Porter Airlines reports March traffic

TORONTO/April 5, 2011 – Porter Airlines reported a 49.6 per cent load factor in March. The change is 0.6 points lower compared to 50.2 per cent in the same month for 2010.

Overall figures for the month show 97.6 million ASMs (Available Seat Miles) and 48.4 million RPMs (Revenue Passenger Miles). ASMs grew 22.5 per cent from 79.7 million and RPMs increased 21 per cent from 40 million over the same period.

“Porter had its highest-ever day of sales in March,” said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. “First quarter numbers have improved and set a good foundation for further growth as peak seasons approach. Combined with improved yield, we’re pleased with the overall 2011 trend based on current market conditions.”

Porter accepted its 21st Bombardier Q400 aircraft on March 31. It is currently in service as the first of four new Q400 aircraft scheduled for delivery in the coming month. These aircraft bring Porter’s total fleet to 24.

The deliveries occur ahead of numerous schedule improvements this spring. Cities receiving new or improved Porter service during this period include Windsor, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Moncton, Halifax and St. John’s, N.L.