Original air date: Nov 27, 2020

Rising Economy is brought to you by presenting sponsors RBC and Western Diversification Canada.

This session is co-presented by the South Island Prosperity Partnership and Pacific NorthWest Economic Region.

Airlines and airports have struggled mightily during the COVID-19 pandemic as passengers stayed home and air travel slowed. Essential air service airports and small regional airlines across the rural U.S. and Canada have cut staff, flights, and are facing enormous economic shortfalls.

With major infrastructure funding soon to be available in Canada and the U.S., how can electrification of regional airports and small airfleets for passengers and cargo boost the industry and save this vital industry? Between low-cost, green energy fuels and cutting edge electric technology, the Pacific Northwest has the talent and expertise to lead the world in electric aviation. Hear from policy experts, airline CEOs and electric plane manufacturers on the role decarbonization can play in saving and reviving small airports across the region, maintaining vital links between communities.

Introduction: Bruce Agnew, Director, Cascadia Center and ACES NW Network

Co-moderators: Rep. Vandana Slatter (WA) Yolanka Wulff, Co-Executive Director, Community Air Mobility Initiative (CAMI)

Speakers: Bruce Agnew, Director, Cascadia Center and ACES NW

Network Roei Ganzarski, CEO, MagniX

Greg Mcdougall, Founder & CEO, Harbour Air

Joe Sparling, President, Air North

JR Hammond, Executive Director, Canadian Advanced Air Mobility Consortium

Adrienne Lindgren, State and Local Partnerships Lead, Urban Air Mobility Division of Hyundai Motor Group