‍DALLAS — Nolinor (N5), one of the few Canadian operators still flying the Boeing 737-200, has just announced its expansion in Edmonton, Alberta. 

This involves acquiring the North Cariboo Air (NCB) facility, a hangar situated at the northern end of Edmonton’s airport (YEG). Nolinor aims to acquire this facility to strengthen its expanding presence in western Canada. Currently, it predominantly operates in eastern Canada, with its base in Montreal (YUL).

The building encompasses 41,600 square feet, including 30,000 square feet of hangar space and another 11,600 square feet designated for office use. 

Nolinor intends to utilize this office space effectively, with mining companies- its primary clients- establishing offices alongside Nolinor’s operations. This arrangement aims to enhance the efficiency and speed of operations, while also facilitating greater coordination between the airline and its clients. 

The airline’s CEO, Marc Prud-Homme, stated on the matter: “This move reinforces our commitment to Edmonton and the surrounding communities. We’re investing in infrastructure, local talent, and services that support the unique needs of our clients in the North.”

Nolinor has not forgotten about its passengers, as it plans to make a significant investment in Edmonton’s terminal. This will include their own check-in, screening, and cargo facilities at the airport.

One significant development resulting from Nolinor’s eastward expansion is the addition of another Boeing 737-200 to bolster operations in Edmonton.

Nolinor has gained a strong reputation for FIFO (Fly In, Fly Out) operations in the Canadian North, flying where few others would dare. This is accomplished with their Boeing 737-200s, fitted with gravel kits on the engines and nose gear, allowing them to land on unpaved runways. 

Despite their age, the airline still plans to use them for many years, as they are the largest aircraft capable of economically flying to these otherwise inaccessible destinations. 

While N5 has been operating out of Edmonton for roughly a year now, this new maintenance facility will provide additional stability for the airline’s operations in Nunavut, in Canada’s far north. 

The airline already has a small base in Yellowknife (YZF), 616 miles (992km) north of Edmonton; however, Edmonton benefits from being better connected to the rest of Canada, making it a considerably more attractive option for FIFO passengers and the mining companies that Nolinor supports.

Stay connected at every stop along your journey! Get any Saily mobile data plan at 5% off with the code AIRWAYSMAG5 + up to 5GB free!