Posted at 11:00 a.m.
Lately we hear endless horror stories of canceled or delayed flights, with passengers being abandoned by major airlines. Here is a much more positive story that we share.
On Monday, July 25, after a great week at SEPAQ Anticosti and Auberge Port-Menier, we headed to the tiny airport with 44 other people, ready to leave for Quebec or Montreal. We boarded and started taxiing on the tarmac in the small Air Inuit plane, then stopped. The pilot announces to us that there is a problem with a dial of the plane and that he cannot take off. After several attempts to resolve the problem, the verdict is in: “We need another plane and it won’t arrive until tomorrow. »
It’s high summer season, and the hostel and other lodging sites are fully booked. Everyone was wondering where to spend the night. This is where the magic started to happen. The SEPAQ and Air Inuit teams immediately got to work.
Calling every inn, camp, lodge and even residents they knew well looking for vacant rooms. In short, they found accommodation for the 44 passengers, the pilot, the co-pilot and the flight attendant. The next morning everyone was talking about how happy they were with where they slept. Some even stayed with local residents, which only added to their vacation experience on the island. We even stayed with a SEPAQ employee who was out of town.
A mechanical problem like that of Air Inuit is beyond the control of the airline and even less the responsibility of SEPAQ. As far as we know, the airline and SEPAQ had no obligation to work tirelessly to find a solution for all of us. These employees went above and beyond what we have ever experienced or heard of. We have seen SEPAQ immediately take the initiative to deliver snacks and drinks to the small airport, baggage handlers stay in the evening after their shift, SEPAQ managers serve meals, clean tables, offer pillows and the bedding. The inn’s kitchen team has adapted to be able to serve supper and breakfast to the 44 additional guests. We applaud all of their efforts. What beautiful and inspiring teamwork!
When a situation goes wrong, people are usually quick to complain. Well, on July 25, the staff took an unfortunate situation and turned it into a great experience for everyone. The photo accompanying this text shows everyone who agreed that those involved went above and beyond to help.
A very special thank you to Jacinthe Poulin, Eric Filion, Daniel Lévesque, Vicky Bélanger, Samuel (airport employee), William (airport employee), Sarah-Maude and the employees of L’Auberge Port-Menier.
On behalf of all passengers, thank you for your leadership.