MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release – September 15, 2021
Jet Bridges Bring Warm Welcome to Residents and Visitors
FMAA & FMWBEDT partner to showcase Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo
Fort McMurray, AB – Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) and Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism (FMWBEDT) have partnered to give the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) jet bridges a brand-new look and feel.
“The new wraps for the four bridges at YMM – which connect departure gates to their respective planes – now showcase the region’s place branding,” says RJ Steenstra, President & CEO of FMAA. “The imagery shows off Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s natural beauty, diverse population and recreational activities – which travellers can view from various areas of the airport and the sky.”
The new jet bridge artwork will be in place for three years and aims to bring awareness to the incredible landscapes, families and community spirit that make our region so incredible.
“This is another step forward in changing our region’s reputation,” says Kevin Weidlich, President & CEO of FMWBEDT. “Every interaction the place brand has is important—these jet bridges may be the first impression for so many visiting our region for the first time.”
The interior design of the jet bridges will be installed this winter, showing travellers even more of what the region has to offer.
“YMM is a major port of entry, and that is why it is important we set a welcoming tone from the moment that people arrive,” says Michael Sieger, Vice President of Tourism with FMWBEDT. “Images of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo on the jet bridges are an excellent way to welcome visitors into the region as well as greet residents returning to the place we’re proud to call home.”
“As recovery from the pandemic continues, we hope that more travellers will be able to experience and enjoy our celebrated regional place brand,” says Steenstra.
Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo branded jet bridge at Fort McMurray International Airport
RJ Steenstra, President & CEO of FMAA standing under new Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo branded jet bridge at Fort McMurray International Airport
About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com
Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA), connecting the World to the Wood Buffalo Region. FMAA is a community-based, non-share capital organization. YMM offers non-stop flights to four cities in Canada. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic output of over $354 million and supporting over 70 businesses on airport campus and over 900 jobs.
About Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism | choosewoodbuffalo.ca
Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism (FMWBEDT) is a wholly owned, arm’s-length entity of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, governed by an independent board of directors and managed by an entrepreneurial, customer-centric team. FMWBEDT is responsible for growing and promoting investment into the region, supporting the growth of startups and existing businesses in the region, and generating tourism and visitation to the region. FMWBEDT’s focus is on creating new wealth for the region, measured as economic impact.
FMAA Media Contact
Jessica Lipton
Manager, Marketing & Communications
780-793-7562
Jessica.Lipton@flyymm.com
FMWBEDT Media Contact
Michelle Drummond
Economic Development Officer, Brand & Marketing
(780) 713-1491
media@choosewoodbuffalo.ca