Could you introduce us to Octant Aviation’s new Cardinal Aéro division?

Cardinal Aéro is a division of Octant Aviation that manages air logistics across remote and northern regions, with strong expertise supporting mining companies, among others. We do not just book flights: we build and run reliable, end-to-end logistics programs that move workers safely, efficiently, and on time. From daily operations to long-term planning, we act as a strategic extension of our clients’ teams.

Our role includes organizing flight schedules, managing crew rotations, adapting to last-minute changes, and keeping track of performance and costs. In practice, how do Cardinal Aéro and Octant Aviation partner with mining companies to help control costs, measure performance and ensure resilience in their air logistics operations?

Our work often starts with the development or modernization of airport infrastructure — from runway improvements to terminal upgrades — making remote sites accessible and safe for ongoing operations.

Cardinal Aéro then ensures that air transportation runs smoothly. We design and manage tailored air logistics programs that align with production schedules, workforce needs, and cost control goals.

We provide clear performance indicators so our clients can optimize flight frequency, seat utilization, and operational efficiency. Instead of reacting to rising costs, they understand them, adjust in real time, and plan ahead — with full transparency.

And when disruptions occur — due to weather, mechanical issues, or regulatory constraints — we are ready with contingency plans. Not just plan B, but plans C, D and beyond. Thanks to our team’s field experience and constant coordination, we adjust quickly and maintain continuity. Across Octant's consulting services and Cardinal Aéro and Akila divisions, what can we expect in terms developments in the future?

Akila provides real-time monitoring tools to track operations and ensure Safety Management System compliance at the airport. And Cardinal Aéro brings it all to life on the ground, handling the day-to-day air logistics of moving workers safely and efficiently.

We are also actively developing new tools — smarter planning software, custom KPIs, predictive routing etc. What role can air logistics management play in addressing the challenges posed by Canada’s mining talent shortage?

A well-designed travel experience is a retention tool. An employee who travels comfortably, on time, and without unnecessary delays is much more likely to stay.

We work hand-in-hand with mining HR teams to create a seamless, efficient air travel experience for their teams. Charter flights are a major advantage here: they are customized to work schedules, save time, and improve overall well-being. Many workers come from different parts of the province, and we coordinate their journey from home base to the mine site in the most efficient and cost-effective way.

Beyond logistics, we also act as trusted facilitators in discussions between mining companies and local communities or suppliers. Our long-standing presence in northern regions and strong relationships help us build bridges and support sustainable, people-first solutions. That trust is critical to sustainable success. How have women have overcome barriers to play an increasingly vital role in Canadian and global aviation?

For a long time, female leadership was seen as an exception. Today, it is recognized as a strength, one that brings collaboration, empathy, and a strategic outlook.

My approach is about bringing diverse expertise to the table and building strong, trust-based partnerships. At Octant Aviation and Cardinal Aéro, we have nurtured a culture that reflects this. Women are largely represented in our companies: operations managers, coordinators, even pilots — and that diversity of perspective is helping to move our industry forward. What are your key strategic priorities and goals?

We are continuing to invest in modernizing infrastructure, developing digital performance tools, and improving data accessibility so our clients can make faster, better-informed decisions. But beyond the tools, our main goal is to keep strengthening our role as a trusted, long-term partner. We understand the mining industry from the inside, and our support goes far beyond logistics.

We already act as a key expert in air logistics for Canada’s mining sector and we intend to keep leading by providing not just services, but real operational insight and impact.

Above all, we are staying focused on our core objective: becoming and maintaining our position as a true operational ally to Canada’s mining industry.