argus-rated 703 operators in Ontario, we hold the prestigious platinum elite rating, demonstrating our commitment to safety with no violations, and instilling confidence in miners choosing our services.

Can you elaborate on the advantages of the Pilatus PC-12 aircraft?

The PC-12 is extremely versatile, being configurable for passengers or freight, and features large cargo doors (53" x 52") accommodating various cargo sizes. It is pressurized and has a 28,000 ft operational ceiling, allowing the aircraft to bypass weather. The PC-12 is one of the few turboprops that can land on short strips and get above the weather. It operates the Pratt Whitney engine, one of the safest on the market. Air Bravo exclusively operates with PC-12s, simplifying operations and enhancing safety. When necessary, we can flexibly sub-charter from carriers like North Star Air for larger aircraft, meeting client needs without disrupting continuity.

How can mining companies leverage your services?

We operate 24/7 with multiple crews per airplane. Our availability and versatile fleet offers mining companies flexible, efficient travel options within Ontario, Québec, and internationally. We are committed to never saying no without exploring all options as longstanding partnerships with major mining companies can attest to.

In the winter, we fly into unimproved strips, like ice runways on frozen lakes. Our whole staff has experience operating into and out of the north.

How does Air Bravo address challenges in servicing remote areas, and do you foresee increased demand for your services as mining moves north?

Air Bravo is committed to serving remote areas, especially where infrastructure is limited. We collaborate with Indigenous communities and local authorities to enhance infrastructure, prioritizing safety, and efficiency. As the mining industry expands to northern regions like the Ring of Fire, we foresee a growing demand for our services. Our partnership with Indigenous communities and government initiatives strengthens infrastructure, making it safer for the miners going forward. The only way to access many regions of the north is by air. Aviation will continue to be a big part of operations in the north.

While upgraded infrastructure is vital, retaining experienced crew members is paramount for safe operations. At Air Bravo, our strong retention program ensures a team of seasoned professionals, crucial for safety in northern operations.

Can you elaborate on your relationship with First Nation communities?

We have great relations with northern First Nation communities. We serve various First Nations, including Webequie, Kasabonika, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug - Big Trout Lake, Nibinamik - Summer Beaver, and others. Although we do not operate scheduled flights, we provide regular ad hoc and specialty flights. We deliberately avoid scheduled flights, leaving that market to other carriers. Our strong rapport with these communities is built on our commitment to on-time performance, reliability, and safety, factors we pride ourselves on.

Why is Thunder Bay an ideal hub for Air Bravo?

Thunder Bay is a perfect hub for us due to its strategic location, serving as the primary center for northern routes. This central position allows convenient access for travelers from both southern and northern regions, eliminating the need for detours to Pickle Lake. The city's infrastructure supports our operations, providing our fleet with efficient staffing and overnight facilities. Much of Ontario’s mining industry is centered in Sudbury; having a base there gives our mining clientele direct access to the north.