Officials with both aviation outfits say that the decision to make this transition was a collaborative effort that will best serve the air travel needs of those flying in and out of the city.
“We’ve been working with Aleutian as they were trying to come into the market since the beginning,” said Jacob Caldwell, who owns Kenai Aviation with his father Joel. “The intent originally is we were gonna hang out and be continuing to help Homer [since] we weren’t really sure where Aleutian was coming in. But as we’ve continued to work with them there, and with Ravn pulling out of Kenai, and just the huge need for an extra lift here in Kenai, it just made sense for us to go ahead and pass off what we were doing the [Aleutian] in Homer.”
Ravn Airlines terminated their flight operations at the Kenai airport in October, leaving a substantial hole in the flight services availability to the residents in the central peninsula area. Shortly after Ravn’s departure, however, the other two passenger flight services, Grant and Kenai Aviation came to the rescue. Both announced they would be expanding their local operations. At that time Kenai Aviation announced it would be adding 14 additional flights per week.
Caldwell said a significant reason for the transition was how it served the best interest of the customers. Specifically, customers’ wallets. “[Aleutian’s] got a lot more seats available, so they can keep their ticket prices lower than what we’re able to with the smaller aircraft and be able to serve the community that way.”
On their website, Kenai Aviation applauded Aleutian, and promoted the benefits of the transition of flight operators in Homer. “In a collaborative effort that celebrates the best of Alaskan air service, Aleutian Airways will now take the controls for the skies of Homer. Their proven excellence in aviation ensures a seamless transition, while we at Kenai Aviation set our sights on expanding and refining our core routes. This change is a win-win for our community and air providers alike, ensuring top-tier service no matter where you’re travelling.”
Then on Thursday, Nov. 16, KA thanked the community of Homer in a Facebook post. “Thank you, Homer community, for helping us grow in the Kenai Peninsula,” the post said. “We’re grateful for Homer’s role in our journey and remain committed to serving the area with charter flights and sightseeing adventures. For regular travel, Kenai Aviation nearby offers safe, reliable service. Visit www.GrowWithUsKenai.com for more details and opportunities!
Aleutian Airways announced on Aug. 1 that they planned to begin their flight service in Homer on Sept. 19. The announcement stated, “The initial schedule will offer two roundtrip flights from Anchorage, Monday-Friday, and one round trip on Saturdays and Sundays. Utilizing Saab 2000 aircraft; the airline offers a quick 40-minute flight between the two cities.”
*Photos courtesy of Kenai Aviation Facebook page.