Nolinor Aviation re-introduces Boeing 737-200 to fleet

Aircraft used in remote regions can land on gravel runways

Nolinor Aviation is re-introducting its sixth Boeing 737-200 aircraft to its fleet, the company announced Tuesday. The aircraft is able to land on gravel runways and is often used in remote regions. (Photo by Jean-Philippe Richard courtesy of CNW Group/Nolinor Aviation)

By Madalyn Howitt

A Montreal-based charter airline has announced it is expanding its northern operations by again using its full fleet of Boeing 737-200 jets.

Nolinor Aviation has six of the jets, which are capable of landing on gravel runways, but for the past three years has only been using five of them.

“During the [COVID-19] pandemic, we adjusted our fleet size,” said Marco Prud’Homme, president of Nolinor, Feb. 13 in a news release.

“But we are now returning to our previous capacity.”

The specific 737-200 that Nolinor is re-introducing to its fleet underwent extensive mechanical refurbishments to the tune of $3 million over seven months.

The move positions Nolinor to support an increasing demand for precious metals and minerals, such as gold, diamond, and those used in battery production, like lithium, cobalt and nickel, said Prud’Homme in an email.

He said this demand, driven by a federally backed move to green energy, has made Nunavut a “focal point” for exploration and mining activities.

Boeing 737s, particularly the 737-200 model, offer significant advantages for mining companies, especially in remote areas like those found in Nunavut.

“This aircraft is renowned for its robustness and ability to operate in challenging conditions, including short and unpaved runways common in mining sites,” Prud’Homme said.

Nolinor has partnerships with various mining companies throughout the country, such as Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd., and has had a Boeing 737-200 base in Yellowknife for the past decade servicing most mining projects in the area.

This type of jet is able to carry a substantial payload, making it ideal for transporting personnel and essential cargo necessary for mining operations, Prud’Homme said.

According to Nolinor’s website, the Boeing 737-200 can accommodate up to 119 passengers and carry 13,500 kilograms of cargo.

“Additionally, the flexibility and reliability of the 737-200 ensure that mining companies can maintain a consistent schedule, which is crucial for project timelines and efficiency,” Prud’Homme said in the release.

Nolinor Aviation bills itself as the largest Canadian airline carrier offering specialized commercial charter flights.

Share This Story

(9) Comments:

  1. Posted by Nunatsiaq on

    I hope they paid Nunatsiaq for this advertisement

    6
    5
  2. Posted by hermann kliest on

    This company should consider moving to Kivalliq as regional carrier for the region; Kivalliq and Manitoba route. We are now paying highest air line rates in North America? Probably. Canadian North has got us by the no-ball and balls. they have no gender discriminations this air line when come to $$$ IRA and other shame on you…

    8
    3
    • Posted by Northerner on

      Nolinor flies into meadowbank. They used to land at baker lake airport. But no one except employees and parts flew on it

  3. Posted by YFB on

    Great more loud 737-200 loud engine take offs, conveniently before 11pm noise by-law….

    0
    13
  4. Posted by Grumpy Old Man on

    737-200s were produced from 1967-1988. The newest 737-200 ever produced is 36 years old. No matter how well maintained, these things are past their expected lifetimes, which is why Air North stopped flying them. In a 40-50 year old taxi, expect parts to fail.

    7
    10
    • Posted by Grumpier old man on

      Whine,p—s,and moan, we don’t have roads, complain about everything, in Nunavut, 98 percent of people here do not pay for a ticket to fly, if Nolinar put a seat sale on from. Iqaluit to Ottawa, there would be a parade for them,

      6
      1
    • Posted by Hunter on

      Every commercial jet liner has a life expectancy of 20-36 years which really depends on how many take offs and landings along with damage the plane has sustained while in service.

      Airplanes are pressure capsules which expand and contract every time it takes off and lands. These changes in pressure put stress on the pressure dome and airframe that need to get inspected for damage at regular intervals. As aircraft age these inspections are supposed to occur more often.

      Just like a 1990 Pick up truck, it may still run but you are constantly replacing parts, don’t see many of them driving around these days.

      Same thing with a 1990 snowmobile, who is going out hunting with them regularly?

      3
      1
      • Posted by Marco Prud’Homme on

        Thank you for your insights on the operational lifespan and maintenance of aircraft, particularly in relation to our cherished 737-200 fleet. It’s important to clarify that commercial aviation, including our operations at Nolinor Aviation, adheres to exceedingly stringent maintenance protocols that far surpass those for vehicles like pickup trucks or snowmobiles.

        At Nolinor, we dedicate approximately 21 man-hours of meticulous maintenance for every hour of flight. This intensive care ensures that each aircraft not only meets but often exceeds regulatory safety standards. Unlike road vehicles, which may be maintained at the owner’s discretion, our aircraft are subject to mandatory, rigorous inspections and maintenance schedules governed by aviation authorities.

        Moreover, the operational lifespan of our aircraft is measured in flight cycles and hours, not merely calendar years. This distinction is vital, as it more accurately reflects the aircraft’s usage and structural integrity. We’ve strategically acquired low-time aircraft over the years and operate them with a lower frequency compared to traditional airlines. This careful management extends the service life of our fleet while maintaining the highest safety and performance standards.

        We take great pride in our maintenance program and the reliability it brings to our operations. If you’re ever interested in learning more about our processes and seeing our commitment to safety and excellence firsthand, we warmly invite you to visit us at Mirabel. We’re proud of our operations and always welcome the opportunity to share our passion for aviation with others.

        8
        1
  5. Posted by us too on

    Please bring your jets to the Western Arctic too. Really miss the jet service in Cambridge Bay. ATRs are not made for long distance flights. They were designed for short haul between European countries and Cities not 500 +miles Arctic flights

    1
    1

Comments are closed.