ONTARIO- Northern Pacific Airways (7H), the highly anticipated new airline, has successfully launched its inaugural flight from Ontario International Airport (ONT) to Las Vegas (LAS).
After overcoming regulatory hurdles and delays, the carrier commenced its commercial services this afternoon. Subsequently, marking a significant milestone in the company’s 719-day journey to take flight.
Northern Pacific Airways Completes First Flight
Rob McKinney, the CEO of FLOAT Alaska LLC, the parent company of Northern Pacific Airways, shared that launching the airline has been a long-term endeavor.
McKinney and his team navigated the complex landscape of regulatory approvals. Subsequently, culminated in a pivotal moment when the Federal Aviation Administration granted Northern Pacific its Operations Specifications on July 8.
Just days later, the inaugural flight took to the skies, showcasing the realization of their vision.
Northern Pacific’s first flight departed from Ontario International Airport in Southern California. Subsequently, it landed at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
This route choice may seem unconventional for a startup airline; however, it reflects Northern Pacific’s strategy to target an underserved market between Ontario and Las Vegas initially.
While their ultimate objective is to connect passengers from the mainland United States to Asia via a stopover in Anchorage, Alaska, the airline recognized the potential in the Ontario-Las Vegas route.
Boeing 757 Powering the Airline
Northern Pacific selected the Boeing 757 as the backbone of its fleet, already acquiring four of these aircraft.
Adorned with a captivating livery designed by Edmond Huot, Chief Creative Officer at Forward Studio, the 757s have captured the attention of aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
Huot’s design further enhanced the distinctively recognizable Boeing 757 nose. Further featuring a unique black mask encircling the cockpit windows.
Huot explained that the mask was a deliberate attempt to modernize the iconic aircraft. Further adding character and paying homage to past airliner decals inspired by the symbolic orca whale.
Today’s flight utilized a 28-year-old Boeing 757, registered as N628NP, which underwent a complete interior retrofit by Northern Pacific.
The aircraft’s history includes prior service with US Airways (US) and American Airlines (AA) before being retired during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Maiden Flight
The departure of Flight 7H777 from Ontario International Airport experienced a slight delay of nearly one hour due to air traffic control operations at Harry Reid International Airport.
The scheduled departure time of 14:00 was adjusted to 14:57, and the flight arrived in Las Vegas at 15:37, marking the successful completion of the inaugural journey.
Celebratory Gate Ceremony Prior to boarding, Northern Pacific held a special ceremony at the gate in Ontario, featuring remarks from CEO Rob McKinney, Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the airport, and Josh Jones, Chairman of the Board at FLOAT Alaska LLC.
Passengers were presented with branded bags of Northern Pacific Airways and treated to plane-shaped cookies bearing the airline’s name, adding extra excitement to the inaugural flight experience.
Northern Pacific Airways’ first flight garnered significant attention. Subsequently, becoming the most tracked flight on the popular FlightRadar24 app.
Over 30,000 users tracked flight NH777 at one point, highlighting the interest and enthusiasm surrounding the airline’s launch.
As Northern Pacific Airways sets its sights on expanding its network and delivering exceptional passenger experiences, the successful inaugural flight from Ontario to Las Vegas represents a pivotal moment in the airline’s journey to become a leading player in the industry.
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