Study: Viability of Sakhalin - Alaska - Alberta Commercial Aviation Links

While Anchorage is uniquely positioned to provide expanded air service to the Russian Far East from the U.S. and Canada, new East-West air routes will be dependent upon a combination of the willingness for passengers to pay slightly higher fares, the conversion of passenger air craft to carry more cargo, or other revenue generating alternatives, a study commissioned by the Institute of the North indicates.

Ottawa-based LPS AVIA Consulting focused on the circumpolar energy sector in the RFE, Alaska and Alberta as the potential cornerstone upon which new regional air links might be developed. The study is part of the Institute’s work with improving the infrastructure within the Arctic to support sustainable development.

Specialty and niche market air carriers may offer the best potential in considering the circumpolar route.  Combi operations within Alaska is one critical element in being able to provide air links to regional hubs and smaller villages. The report urges the formal acceptance of jet combi operations by officials in Russia, the U.S. and Canada in order to increase circumpolar aviation options.

Prepared by LPS AVIA Consulting

For Final Report (English and Russian version) please see Related Documents.