July 26, 2022
One of two King 350s purchased by YFNAL LP. Photo Credit: Alkan Air Ltd.
WHITEHORSE, YUKON – Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Development Corporation (NNDDC), Kluane Dana Shaw Limited Partnership (KDSLP), Selkirk Development Corporation (SDC), Haa Chali Development Corporation (HCDC) and Alkan Air LTD. (Alkan Air) are proud to announce a newly founded partnership; the Yukon First Nations Air Leasing Limited Partnership. This partnership is rooted in reconciliation in action, while enhancing vital health care services to Yukon communities.
On June 22, 2022, Yukon First Nations Air Leasing Limited Partnership purchased two of Alkan Air’s King Air 350 aircraft. Alkan Air has held the Yukon’s medevac contract for over 30 years. Moving forward, Yukon First Nations Air Leasing Limited Partnership will be the provider of medevac aircraft to Alkan Air, while Alkan Air will continue to be the Yukon’s current provider of medevac services. This partnership is a demonstration of collaboration between Yukon First Nations development corporations to become active participants in the supply chain of essential services required to keep Yukon communities and residents safe. It is a reflection of the progress towards self-determination and the strength of the North.
“This partnership provides a great opportunity to work together to build stronger relationships between Alkan Air, Yukon’s medevac provider, and our Northern communities. With this partnership we are increasing Yukon First Nation equity participation in the provision of this essential service and we are excited to see this partnership continue to grow. Having Northern organizations partner together to ensure Yukoners take care of the Yukon is what we as Northerners excel at,” said Jani Djokic, CEO of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Development Corporation, and Chairperson of Yukon First Nations Air Leasing LP.
“Alkan Air’s priority is that Yukoners take care of Yukoners and this new partnership is another opportunity to move towards reconciliation with Yukon First Nations while highlighting aviation as a potential career opportunity for future generations,” said Wendy Tayler, Alkan Air Ltd. CEO. “Our company’s leasing partnerships, and our local flight school, are just some examples of the ways we can work together to move the Yukon forward by engaging Yukon First Nation Development Corporations in the provision of emergency services to Yukon communities and their own citizens.”
For more information, contact:
Wendy Tayler Jani Djokic
CEO, Alkan Air Chair, Yukon First Nations Air Leasing LP 867 668 2107 CEO, Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Development Corporation
ceo@nnddc.ca