June 13, 2011 – Iqaluit, Nunavut. Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) and Qikiqtani First Aviation Ltd. are pleased to announce enhancements that will benefit Inuit of the Qikiqtaaluk region.

“A key priority for QIA is to ensure that Inuit have the best benefits possible,” says Okalik Eegeesiak, President of QIA. “We are pleased that Qikiqtani First Aviation has listened and acted on the issues important to us.”

The revised Beneficiary agreement includes increased airline travel benefits for beneficiaries in the Qikiqtaaluk region as well as the introduction of a flat rate for shipping country foods system wide.

“We recognize the importance of cost effective access to country foods and we are proud to provide a solution that is agreeable to all parties,” says Harry Flaherty, President of Qikiqtani First Aviation.

Scott Bateman, President of First Air and Board Member of Qikiqtani First Aviation adds, “Our focus on skills development and job creation through initiatives such as our Sivurariaqnik program and now this improved beneficiary agreement, demonstrate our ongoing commitment to providing tangible benefits for Beneficiaries.”

Qikiqtani First Aviation Ltd. is a new joint venture airline between Qikiqtaaluk Corporation and First Air. Qikiqtani First Aviation Ltd. provides a range of aviation services throughout the Baffin Region utilizing First Air’s fleet of Boeing 737, 767, ATR 42, ATR 72 and Hercules Aircraft.

Qikiqtaaluk Corporation is a wholly Inuit owned birthright development corporation created by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association. QC’s purpose is to provide direct employment and financial opportunities for Inuit within and outside the Qikiqtani Region. QC aims to become a major contributor to all segments of the Nunavut economy. By balancing tradition with innovation, QC strives to improve the social and economic well-being of all people in the Qikiqtani Region.

First Air has been connecting the people of the North for over 60 years and offers cargo, charter and scheduled service to more northern destinations than any other airline. The Inuit-owned airline has over 1000 employees, of which more than 450 work and live in the North. For more information about First Air, visit www.firstair.ca.

Contact:

David Joanasie
Media Relations Advisor
Qikiqtani Inuit Association
Phone: 867-975-8414

Harry Flaherty
President
Qikiqtani First Aviation
Phone: 867-979-8400