Direct international flights get the green light in Saskatchewan

International flights are returning to both the Regina and Saskatoon airports.

Starting on Nov. 30, the province’s two largest airports will regain their international status, allowing direct flights around the world.

That means people will be able to travel to destinations such as Cuba without stopping in places like Calgary or Toronto beforehand.

James Bogusz, the president and CEO of the Regina Airport Authority, said Tuesday this is huge news for everyone in the province.

“This is about the greater good of all of Saskatchewan. It puts us back in the game and it also makes sure that our whole province is able to be recognized as once again having two international airports with us and Saskatoon,” Bogusz said.

“We’re obviously thrilled. It’s going to mean a lot for those wanting a vacation or a sun destination over the winter.

“We’ve been pushing at this for many months and having this type of certainty now, for airlines and for people booking flights, is absolutely huge.”

Sunwing Airlines currently has direct flights from Regina and Saskatoon to sun destinations starting in December.

In March, both the YQR and YXE airports, along with a few others, lost their official “international” designation from Transport Canada.

In total, eight airports will be regaining their international status.

This includes:

• St. John’s International
• John C. Munro Hamilton International
• Region of Waterloo International
• Regina International
• Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International
• Kelowna International
• Abbotsford International
• Victoria International

“We will continue to work closely with our partners at Transport Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Canada Border Services Agency to ensure passengers are able to continue travelling safely, following all of the guidelines, and ensuring access to any testing required,” Bogusz said.

More information provided by Transport Canada can be found by clicking here.