In The News

A recent feature in the Wall Street Journal follows the trajectory of Toronto's Porter Airlines and the story behind its stunning success. The airline, opened in 2006 just outside the downtown on a Lake Ontario island is in the process of revealing a brand new 50,000-square-foot terminal and is expected to move over 1.2 million passengers by the end of 2010. According to the Journal, the success of Porter and its CEO Robert Deluce can be attributed in large part to the airlines appeal to a "lucrative flying niche: the high-margin business traveler".

"In 2005, Mr. Deluce bought the airport's ramshackle terminal and later kicked out an Air Canada regional partner named Jazz Air. Then, he set up Porter Airlines, which has become a hit with business fliers for its top-notch service and convenient location, a one-minute ferry ride from the downtown waterfront. Earlier this month, closely held Porter opened the first phase of a gleaming, 150,000-square-foot terminal that eventually will house two passenger lounges and 10 aircraft gates..."

"The new airline has attracted a following for its downtown location, competitive fares, leather seats with generous legroom and complimentary beer, wine and snacks. Female flight attendants wear retro pillbox hats and peplum jackets."

read full story here
original source the Wall Street Journal