Provides The Capability To Monitor Domestic And Foreign Vessel Activities And Detect Potential Violations

The government of Canada has awarded a contract to PAL Aerospace to provide aerial surveillance for Canada's inland, coastal and offshore waters. The expanded contract, delivered on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, covers an initial five-year period and includes opportunities for PAL Aerospace to earn contract extensions that increase the life of the agreement to ten years. PAL Aerospace has been providing this critical service under contract to the Government since 1990.

"This contract award confirms the Government of Canada's confidence in our company's ability to execute the most advanced maritime surveillance program of its type in the world," said PAL CEO Brian Chafe. "The program is an excellent example of the successful public-private partnership that continues to drive innovation and support employment in Canada."

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is responsible for the monitoring, control, and surveillance of Canada's fisheries waters, as well as certain international areas, such as the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization Regulatory Area, and the North Pacific.

"PAL Aerospace's work on behalf of the Government of Canada will ensure highly skilled employment and important economic benefits from coast to coast," said Jake Trainor, Chief Operating Officer of PAL Aerospace. "From St. John's to Campbell River, our operations and employees look forward to delivering this important work for Canadians."

PAL Aerospace's critical role in the delivery of Canada's aerial surveillance program provides the Government of Canada with the capability to monitor domestic and foreign vessel activities and detect potential violations. The program also contributes significantly to pollution surveillance, environmental monitoring, and marine security for a number of other federal departments and agencies.

"This contract is a significant investment in the Newfoundland and Labrador economy that will support our bright future in the community," said Derek Scott, vice president of Program Development for PAL Aerospace. "Ensuring we meet Fisheries and Oceans Canada's service expectations for this contract will push us to improve and expand our already significant core capabilities. In doing so, PAL Aerospace will be better positioned to continue developing and delivering value added Canadian technology and innovative practices to domestic and export markets."

Under the new contract, PAL Aerospace will provide Fisheries and Oceans Canada with service through a combination of Beechcraft King Air B200 medium-range aircraft and Dash 8-100 series long-range aircraft, all associated ground support and other related services. The aircraft will operate from bases in St. John's, NL; Halifax, NS; and Campbell River, BC.

(Source: PAL Aerospace news release)

FMI: www.palaerospace.com