On April 27, 2025, Air Canada operated a special Boeing 777 flight, AC34, highlighting Indigenous culture and inclusion. The flight’s crew, consisting of nine Indigenous flight attendants and a pilot, welcomed members of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) traveling from Vancouver to the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference.
Significance of the Flight
The flight symbolized a commitment to Indigenous representation within the aviation sector. Prior to boarding, Mary Point, the Director of Indigenous Relations at Vancouver Airport Authority, performed a traditional cedar brushing ceremony onboard, a gesture designed to bless the journey. This was followed by warm welcoming remarks from key figures, including Air Canada’s Jim Hemsworth and Steve Saddleback from FNMPC. Mary Point then sang the traditional Musqueam Paddle Song, emphasizing cultural connection and community.
Advancing Indigenous Initiatives
Jim Sa’ke’j Hemsworth, a member of the Mi’gmaq Nation and Air Canada’s Manager of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation, spoke about the importance of this initiative. The collaborative efforts between Air Canada and the FNMPC focus on economic growth and support for Indigenous communities. Jim emphasized that this flight embodies progress in fostering Indigenous inclusion and honoring cultures within the aviation industry.
Expressing Gratitude
Reflecting the values of Indigenous communities, Jim demonstrated gratitude toward the Musqueam Nation for their hospitality and expressed appreciation to the Indigenous crew for ensuring passenger safety. “A heartfelt thanks to our Indigenous crew for ensuring our safety throughout today’s journey. In doing so, you honor a legacy of care and protection that our ancestors upheld when the first Europeans arrived on these lands,” he noted.
Air Canada’s Commitment to Reconciliation
Air Canada recognizes that Reconciliation is an ongoing journey and is committed to fostering respectful relationships with Indigenous communities. The airline’s extensive network traverses numerous treaty lands and unceded territories across North America. By acknowledging the ancestral lands of the Indigenous Peoples they serve, Air Canada’s initiatives reflect a broader commitment to cultural respect and collaboration.
The Role of the FNMPC
The First Nations Major Projects Coalition plays a crucial role in supporting Indigenous communities by providing them with the tools necessary for economic advancement and environmental stewardship. Their collaboration with Air Canada serves to illuminate the professional achievements of Indigenous individuals in diverse fields, particularly in aviation, underscoring the importance of representation.
Overall, the special flight not only celebrated Indigenous peoples but also instilled a sense of belonging and community among all passengers. This initiative is a landmark example of how organizations can successfully incorporate cultural values and inclusivity into everyday operations, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive future.
