Nanaimo Airport’s Blue Navigators make travel easier

Nanaimo Airport ’s commitment to excellence in customer service is a pillar of its operation. It’s so important, in fact, that it’s laid out in YCD’s strategic plan.

The commitment is demonstrated daily by YCD’s Customer Care team and the volunteers of the Blue Navigators Ambassadors program. They help make the passenger experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

The Customer Care team is available daily from 4 a.m. through 11 p.m. They’re supplemented in the Air Terminal Building by the volunteers, easily recognized by their distinctive blue vests and smiling faces.

Passengers appreciate the help.

“Just had to share how impressed I am with the volunteers!” one airport user wrote on social media. “They were not only incredibly helpful with my trip out of YCD but also consistently friendly and upbeat throughout. Their positive attitude made a big difference on a flight that I was stressed about.”

Customer service commitment

“Our customer service is at the heart of everything we do,” says Dave Devana, president and CEO of Nanaimo Airport. “Our Customer Care team and Blue Navigators volunteers provide personalized support, prompt responses, and a warm welcome to all.”

The ambassadors program started in 2012. Since then volunteers have contributed more than 45,563 hours to help make travel comfortable by:

• Welcoming passengers and visitors
• Giving directions and answering questions about airport facilities and services
• Providing information on Vancouver Island features and attractions
• Providing assistance to passengers as needed, including helping guests with disabilities and/or mobility impairments

How to volunteer at YCD

The program currently has 30 active volunteers.

Applications to become an ambassador for next spring and summer are welcome. The role is perfect for retirees or students looking to give back to their community while gaining valuable customer service experience.

To learn more, contact Laurie Hawthornthwaite, YCD’s customer service coordinator, at 250-924-2157 Ext 1210 or customercare@ycd.ca.

Visit YCD.ca or follow @FlyYCD.