Bearskin Airlines - Cochenour, Ontario

Eli H.

I want to start by saying we’ve been flying with Bearskin Airlines for nearly 20 years and, for the most part, it’s been a great experience. Unfortunately, what happened on our most recent fishing trip to Canada was extremely disappointing.

We were returning from Sandy Beach Lodge, and due to the float plane running behind, we were going to be about seven minutes late to the airport. Bearskin was notified in advance. Our flight was scheduled to depart at 9:35 AM, and we arrived at 9:19 AM—16 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Despite knowing we were en route, the plane took off early—around 20 minutes before the scheduled time. Now we’re being forced to buy three new tickets, rebook all of our travel, and we’re delayed by a full day.

I understand this wouldn’t be acceptable for a major airline with extended security and boarding processes. But Bearskin is different. Out of the 20 or so times we’ve flown with Bearskin, it has never taken more than 10 minutes to get tickets, board the plane, and be wheels-up. There’s no extended security, and the process is typically fast and flexible.

To say I’m frustrated is an understatement. Why would Bearskin knowingly leave early when we were clearly on the way and still within what should be an acceptable window? Is this really the standard of customer service for a regional airline that usually prides itself on accessibility and responsiveness?

I’d appreciate a direct explanation.

Ian C.

"the bear might take you there." Chronic delays, terrifying aircraft, random cancellations, and no communication. Runway slippery? Delay. Clouds? Delay. Blue skies? Better cancel the flight.

The only redeeming quality in any way is the employees that work at the Red Lake airport are nice.

Save yourself the trouble and drive if you can.

Kyle K.

Service and people are great! Its just a little pricey. $600 round trip to thunder bay and back. Cheaper for me to fly to toronto from Thunderbay. Overall there small 19 seater planes!

Caleb O.

Great team of people who love this part of Canada. Excellent service.