Toronto-New York Service Exceeds Expectations Despite Industry Challenges
New York, NY [June 30, 2008] – Porter Airlines, the Toronto-based short-haul carrier, is enjoying superior growth and performance results, three months since the launch of its Toronto City Centre Airport-New York service via Newark Liberty International Airport. Demonstrating the strength of the passenger market traveling between the United States and Canada, New York has become Porter’s most successful new destination to date, with the Toronto-Newark route performing 80 per cent ahead of revenue projections.
Furthermore, the airline’s on-time performance record is among the best in North America. It achieved a trailing 12-month 87 per cent average for arrivals within 15 minutes of schedule throughout its network. On-time performance in Newark is 73 per cent, which is five per cent ahead of the airport’s total average using most recent figures.
“These extraordinary results prove that Porter’s new short-haul business model offering innovation, premium service and advanced technology is truly working,” says Don Carty, chairman of Porter Airlines. “This success is particularly noteworthy during a time when the airline industry is going through such a challenging period.”
Porter’s rapidly-growing appeal and the power of word-of-mouth have already resulted in 35 per cent of passengers originating from Newark on the Toronto route, despite no prior brand awareness in the United States. Encouraged by this strong demand, Porter will double its fleet to 12 aircraft within the next year, and have a total of 20 planes by 2010. Staff will also expand to 500 from 350 and at least two new U.S. destinations will be added within the next 12 months.
“Porter’s commitment to delivering speed, convenience and service presents an undeniable value proposition to customers,” says Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. “We stand behind our promise of ‘flying refined’ that will be a cornerstone of our U.S. expansion in the near future.”
Porter flies from its own dedicated terminal at Toronto City Centre Airport (TCCA), one of the most convenient urban airports in the world, situated just minutes from downtown. All Porter passengers have access to a modern, comfortable and stylish lounge at TCCA, including wireless Internet access, refreshments and work stations.
Complimentary Porter shuttle buses offer passengers a short transfer to Union Station, only steps from the financial and entertainment districts. The airport is also accessible by public transit, taxi, limousine or personal vehicle.
Porter flies the 70-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft featuring high cruise speed, revolutionary cabin noise-reduction technology and environmentally-friendly turboprop engines. While on board, passengers enjoy complimentary premium snacks, wine and beer, a spacious cabin environment with leather upholstery and extra legroom.
About Porter Airlines
Porter Airlines Inc. is a regional passenger carrier based at Toronto City Centre Airport. The airline serves Toronto, New York (Newark), Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and
Mt. Tremblant. Porter plans to fly to at least 17 short-haul Canadian and U.S. destinations. Visit www.flyporter.com or call (416) 619-8622 or (888) 619-8622 for more information.