Bearskin Airlines: Connecting Northern Communities Since 1963 Founded on July 17, 1963, Bearskin Airlines began life serving northern Ontario’s remote First Nations—flying float- and ski-equipped Cessna bush planes from Big Trout Lake. Named for Bearskin Lake, a First Nations community, the airline’s roots run deep in northern terrain. From Bush to Regional Service In the late 1970s, with support from Ontario’s airfield expansion, Bearskin transitioned to wheeled commuter planes and introduced scheduled flights in 1977, linking Big Trout Lake, Sioux Lookout, and Thunder Bay. Its network grew steadily through the ‘80s and ‘90s—with stops added in Kenora, Winnipeg, Sudbury, North Bay, and northern Manitoba by 1999 . Fleet Built for Regional Travel Since the early 2000s, Bearskin standardized its fleet around the 19-seat Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner. As of 2023, it operates 22 of these rugged turboprops—ideal for short strips and frequent hops. Ownership & Partnerships Acquired by Exchange Income Corporation in 2011, Bearskin merged under the Perimeter Aviation umbrella by the end of 2018, while keeping its name and regional identity. The airline offers interline e‑ticketing with Air Canada, enabling seamless bookings and coordinated baggage handling. Destinations & Service From hubs in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout, Bearskin serves 15–17 destinations across Ontario and Manitoba, including Red Lake, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay, and Winnipeg. In early 2024, services to Dryden, Kenora, and Fort Frances were discontinued due to low passenger numbers—around two per flight. Bearskin has weathered challenges, including the tragic Flight 311 crash in Red Lake (2013) and a mid-air collision near Sioux Lookout in 1995, each leading to improved safety protocols. Today, it remains a trusted link for millions of passengers and essential air cargo. Why Choose Bearskin Airlines? Deep regional roots: Over 60 years serving northern communities Resilient turboprop fleet, perfectly suited for short-runway operations Modern connections via Air Canada e‑ticketing Community focus with consistent scheduled, charter, and freight services Bearskin Airlines isn’t just a regional carrier—it’s a lifeline for northern Canada.