Fires in the Okanagan are keeping Angel Flight East Kootenay grounded until conditions improve.
The blaze has closed Kelowna’s airport, so Angel Flight has cancelled Tuesday and Wednesday’s schedule.
Angel Flight East Kootenay President Brent Bidston said he’s keeping a close eye on the situation.
“We do not want to hamper the firefighting effort, but on the other hand, our patients come under the essential travel category,” said Bidston. “As soon as the airport reopens, we will resume flights.”
Bidston said he’s hopeful to take off again on Thursday, but it’s not looking promising.
“This week, we were supposed to carry 22 people,” said Bidston. “I really hope it doesn’t go beyond this week, but we will see.”
He said driving or rescheduling appointments are possible alternatives in the meantime.
“I have contacted hotels in the area and clarified the situation and I’ve spoken to the airport manager and handling agents,” said Bidston. “Until the situation changes, and hopefully it does very soon, there’s not much else we can do.”
Bidston said Angel Flight East Kootenay will be back in the air as soon as conditions allow.
