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Bring international flights back to the capital
Despite the easing of pandemic-era restrictions, Ottawa International Airport remains closed to international flights. This closure forces me, and many like me, to reroute through busier hubs such as Toronto or Montreal, transforming what should be straightforward trips into unnecessarily prolonged and complex journeys.
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On a recent occasion, what was supposed to be a direct six-hour flight turned into an almost 20-hour ordeal due to the need for additional stops and the risk of missing connecting flights. This not only added to the travel time but also increased the likelihood of missed connections and the associated stress.
The repercussions of this closure extend beyond the inconvenience to travellers. Local businesses within the airport, from taxi services to restaurants and bookstores, are losing significant revenue. This situation raises questions about the rationale behind maintaining a state-of-the-art facility like Ottawa International Airport without utilizing it to its full potential.
Moreover, the continued underutilization of the airport contributes to the congestion at Toronto and Montreal airports, exacerbating delays and overcrowding. Opening Ottawa to international flights would not only alleviate this strain but also distribute travel demands more evenly across the country.
It is disheartening to witness our national capital’s airport in this state, especially when considering the investments made to modernize it. As a taxpayer, I find it difficult to understand the logic behind funding an infrastructure that is not operating at its intended capacity. This is not just a local issue but a national concern, reflecting poorly on Ottawa’s role on the international stage.
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Reopening the airport to international flights is not merely a matter of convenience but a critical step towards supporting our local economy, improving national airport congestion, and upholding the reputation of our capital city. Let’s not waste any more time or resources. The time to act is now.
Sivas Premjeyanth, Greely
Dr. Chow deserves to be honoured
What a perfect choice, to induct Dr. Donald Chow into the Ottawa Senators Ring of Honour. He was the stalwart team doctor for 30 years, and treated more than 400 Senators players.
But he was also an integral member of the Ottawa medical community during those years. When I suffered a life-threatening muscle infection 20 years ago, he was the surgeon on call who diagnosed, operated and managed my problem successfully. His daily visits were always informative and more importantly, reassuring. He helped countless people and saved lives. I should know, mine was one of them.
Ray Dawes, Barry’s Bay
Mulroney family has been a model of class
My husband and I attended the funeral of Brian Mulroney. In the company of dignitaries, politicians and colleagues, the stand-out group was the Mulroney family. This family had comported itself with grace, class and poise all week. Starting with greeting well-wishers from all walks of life for two days in Ottawa and then two more days in Montreal, Mila and her family showed us why Brian Mulroney was so devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren.
We were also proud to have this family embody what is best about being Canadian. RIP, Mr. Mulroney.
Alexandra Remillard, Ottawa
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