March 13, 2018 ~ Springdale residents may hear some buzz overhead this week. Little Bay Islands Town Council has posted to social media that a temporary helicopter service is to be put into place from today to get residents on and off the island.
Universal Helicopter out of Gander will provide the air service.
An icebreaker has been recently assisting the ferry MV Hazel Mcisaac but it was decided that even with that assistance it was not safe enough for the ferry to travel to Little Bay Islands.
As well as ice conditions, “mechanical issues” on the ferry was also given as a reason that trips to the island cannot currently be made.
From the social media post:
“The ice breaker, George R. Perks allerted the Coast Guard of the situation and Ecareg Canada will not grant clearance as it poses a significant risk to the vessel and passengers.”
A temporary air service to Springdale was also put into place in April, 2017. The photo at TOP shows passengers waiting at Springdale during that time. (Green Bay Feed image)