Positioning for What’s Next: YNJ at the BCAC Conference

Langley Regional Airport Manager, Patrick Sihota, represented YNJ at the British Columbia Aviation Council (BCAC) Conference in Kelowna in May, sharing the stage as a featured panelist for "Vertical Aviation’s Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities."

Moderated by Trevor Mitchell, CEO of the Helicopter Association of Canada, the panel also featured insights from Cole Fouillard, CEO of VEXSL. The session provided a fantastic platform to highlight YNJ’s ongoing initiatives to the broader BC aviation community, particularly our proactive steps toward preparing for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

During the discussion, Patrick noted a distinct shift in the industry narrative over the last two years. The conversation around electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) technology is no longer about if or when it will arrive, but exactly how it will be integrated into day-to-day airfield operations.

He emphasized that the aviation sector currently stands at the edge of an emerging technology that will fundamentally shape future operations and regional connectivity, making it an incredibly exciting time for the industry.

YNJ is actively studying what AAM will mean for future Urban Air Taxi operations in the Lower Mainland. By analyzing practical use cases and building a robust business case early, Langley is successfully positioning itself as an ideal, forward-thinking destination for the next generation of aviation.

Thank you to the BCAC for hosting an incredible event. YNJ is proud to be at the forefront of these industry-shaping conversations, and we look forward to returning next year!