In-Flight Review Winter 2026

RECLAIMING YOUR TIME • HELIJET JOINS AEROPLAN • INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Journey Across Canada’s Wilderness Pilot Logs 12,000 Hours Building Hope Spacations

WINTER 2026

Publisher Jim Schneider | jim@ifr-helijet.com Editor Stacie Gaetz | editor@islandparent.ca Graphic Design Brent Foote Account Executive Kristine Wickheim | kristine@ifr-helijet.com Distribution: Distribution in all scheduled Helijet aircraft and passenger terminals, including Vancouver Harbour, Victoria, Nanaimo and YVR Airport.

Also available at local hotels.

HE LI JE T FLE E T

IFR Magazine

SIKORSKY S-76A

SIKORSKY S-76C+ (BC AIR AMBULANCE SERVICE)

SIKORSKY S-76C++

Published by: Island Parent Magazine 518 Caselton Place Victoria BC V8Z 7Y5 Tel 250.388.6905 publisher@islandparent.ca ISSN 1916-5080 In-Flight Review Winter 2026 Vol. 18 No. 3 In-Flight Review (IFR) is a quarterly magazine published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., for Helijet International Inc. All published material is the copyright of Island Parent Group.

No part of this publication, in whole or in part, may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The written and photographic material published in In-Flight Review does not necessarily reflect the views of the air carrier or the publisher. Information and images produced in the magazine are believed to be accurate and truthful, but the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors.

Advertising in In-Flight Review magazine does not indicate an endorsement by Helijet International Inc. or Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd.

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WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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SPOTLIGHT

Helijet Pilot Marks 12,000 Hours in S-76

A conversation with Steve Toews

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fter four decades in the air and nearly 12,000 hours at the controls of the Sikorsky S-76, pilot Steve Toews still feels a quiet thrill every time the rotor blades spool up. From his early days flying fixed-wing aircraft at 17 to navigating remote corners of Canada and Asia, Toews has shaped a career defined by curiosity, discipline, and a lasting affection for the aircraft he calls his “office.”

Now, Helijet celebrates a milestone that mirrors the pilot himself—steady, humble, and built on thousands of hours of skyborne craft.

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

Originally from Manitoba and having grown up in BC, Toews has lived in many locations in Canada and Asia, calling the Orient his “home.”

“When I am back in Canada, I love working with Helijet,” he says.

“I have a soft spot for the company and feel honoured and humbled that they wanted to recognize this milestone for me.”

He adds that many talented pilots have gotten their start with North America’s largest helicopter airline.

“It is nice to see the talent and quality that gravitates towards Helijet.”

We spoke with Toews about sustaining a four-decade passion for flight and how continuous learning keeps him in step with an industry that never stops evolving.

How did you get started as a pilot?

I started flying fixed wing when I was 17 years old in Manitoba. I took a ride in a Bell 47 helicopter, and I was hooked after that. My first day of training was October 31, 1983, in Winnipeg.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a pilot. My earliest recollections are of looking at airplanes and being enthralled with them. I never get tired of watching things that fly–not ever. It is such an honour to have been doing it for so long. I feel like you wake up one morning and you’re

If you find that thing that genuinely floats your boat and you are able to stick with it, don’t take that for granted. six and the next morning, you have been doing something for 40 years. If you find that thing that genuinely floats your boat and you are able to stick with it, don’t take that for granted.

What is the most unexpected aspect of your job?

Helicopters do what they do in very remote places, which means you are away from your family and life for long stretches of time. Being a pilot is seen as very prestigious but until you are on the inside, you don’t really understand what you have gotten yourself into.

What is the best part of being a pilot?

The best part by far is seeing the world from above. I never get tired of it. It’s a perspective not everybody gets to see. The plus side of operating in remote locations is that the scenery is simply spectacular. When I see something like that, I often think “I wonder how many people have seen this?” and often the answer is: not very many.

What is the most challenging aspect?

The most challenging part is definitely staying on top of the changes in the job. As a pilot, there are many regulations and advances in technology, so I am almost always reviewing something. I always have my nose in a book.

What are you most proud of?

I would say the thing I am most proud of professionally is my relationship with the Sikorsky S-76. It has been my “office” for so long.

I didn’t have a master plan where I woke up one day and said, “I want to fly the same type of helicopter for as long as I can.” It is just very comfortable and familiar, and I have had a ball doing it. I’ve truly enjoyed every minute of it.

How has the aviation industry changed over the years since you began flying?

The technological advances have been astounding.

GPS that used to fit in a case the size of carry-on luggage is now the same thickness and size of your fingernail. Paper is quickly being replaced with tablets and screens. You need to keep up with it but at the same time, if you are really clever, you will quickly admit to yourself that you are never going to know it all. However, for all the technological change, the human element of the job hasn’t really changed at all.

Another way the job has changed is that regulations have gotten a lot tighter. We are always trying to make things safer, better, and easier.

What is your most memorable flight and why?

I don’t think I have any one flight that is more memorable than another but flying into Hong Kong harbour when all the lights are lit up takes a long time to get old. I feel like every pilot has a place like that that just takes your breath away.

What steps do you take to prepare for a flight?

It’s a process that involves checking the weather to see what is in store for the next few days. You need to check your aircraft conditions, gas and many other factors. There are probably more components to it than people realize but it becomes quite routine and fast.

It’s like a chef in the kitchen, you make your list, get your groceries and follow the recipe. There is an order and sequence to it.

What qualities make up a good pilot?

Never stop learning. You need to be humble and disciplined, and you need to own your own mistakes.

It is important that you take the time to listen to the people who have been there before you. That kind of knowledge is invaluable.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

If you are ever in doubt, don’t be. Believe in what you are doing and stay with it. There will be ups and downs but take all the grey matter you have and put it to good use. There are good days and bad days, but opportunities will come up and it becomes a case of pulling the trigger when the time is right.

What is a motto or quote that guides you in your life?

“We have two ears and one mouth, use them proportionally” by Mark Twain. I tend to be the quieter one in the room and prefer listening to talking. You learn a lot more that way.

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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By Stacie Gaetz, In-Flight Review

JOURNEY ACROSS CANADA’S WILDERNESS Vancouver photographer releases literary exploration

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

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xperience the raw beauty and emotional depth of Canada’s landscapes and wildlife without leaving the comfort of your home.

Vancouver photographer, cinematographer, and director John Banovich recently unveiled his first book, Banovich. The publication is a 450-page collection that serves as both a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s natural wonders and a profound testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

“This is not just a visual journey, it’s an emotional experience,” says Banovich.

“I hope readers will not only be inspired by the images but will feel the intensity of the moments and perhaps even be moved to embark on their own adventures.”

Featuring more than 300 vivid images and a dozen captivating stories, Banovich weaves an inspiring narrative of the photographer’s near-death experience, his setbacks, his seemingly insurmountable challenges, and the remarkable victories that define his extraordinary journey.

Near Death:

Growing up on farm in Cloverdale, Banovich had plenty of land to explore, which ignited his early interest in nature. As he entered adulthood, he expanded his adventures with road trips, camping, hiking, and any other activity that involved being outdoors.

That journey was abruptly interrupted in 1997 when an impaired driver crossed the centerline and collided with him head-on at a combined speed of 230 km/h.

He was revived enroute to Royal Columbian Hospital and spent several months there undergoing dozens of surgeries.

“Lying in a hospital bed in excruciating pain, I often escaped mentally into memories of the wilderness,” he says.

“As I learned to walk again and eventually left my wheelchair behind, I made a deliberate effort to return to my “happy place”—the outdoors. I still live with disabilities today, but I’ve never allowed them to impede my love for pursuing wildlife. Yes, it brings challenges, but the experience of being in nature, and the pursuit of adventure, remains exhilarating.”

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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Professional Life:

As a result of his tireless work in the great outdoors, Banovich has directed several award-winning feature films and documentaries, including a number of successful natural history pieces.

He has 25 years of expertise in filming and photographing natural history and wildlife in every province and territory of Canada, often taking him into remote areas.

Additionally, he has received more than 680 awards for his photography. He has an enormous passion for encountering all that creation has to offer through its magnificence and beauty.

The making of Banovich is a story itself. Spanning 30 years,

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Banovich’s journey took him to every province and territory in Canada, in every season, photographing under extreme conditions—from -50°C in the tundra to dense rainforests and remote mountain ranges.

“This book required years of dedication, courage, and creative resolve,” says Banovich.

“Every image tells a story, every moment represents life itself.”

Many of the stories are harrowing tales of the dangerous logistics sometimes required to “get the shot.”

“From intense bear charges to small aircraft being tossed around in rough weather, capturing many of these images requires courage, and sometimes a bit of stubbornness,” says Banovich.

“There were times I drove into remote locations on old, abandoned logging roads, only to discover during a storm that the road had washed out behind me, leaving me stranded with no communication.

I’ve photographed a massive polar bear boar asleep on the tundra, only to watch his eyes open as he woke.

I’ve been chased up a tree by an angry moose cow because her curious calf wandered too close to me.

And then there are the –55°C nights in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, trying not to get frostbite or be surrounded by a hungry wolf pack.”

The Book: Banovich is the first of

a trilogy of 450-page wildlife coffeetable books. Unlike other nature-infused publications, this new book combines stunning photography with personal storytelling and psychological insights, offering readers a deeper connection to the stories behind the lens.

Banovich also shares his technical and creative methods, making the book a unique resource for both adventurers and photography enthusiasts.

“I still believe in traditional photography, focusing on the true art of image capture with minimal colour correction and no synthetic or AIgenerated enhancements,” he says.

“The photographs are as true to reality as standing in that spot with

me. My hope is not only to inspire readers to explore this incredible country, but to allow them to experience what I did in those exact moments. These are 350 very real, very tangible, true-to-life scenes shared in celebration of what Canada has to offer.”

What’s Next: Banovich invites

readers to immerse themselves in Canada’s wilderness within the pages of his book and to get out and experience it firsthand.

“Our book offers a very simple approach—a pure love for the natural world, and the joy of sharing it with everyone,” he adds.

The publication also serves as a prelude to Banovich’s upcoming work, Gentle Beasts.

“Gentle Beasts is both the title of our next book in the trilogy, and a documentary series I’ve created from hundreds of hours of footage focused specifically on Canada’s bear species,” says Banovich.

“Our objective with Gentle Beasts is not only to celebrate these remarkable animals, but also to help inform and educate readers about the different types of bears and their behaviour. I believe more effort is needed to promote co-existence, and I’m hopeful this next book will offer a meaningful pathway toward that goal.”

Learn more and get your copy of Banovich at shepherdsterling.com/banovich

Photo credit (page 6) Katarina Banovich WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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HELI JOINS AER Helicopter airline partners with Canada’s leading travel loyalty program Helijet International, North America’s largest helicopter airline, is pleased to announce it has signed a partner participation agreement with Aeroplan, Air Canada’s official loyalty and rewards program.

Effective November 12, passengers flying on any eligible Helijet scheduled airline or charter services, who are Aeroplan members, will earn Aeroplan points. To join Aeroplan’s community of more than 10 million active members and start turning daily purchases into points for flights, hotel stays, gifts and more, visit aircanada.com/aeroplan.

“This is a first-of-its-kind agreement, and we are thrilled to offer the many benefits of this award-winning airline loyalty program to our flying guests, giving them access to hundreds of destinations and services both domestically and internationally,” says Danny Sitnam, President & CEO of Helijet.

Helijet becomes the first helicopter airline in the world to partner with Aeroplan, empowering its fliers to earn points and redeem them on Air Canada as well as more than 45 partner airlines, reaching more than 1,300 destinations globally. Aeroplan points can also be redeemed for hotel stays, vacation packages and merchandise.

Redeem for one-way short-haul flights starting at 6,000 points, access more than 9,000 hotel partner properties through Aeroplan HotelSavers, or shop brands like Amazon, Apple, and Dyson via the Aero10

IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

IJET ROPLAN plan eStore, with redemptions starting at 3,500 points.

“Now with Helijet, Aeroplan members can enjoy the ease and excitement of helicopter travel while turning their journeys into rewards,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President of Loyalty & Product at Air Canada.

“We’re thrilled to bring together Helijet’s convenient services in British Columbia with the global reach and value of Aeroplan.”

Helijet International is a privately held Canadianowned company based at the Vancouver International Airport and is recognized as North America’s largest helicopter airline, carrying well over three million guests in the past 39 years.

The company provides exclusive-use helicopter and fixed-wing services to world-renowned sport fishing resorts, public service and energy companies throughout the west coast of British Columbia and North America.

Helijet’s wholly owned subsidiary, Pacific Heliport Services, Ltd., is Canada’s largest privately managed Heliport operator, overseeing the downtown Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo’s Transport Canada-certified heliports.

Helijet has been recognized by communities and aviation associations as a socially responsible and forwardthinking air operator that deeply engages with the communities it serves. Helijet is committed to introducing and integrating zero-emission vertical lift technologies and related ground/building infrastructure into the communities that it serves; in conjunction with transforming its current Heliport infrastructure to meet future urban air mobility Vertiport standards.

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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JESSE’S HOUSE: Named after Nanaimo resident Sheri Shanahan’s daughter, the late Jesse Shanahan.

Building Hope Help Keep Island Families Together During Medical Crises

By Stacie Gaetz In-Flight Review

Each year, thousands of Island families must leave home for health care. In Nanaimo, the nearest hotel is over two kilometers from the hospital. Mothers in early labour from Ucluelet face a 2.5-hour drive, while families from Port Hardy travel 388 kilometres.

Jesse’s House in Nanaimo will bring families closer to care, removing a major barrier to vital health services and you can help make it a reality.

Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island recently announced a $10-million fundraising campaign to build a home away from home for Island families travelling to Nanaimo for their child’s health care.

The announcement was made at a special groundbreaking ceremony held at the future site of the home on the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital campus on October 8.

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

The 16-bedroom facility, named Jesse’s House, will welcome families from across Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands who need a place to stay while accessing Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and nearby health care services. Construction is estimated to be complete by spring 2027.

“It’s wonderful to see the Foundation expand into Nanaimo to support families north of the Malahat who need to travel to access care for their kids,” says Paul Murray, board chair of Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island.

“Jesse’s House will have such a large impact for generations to come and we are excited to work alongside the community to bring it to life.”

Jesse’s House will be the third home in the Foundation’s Homes Away From Home program, with others in Victoria and Campbell River. Jeneece Place was established in 2012, after Jeneece Edroff (now known as Frankie) asked the community to rally behind the development of a home for families to stay while their children received health care in Victoria. In 2021, together with families, health care providers, and community groups from northern Vancouver Island, the Foundation expanded the model to open a second

2 home in Campbell River called Q̓ ʷalayu House.

Jesse’s House is named after Nanaimo resident Sheri Shanahan’s daughter, the late Jesse Shanahan.

Shanahan has been an important partner and champion for a home away from home in Nanaimo ever since she stayed at Jeneece Place while Jesse was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Victoria General Hospital.

“When my family stayed at Jeneece Place, it gave us comfort during one of the hardest times of our lives,” said Shanahan.

“I am so excited to have worked alongside Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island to bring the vision of Jesse’s House to life. This home away from home will have a huge impact on the lives of Island families, providing a safe, warm place where they can receive the same support that meant so much to us, and be just steps away from their child.”

To date, the Foundation has generated $7 million for the project through assurances from the community, including Coastal Community Credit Union, Budget, the Rogers Foundation, and an anonymous donor who stepped forward with an astounding $2 million core funding gift.

“The Nanaimo community has stepped up in such a big way to meet the growing demand for a mid- Island home away from home,” said Veronica Carroll, CEO of Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island.

“With no government funding for this project, every bedroom, shared space, and moment of support this home provides to families will be thanks to the generosity and foresight of people in this community. It is truly inspiring.”

Through a collaborative agreement with Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA), the Foundation has been granted a 40-year lease for a parcel of land on the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital campus.

“Jesse’s House will provide much-needed comforts of home and familiarity during very difficult times for families,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health board chair.

“We are so thankful to Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island for their support of families, and to Jesse’s mom, Sheri, for creating such a powerful legacy from her own personal hardship. Jesse’s House will take the worry of accommodations away so families can focus their energy on their loved ones receiving care.”

The project’s lead architect is Alan Lowe, who also designed the Foundation’s two other homes, Jeneece Place and Q̓ ʷalayu House House. Tectonica Management Inc. of Nanaimo is the project’s construction manager.

Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island is working with a dedicated committee and dozens of community partners to help make this dream a reality.

Learn more and donate at islandkidsfirst.com.

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Rendering (top left) by Alan Lowe.

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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Spacation

You Deserve a Getaway

By Erika Palmer, In-Flight Review

What’s better than a vacation— a “spacation!”

You don’t need to go far to leave your stress behind you. As a tourist destination, Vancouver Island has an abundance of luxury hotels, many of which house award-winning spas.

Whether you need a day away to be pampered, or you’re looking to take the ultimate weekend with a loved one or a group of friends, here is a selection of hotel spas on Vancouver Island for you to enjoy this season.

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Magnolia Hotel & Spa

Located in the core of downtown Victoria, the Magnolia Hotel & Spa has been rated Victoria’s top boutique hotel. Tucked away beside their elegant lobby is their luxurious spa, which offers an integrated holistic approach to health. Using allnatural products, their curated selection of face and body treatments along with their relaxation lounge ensure you will be leaving there rested and rejuvenated. magnoliahotel.com

Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa in Victoria is an elegant retreat where luxury meets coastal charm. Their renowned oceanfront spa offers a range of indulgent face and body treatments, all designed to pamper and rejuvenate. After your treatment, unwind in the hotel’s seaside mineral pools, Jacuzzis and eucalyptus-infused sauna, where panoramic views of the Salish Sea provide a serene backdrop for relaxation. oakbaybeachhotel.com

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Overlooking the beautiful Saanich Inlet, the Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa offers a tranquil space to rest and relax, just 30 minutes outside of Victoria. Experience ultimate pampering with your personalized body and/or face treatment and allow yourself to be guided to relaxation.

Spa and hotel guests are free to enjoy the heated pools, Jacuzzi and serene garden. brentwoodbayresort.com Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort

This rustic meets luxurious spa resort is located right on the beach mid-island in Parksville. The Grotto spa has recently undergone renovation and now offers cedar barrel saunas in addition to the mineral pool, whirlpool and cascading waterfalls. Enhance your relaxation with one of their body and facial treatments. Make sure you leave time to dine in your robe and slippers while overlooking the surrounding forest at the Treetop Tapas & Grill on site. tigh-na-mara.com The Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa

Located between the ancient rainforest and the sea, The Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa is in Vancouver Island’s West Coast gem of Tofino. The serene treatment areas offer tranquil views of both the forest and the ocean while you receive

customized treatments to restore a healthy mind, body and spirit. Before or after your treatment, participate in a yoga class, visit the steam cave or relax on the oceanfront patio. wickinn.com Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa

Nestled along the shores of Comox Harbour in Courtenay, the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa takes inspiration from nature to offer guests an experience they will not soon forget. Their unique standout feature is the hour-long Pacific Mist Hydropath, a water therapy journey to relax the body and mind. Add other feature spa treatments such as a facial or pedicure to enhance your pampering even more. All hotel and spa guests are welcome to enjoy the outdoor heated pool, hot tub, infrared sauna and steam cave. kingfisherresort.ca Poets Cove Resort & Spa

Just a short boat ride from Victoria, Poets Cove Resort & Spa is a premier luxury boutique hotel located on Pender Island. Enjoy the Arts & Crafts style architecture of the resort, fine dining and picturesque walking trails before heading to the Healing Spa. Pick out one of the incredible treatments for your face and body, then venture into the Eucalyptus Steam Cave and hot tub to reawaken your senses. poetscove.com

Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa

Enjoy the enchanting charm and casual elegance of the Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa, located on Salt Spring Island— just a short boat ride away from Vancouver Island. Natural beauty abounds at this serene country hotel to provide you with a tranquil experience. Visit the spa in the cedarclad barn nestled in the gardens to continue your relaxation with a variety of customized massage, body and facial treatment options. hastingshouse.com Photos (clockwise from left): panoramic views Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa; aromatic massage Wickaninnish Inn & Ancient Cedars Spa; a gold facial at Hastings House Country House Hotel & Spa; water therapy King fisher Oceanside Resort & Spa.

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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WINTER AGENDA

ROYAL WINNIPEG BALLET — T’ƏL: THE WILD MAN OF THE WOODS & CARMINA BURANA February 9 to 10

Don’t miss this powerful celebration of the incredibly complex human spirit at The Centre Vancouver. rwb.org

TWICE: THIS IS FOR WORLD TOUR January 9 and 10

K-pop superstars TWICE bring their high-energy world tour to Rogers Arena in Vancouver for two nights of choreography and fan favourite songs. rogersarena.com

TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL – BROADWAY IN VICTORIA January 6 to 11

This electrifying musical celebrates the life and legacy of Tina Turner with powerhouse vocals, dazzling choreography, and all the hits, at the Royal Theatre in Victoria. broadwayinvictoria.com

CANYON LIGHTS AT CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE PARK Now until January 18

A beloved winter tradition, Canyon Lights transforms the iconic bridge into a glittering forest of lights. capbridge.com DINE ABOUT MID-ISLAND January 21 to February 8

Explore special menus across mid-Vancouver Island as restaurants showcase the best of the region’s culinary creativity. dineabout.ca DINE AROUND AND STAY IN TOWN VICTORIA January 23 to February 8

With more than 60 participating restaurants and 14 hotel partners, this annual celebration invites diners to enjoy Victoria’s vibrant culinary scene at special prices. tourismvictoria.com

DIAL M FOR MURDER February 5 to March 8

This gripping psychological thriller unfolds on the stage in a sophisticated production from the Arts Club Theatre Company in Vancouver. artsclub.com

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VANCOUVER HOT CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL January 17 to February 14

Warm up winter with creative, decadent hot chocolate offerings from vendors across the Lower Mainland from White Rock to West Vancouver. hotchocolatefest.com

SHORESY CLASSIC TOUR January 26

The cast of the hit comedy series Shoresy faces off against the Vancouver Canucks at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver in a hockey showdown that fans won’t want to miss. rogersarena.com CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR! – WE WILL CHOIR! YOU! AN EPIC QUEEN SING-ALONG! January 26

This interactive event invites audiences to belt out Queen classics in an unforgettable musical experience at the Port Theatre in Nanaimo. porttheatre.com

VANCOUVER CHINATOWN SPRING FESTIVAL PARADE February 22

This annual parade features lion dances, cultural performances, and community celebrations throughout historic Chinatown. vancouversbestplaces.com

LOVE LIGHTS AT CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE PARK January 30 to February 22

Love Lights wraps the entire Suspension Bridge Park in heartthemed illumination to celebrate the season of love. capbridge.com DANCE VICTORIA PRESENTS: CCN/ ATERBALLETTO February 6 to 7

Italy’s acclaimed contemporary dance company brings its expressive, athletic choreography to the Royal Theatre stage. dancevictoria.com LUNARFEST 2026 – YEAR OF THE HORSE February 14 to 25

LunarFest celebrates Asian arts, culture, and community with

DINE OUT VANCOUVER FESTIVAL January 21 to February 8

performances, and family-friendly programming across Vancouver. lunarfestvancouver.ca GODSPELL February 20 to March 29

This beloved musical at the Chemainus Theatre Festival blends joy, storytelling, and uplifting songs in a lively, heartfelt production for all ages. chemainustheatrefestival.ca SILK ROAD MUSIC: LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION February 28

A vibrant musical journey combining Eastern and Western sounds in honour of Lunar New Year, performed in the intimate Studio B space at the Gateway Theatre in Vancouver. gatewaytheatre.com

Canada’s largest food and drink festival returns with multi-course meals, culinary tours, chef experiences, and tasty adventures throughout Vancouver. dineoutvancouver.com

DANCE VICTORIA PRESENTS: GALLIM March 6 to 7

Known for bold, imaginative movement, GALLIM delivers a dynamic performance that blends art, emotion, and physicality at the Royal Theatre in Victoria. dancevictoria.com PWHL VANCOUVER GOLDENEYES Now through Spring 2026

Vancouver’s new professional women’s hockey team hits the ice at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver with fast-paced action and risingstar athletes. thepwhl.com

HSBC SVNS – VANCOUVER RUGBY SEVENS March 7 to 8

A high-energy weekend of international rugby, costumes, music, and nonstop excitement as Vancouver hosts the world-class Sevens tournament at BC Place. svns.com

CARDI B – LITTLE MISS DRAMA TOUR February 21

Cardi B hits the stage at Rogers Arena in Vancouver with bold visuals, huge energy, and all the attitude in this major arena tour. rogersarena.com

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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~ THE ~

ULTIMATE LUXURY Why Time, Not Money, Is the New Measure of Success

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By George Bielay, Waypoint Counselling Network

cross British Columbia, senior public servants, executives, and business owners carry immense responsibility. From Victoria’s government offices to privately owned enterprises across the Lower Mainland and beyond, their decisions influence budgets, employment, infrastructure, and community wellbeing. They operate in complex systems that demand speed, precision, and constant availability.

For many of these leaders, the resource in shortest supply is time.

Time has quietly replaced money as the true marker of wealth. Many professionals today live comfortably, travel frequently, and have reached positions of meaningful influence. Still, they feel chronically rushed.

The calendar fills faster than it clears. Even moments intended for rest are interrupted by messages and lowgrade urgency that never quite switches off.

“Busy” has become the default setting; even the culture.

The Cost of Constant Responsibility In leadership roles, availability is often mistaken for reliability. Being reachable signals commitment. Rapid response signals competence. But the psychological weight of constant responsibility is significant. When a person is never fully off duty, the nervous system rarely recovers. The body stays in a subtle state of readiness.

The mind remains alert even when still.

This does not show up immediately as burnout. It surfaces gradually. Sleep becomes lighter. Irritability increases. Decisions feel heavier than they once did.

Patience shortens. Creativity narrows. Leaders often assume this is simply the price of responsibility.

It is actually the absence of recovery.Many high performers don’t struggle because they lack discipline.

They struggle because they never truly rest.

Why Time Is a Leadership Asset Most business owners and senior managers are highly skilled at protecting financial capital. Risk is assessed carefully. Resources are allocated with precision. Time, by contrast, is often treated as a secondary concern. It is absorbed by meetings, travel, administrative load, and the quiet creep of after-hours communication.

But time governs everything else. Clear thinking, emotional steadiness, relational presence, and sound judgment all depend on it. When time becomes depleted, leadership quality follows. When time is protected, leadership stabilizes.

Time is not a personal indulgence. It is strategic capital.

Reclaiming Time While on the Road For leaders who travel frequently within BC or beyond, routine is fragile. Flights, hotels, long days, and constant transitions quietly erode personal margins. Recovery must be made intentional.

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Here are 6 strategies to help you safeguard your time and maintain a sense of balance—no matter where your work takes you: 1. Block Two Unreachable Hours a Day Choose two hours when you are genuinely unavailable to staff, clients, and email. This is not avoidance. It is a boundary that preserves depth of thought and emotional regulation.

2. Use the Space Between Commitments Most people treat meetings and travel as endpoints.

The transitions between them go unmanaged. Sixty seconds of stillness, a short walk, or three slow breaths between commitments prevents stress from stacking unnoticed.

3. Anchor One Habit to Travel Rather than trying to maintain full routines on the road, attach one stabilizing practice to something that always happens: airport security, hotel check-in, or the first coffee of the day. Consistency matters more than complexity.

4. Reclaim One Work-Free Evening Each Week One evening without work contact after dinner often restores more clarity than an entire weekend of intermittent checking.

5. Think in Small Returns You do not need sweeping changes. Reclaiming even five percent of your weekly schedule for genuine restoration produces measurable benefits in sleep, patience, and decision quality.

SHIFT GEARS FROM BUSINESS TO PLEASURE AT FATHOM Located on Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Fathom is the perfect post-flight escape.

Whether you’re easing into the evening with a hand-crafted cocktail, catching live music in the lounge, or settling in for a relaxing meal.

6. The Emotional Return on Time Leaders who begin reclaiming time often notice changes at home before they see them at work. Conversations soften. Sleep deepens. Distraction decreases.

Over time, professional benefits emerge: steadier leadership under pressure, improved tolerance for complexity, and greater confidence in decision-making.

Leadership does not weaken when rest increases.

It steadies.

Redefining Success No one reaches the end of a career wishing they had spent more time responding to messages. Many quietly wish they had been more present for the life unfolding alongside their success.

For BC’s senior leaders and business owners, the next chapter of achievement is not defined by higher output. It is defined by higher quality of presence.

Because in the end, time is not just a luxury. It is the one asset that cannot be replaced.

FATHOMVICTORIA.COM WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

19

BC chefs get heated Top Chef Canada ki

Three of this season’s Top Chef Canada contenders are from right here in BC. Th country’s best up-and-coming professional chefs, each with their own culinary for the prestigious title of Canada’s Top Chef. Meet the three rising stars that h

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KATY CHEUNG, 33

NICK MAHARAJ, 35

Location: Vancouver Company: Burdock & Co

Location: Victoria Company: Part and Parcel

As the Sous Chef at Vancouver’s Michelin-starred Burdock & Co., Katy Cheung brings precision, creativity, and a deep respect for ingredients to one of the city’s most celebrated kitchens. Born in Canada and raised in Hong Kong, Cheung draws from both worlds to shape her Neo-Chinese cooking style, combining traditional Cantonese flavours with Western techniques. Outside of Burdock & Co., she runs the buzzedabout pop-up See Ha Lah, known for Cantonese-inspired small bites paired with wines. In 2024, Cheung made her competition debut at the Curry Cup hosted by Chef’s Table BC and took home first place. A proud queer Asian chef with big dreams of opening her own spot, Cheung is here to shake things up, inspire the next generation, and show the judges what the future of Chinese cuisine looks, and tastes like.

Nick Maharaj got his start in the culinary world as a teenager washing dishes at his uncle’s Caribbean restaurant in Winnipeg before tossing dough at local pizza joints. But once he got a real taste for the kitchen, there was no turning down the heat. In his 20s, Maharaj moved to Victoria to sharpen his chops at the acclaimed Wickaninnish Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property. There, he began cooking with the wild ingredients of the Pacific Northwest, including foraged fungi, fresh seafood, and bold global flavours, inspired by his Caribbean roots. Now Head Chef at Part & Parcel in Victoria, Maharaj is known for his inventive shared plates and well-seasoned sense of fun. His cooking style may come off as laid-back, but his technique, creativity, and secret butchery skills are all dialed in with a playful approach and serious talent.

IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

d in the itchen

he 12th season features 10 of the origin story, and each fighting hail from our province:

CA N A D I A N A R T

TWO CITIES

TWO GALLERIES

ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW TO SEE

WHEREVER YOU LAND.

ASHDALE GALLERY

NORTH VANCOUVER

778-835-2275 ASHDALEGALLERY.COM #113-175 WEST 3RD STREET

ALEX KIM, 34 Location: Vancouver Company: Five Sails & Glowbal Restaurant Group Alex Kim is a chef stirring up the culinary scene with a perfectly balanced blend of French finesse and Korean soul.

He specializes in refined, fine dining experiences that spotlight Pacific Northwest ingredients, especially fresh seafood. Earlier this year Kim cemented his place among Canada’s culinary elite when he took home gold at the Canadian Culinary Championship. The flavours of Kim’s childhood summers in Seoul, South Korea, shaped by his grandmother’s cooking, inspire his thoughtful and precise approach to every dish. He is currently the Culinary Director at Five Sails & Glowbal and is a Certified Red Seal Chef and Alberta Journeyman Cook. With heart, heritage, and high standards, Kim is showing Canada what he’s made of in the kitchen.

GALLERY MERRICK VICTORIA

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Sca n th e Q R co d es a b o ve

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

21

Helijet hosts first all-electric passenger demonstration flight in Western Canada

H

elijet International Inc. and Canadian Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM) welcomed the arrival of BETA Technologies’ electric passenger- and cargo-carrying aircraft to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on November 4. This marks the first time BETA has flown an aircraft of this kind into Western Canada.

“Helijet is delighted to welcome the first arrival of the CX300 to our terminal here at YVR,” said Helijet President and CEO Danny Sitnam.

“Today’s smooth and successful demonstration flight is tangible proof that the future of passenger and cargo flights is aboard quiet and emissions-free aircraft like the CX300 and its counterpart the ALIA eVTOL model from BETA Technologies. When it comes to customer service and environmental sustainability, Helijet is proud to be an early adopter of innovative technology that prioritizes the needs of people and the planet.”

Helijet is taking steps to become the first Canadian air carrier to provide passenger and cargo air services using electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. In 2023, Helijet announced a firm order for BETA’s ALIA VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing), model A250 aircraft with the support of British Columbia Premier David Eby. “Today’s arrival of the BETA ALIA CTOL (CX300) aircraft at YVR marks another aviation milestone for advanced air mobility in BC and

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

Canada,” added CAAM Executive Director JR Hammond.

“The progress being achieved by Helijet, BETA and CAAM members across the country demonstrates that advanced air mobility is quickly becoming operational reality for carriers, airports and fixed-base operators worldwide.”

Upon delivery, Helijet will integrate the ALIA VTOL aircraft into its existing network of helicopter services, providing quieter, lower-cost, sustainable air transportation for travellers in southwestern BC and the Pacific Northwest.

“In the past two years, we have steadily increased our presence in Canada, from opening offices in Montréal, landing the first electric aircraft at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, joining the CAAM board, and forging an ongoing partnership with Helijet to help create cargo and passenger solutions for Western Canada,” said Sheradin Fabrizius, Sales Director at BETA. “We’re excited for the industry’s growth as we demonstrate that quiet, lower-cost electric aviation is quickly becoming a reality across the continent.”

ALIA’s VTOL capability has the potential to enhance Helijet’s ongoing provision of healthcare and cargo air services in the Lower Mainland. This effort, which is being conducted alongside Helijet’s alliance partner, Helicopters Without Borders, aims to support rural and remote communities that do not have access to affordable and convenient air services.

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Contact Helijet’s Charter Services and let us know where you need to be and when you need to be there, then leave the rest to us.

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Helijet.com WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

23

Education That Reflects Your Standards

I

By Stacie Gaetz, In-Flight Review ndependent schools offer an educational

experience that mirrors the expectations of today’s workforce: rigorous academics, personalized attention, and a clear focus on developing capable, confident young adults.

These schools combine intellectual discipline with exceptional resources, engaged faculty, and a culture that values both achievement and character. The result is an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, lead thoughtfully, and discover their full potential.

“Independent schools must support the whole student, not only academic performance,” says Dr. Jeff Aitken, head of school at St. Michaels University School.

“At St. Michaels University School, we make space for the arts, athletics, service, and unstructured time, because personal growth comes from a full experience, not just classroom success.”

Academics, Elevated

Independent schools are known for enriched academic pathways that go beyond standard curricula. Advanced Placement (AP) courses, the International Baccalaureate (IB), specialized arts and science programs, and gifted education opportunities challenge students to perform at a higher level, preparing them for top universities and competitive careers.

The Advantage of Small Classes

Smaller class sizes translate into measurable results.

Research consistently shows that students in smaller classes achieve stronger academic outcomes, particularly over time. With fewer students per classroom, teachers can tailor instruction, identify strengths early, and provide meaningful mentorship (an advantage that compounds year after year).

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026

A Partnership with Families

Independent schools view parents as partners. Open communication, thoughtful governance, and active parent communities create alignment between home and school. From strategic fundraising initiatives to community events, families play a meaningful role in shaping the educational environment.

Exceptional Educators Teachers in independent schools are not only highly qualified—often holding advanced degrees—but deeply invested in their subjects and their students. Lower student-to-teacher ratios ensure accessibility, whether a student needs additional support or greater academic challenge.

A Secure, Respectful Environment

High standards for conduct, respect, and accountability are foundational. With lower staff-to-student ratios and well-resourced campuses, independent schools offer a safe, structured environment that allows students to focus fully on learning and personal growth.

A Community That Endures The relationships formed in independent schools often last well beyond graduation. Alumni networks foster lifelong connections, professional opportunities, and a strong sense of shared identity, which is an invaluable asset as students move into higher education and the workforce.

For example, St Margaret’s School claims to “empower girls to lead with voice, purpose, and humanity, nurturing equal opportunity, values, and women’s power to change the world.”

Resources Without Compromise From science labs and athletic facilities to art studios and performance spaces, independent schools invest heavily in resources that allow students to explore their interests deeply. These environments encourage curiosity, creativity, and excellence across disciplines.

A Balanced, Global Education While academic achievement remains central, independent schools prioritize a well-rounded education.

Athletics, music, visual arts, clubs, and service learning provide balance, resilience, and real-world skills that prepare students not just to succeed, but to thrive.

An Educational Philosophy That Fits

Independent schools offer a range of educational philosophies, allowing families to choose an approach aligned with their values and their child’s learning style. Whether Montessori, IB, arts-based, or STEMfocused, the right fit fosters independence, confidence, and long-term success.

Preparing Leaders for Tomorrow Independent schools have a long history of developing leaders in business, politics, and society. Agile and forward-thinking, they adapt quickly to cultural and technological change while offering specialized programs in academics, athletics, and the arts. Increasingly, they also provide tailored support for students with diverse learning needs.

For families who expect the same level of excellence in education as they do in travel, business, and life, independent schools deliver an experience defined by quality, intention, and lasting impact.

WINTER 2026 | IN-FLIGHT REVIEW

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Squamish

Courtenay Port Alberni

ROUTE MAP Current Routes: Future Routes:

Parksville

Nanaimo 7

2

3

1

4 8

Vancouver

5

Chilliwack Abbotsford

9

Canada

Vancouver Island 10

6

15 16

12

13

17

14 18 19

20

25

22 26 28

31

Bellingham

24

23

21

Victoria

United States

11

27

29 30

POINTS OF INTEREST: 1.

Downtown Vancouver Harbour Heliport 2. Stanley Park 3. English Bay 4. University of British Columbia 5. Vancouver Airport 6. Point Roberts 7. Nanaimo Heliport 8. Gabriola Island 9. Valdes Island 10. Galiano Island 11. Mayne Island 12. Saturna Island 13. North Pender Island 14. South Pender Island 15. Ganges 16. Salt Spring Island

17. Fulford Harbour 18. Moresby Island 19. Sidney 20. Victoria Airport 21. James Island 22. Sidney Island 23. Turn Point Light Station 24. Waldron Island 25. Orcas Island 26. Roche Harbor 27. San Juan Island 28. Chatham Islands 29. Discovery Island 30. Trial Islands 31. Victoria Harbour Heliport 32. Seattle-Boeing Field

Everett

Seattle 32

* This map is not intended for navigation

PRECISION HEALTH HAPPENS HERE AND HERE

AND HERE, TOO!

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ALS

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IN-FLIGHT REVIEW | WINTER 2026 AND HERE

genomebc.ca/impact

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