Harbour Air Pioneered B.C. Seaplane Service
The West Coast is an expanse of rainforest enclaves, mountainous terrain and remote seaside communities; its economy built upon the mining, forestry, agricultural and fishing industries.
As pioneers in seaplane service and technology, Harbour Air gave people the mobility to reach many of those far-flung coastal areas, thereby contributing to the economic expansion of the province.
The company started with just two planes. In 1981, company President Greg 
Harbour Air's innovative seaplane fleet delivers safe and
comfortable flights (Courtesy of Harbour Air)McDougall, worn down by the drudgery of flying bush planes in the Northwest Territories, began a stint as a flight instructor in Vancouver. When he committed to living in Vancouver full time, he landed a job flying a businessman to his favourite fishing spots. With the souring of the B.C. economy in the early 1980s, he lost his position. Fortunately, around that time he met another out-of-work pilot, Cliff Oakley.
The pair decided to lease a couple of planes from their previous employers and start their own company. Harbour Air took flight. They made their bread and butter by flying into logging camps. Intent on creating a respected seaplane service, Harbour Air was the first to require company uniforms. As they expanded to include sightseeing tours and multiple bases around the coast, Harbour Air grew to become the largest all-seaplane airline in the world with 25 planes operating on the West Coast.
Founder & CEO Greg McDougall (left) and his team
provide Harbour Air with professional expertise and
a commitment to excellent customer service
(Courtesy of Harbour Air)
In the early 1990s, concerned about the decreasing reliability of the Otter aircraft’s original 1340 piston engines, the company explored replacing the radial engine with turbine power. Their idea proved to be a success and in 1992, they decided to convert the entire Otter fleet. Harbour Air made a number of other improvements to the aircraft including better seating, electrical and cargo modifications, and replacement of the original flat-side windows with panorama versions for better sightseeing views. With its increased performance and improved reliability, the Turbo Otter was a visionary aircraft that would carry Harbour Air into the future of aviation.
Harbour Air Seaplanes, renowned for its professionalism, high safety standards and friendly service, is proud to be a part of the West Coast tradition.
