2023 Spring Conference Opens

The City of Prince George Extends Welcome

The conference got off to a slightly late start after one of the key afternoon flights from Vancouver was delayed by 3-1/2 hours. On board were many conference delegates and speakers.

(Photo credit: Steve Drinkwater)

While they were pacing the YVR terminal, patiently awaiting their boarding announcement, some of those already in Prince George partook in a tour of Prince George’s airport, YXS, hosted by YXS CEO Gord Duke. The fire training site, unique in Canada, the fire suppression operations tanker facility/apron and the progressive business relationship with the terminal restaurant and catering operations were key highlights. Driving down the length of Canada's fourth longest runway was also entertaining.

(Photo credit: Dave Frank)

When evening arrived, BC Aviation Council Chair Heather McCauley welcomed delegates to the conference and this year’s venue, the Marriott Courtyard Prince George. Joining in the welcome was Chief Dolleen Logan of the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation, on whose traditional and unceded lands the conference is taking place. Prince George Mayor Simon Yu came to the podium and spoke enthusiastically about the pride his city has in its airport, and his city’s role as a transportation hub. Local MLA Shirley Bond and local MP Todd Doherty both addressed the delegates about their mutual recognition of the importance of aviation to the city, the province and the country.

(Photo credit: Steve Drinkwater)

BCAC Scholarship Committee Chairman Mark Duncan then took to the podium, together with Gord Duke, to announce a new annual $3,000 scholarship jointly funded by BCAC and YXS, named the Chief Dolleen Logan, Lheidli T'enneh First Nation Canadian Indigenous Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship. This brings the value of aviation-related scholarships managed by the BC Aviation Council to well over $100,000.

(Photo credit: Steve Drinkwater)