A group of commercial seaplane operators wants to construct a new terminal they claim would be a cheaper and more logistically viable alternative to the $22-million seaplane and marina facility being proposed for the north end of the Vancouver Convention Centre expansion.
The Vancouver Commercial Seaplane Operators' Association (VCSOA), which represents eight seaplane companies that together transport 350,000 passengers to and from Vancouver Harbour annually, say the convention centre proposal would add at least $24 to ticket prices for every passenger taking round-trips on seaplanes from Vancouver Harbour.
As well, the VCSOA claims the convention centre proposal being spearheaded by the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre (VHFC), a partnership between the Clarke Group of Companies and The Ledcor Group of Companies, also offers no viable passenger pick-up and drop-off and has no immediate connection to public transit.
The VCSOA is applying to Port Metro Vancouver to construct a $10-$12 million terminal, dubbed the Harbour Hub, on the eastern side of Canada Place.
The association claims the location is more accessible to commuters.
As well, the terminal would be operated as a non-profit, with revenue being reinvested in the enhancement and operation of the Harbour Hub itself, said the VCSOA.
"Seaplane operators just can't absorb the unnecessary costs of the $22 million terminal now being proposed by a private developer at the convention centre site," said Mike Quinn, vice-president of the VCSOA and owner of Whistler Air, in a release.
"We can build Vancouver a new tourist attraction and, at the same time, insulate our customers and operators from unnecessary fees and rate hike,” said Greg McDougall, president of the VCSOA and CEO of Harbour Air.
The VCSOA said the VHFC has been unable to secure any seaplane industry tenants for its terminal, which is expected to open in May.
A VHFC representative reportedly said the $12 levy is a legitimate cost to seaplane operators – given all the services they will be able to access at the new terminal.