Helicopters will again take to the skies over Kitimat on Canada Day, after council unanimously approved a motion supporting the use of Riverlodge Ball Field for aerial tours on July 1.
The motion, passed during a special meeting on March 24, gives formal support for helicopter landings and take-offs as part of the day’s festivities. It also directs staff to send a letter to Canadian Helicopters confirming council’s support.
Each year, the company offers short sightseeing flights over the Kitimat area for a small fee to help offset fuel costs.Helicopter rides will cost $80 per person, with children aged two and under flying free on a guardian’s lap. Flights are scheduled from 1 to 6 p.m., with the registration window opening earlier; exact times will be announced.
The helicopter rides are one of several longstanding Canada Day events in Kitimat. Other activities include the Kitimat Memorial Hill Climb, a drag-race style event on the Haisla Boulevard hill, the Show n' Shine car event at the Tamitik Arena, and the Canada Day parade hosted by the Kinsmen Club of Kitimat. A day-long celebration is also planned at Riverlodge Recreation Centre.
Festivals Kitimat plans to continue working with Canadian Helicopters, but must receive permission from both council and the RCMP to operate within municipal boundaries.
This year’s tours are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., departing from Riverlodge Ball Field #2.
To ensure public safety, Festivals Kitimat will coordinate with the fire department and RCMP, and will work with Canadian Helicopters to clearly mark the take-off and landing areas. The company will also provide a $25-million insurance policy to indemnify both the District of Kitimat and Festivals Kitimat.
