Juneau-Whitehorse flights not yet cleared for takeoff

Alaska Seaplanes has run into delays in launching itsproposed JuneauWhitehorse seaplane route.

The airline first announced the new routein March. At the time, the companyhoped to have scheduled flights between the two cities starting this month.

Carl Rameth, general manager of Alaska Seaplanes, said the airlineis still waiting for Transport Canada to issue the companya Foreign Air Operator Certificate which it needs for an international flight.

Rameth said they had hoped to receive the certificatetwo weeks ago.

Until Alaska Seaplanes receives the approval,potential passengersareleft towait.

Ramethhas said the route has been met with lots of interest from people in Juneau. The two capitals are both popular tourist destinations, and are not connected by road.

Ramethpreviously told CBC that theflight wouldtake approximately 45 minutes, and cost around$299USplus taxes and fees.

When approved, the airline plans to fly between the two cities three times a week until September.