Blue Navigators offer friendly smiles, aid at busy Nanaimo Airport

The airport’s customer service team works relentlessly to make the travel experience as comfortable as possible. Thanks to them, construction has created minimal disruption even during a period of record passenger volume.

The Blue Navigators volunteers are a big part of Nanaimo Airport’s customer service. Known for their blue vests, they provide help and hospitality to airport users in the terminal. And they’ve gone out of their way to create a friendly atmosphere for travellers during the expansion work.

“We really appreciate the efforts of the Blue Navigators,” says airport President and CEO Mike Hooper. “It’s challenging to run a busy airport while undergoing major construction and they’ve made sure our customers are always taken care of.”

The ambassadors assist with information or travel-related needs. They provide special assistance for travellers with disabilities and mobility impairments. They answer questions about everything from parking to finding lost credit cards. And they serve as tourism ambassadors. They share information about Vancouver Island and maintain the airport’s travel information centre.

“Our Blue Navigators volunteers help take the stress out of travel. Their warm, friendly greetings are a great way to begin or end a trip,” says Laurie Hawthornthwaite, Nanaimo Airport Customer Service Coordinator.

Last year, 38 volunteers gave 5,450 hours of their time. Since the program began in June 2012, volunteers have been on duty for a remarkable 28,000 hours.

More volunteers with customer service experience are welcome to join the team. It’s an ideal role for retirees or high school and university students interested in volunteering in their community. To learn more about becoming a Blue Navigator, please contact Laurie Hawthornthwaite at 250-924-2157 Ext 1210.