For the client it’s really a no-brainer. They’re aircraft that carries more, goes faster, and cos on a price per pound basis. The aircraft really
just started a survey contract in South America for a large research company; we’re surveying the jungles of South America. They are quite happy with this aircraft because of reliability, range and the length of time the aircraft can remain in the air without the need to re-fuel.” Another unique concept that Summit Air has brought to the charter air business is the way the company compensates its pilots. Traditionally in the charter air market, pilots are paid a base salary with the majority of their pay depending on how many miles they fly. The negative aspect of this model is that you can have pilots making critical decisions based on personal financial concerns. The difference in Summit Air’s policy is that it pays all of its pilots a salary. This new system was ridiculed by the competition when it was first started, but the change has led to great results. Summit Air’s pilots make decisions based on safety first at all times, and give the company 100 percent effort all the time. Mathieson explains why this works. “The key to our success is our people. I think a lot of businesses miss that; they see their payroll as an expense rather than an investment. To me that is the most valuable investment you can make in any company.” The mystery of the unknown and the lure of riches has always compelled explorers to reach for the uncharted regions of the world. Mathieson describes what it’s like to operate in the NWT. “It’s one of the most extreme places you could be flying on the planet. You might as well be flying on the moon when you’re operating up here. You are unsupported, you’re thousands of miles away from anyone or any help, and you’ve got to depend on your training and your ability to keep the passengers and crew safe.” www.summitair.net BE
162 Transport & logistics