Fort McMurray: How evacuees were flown to safety

Tuesday, May 10, 2016, 12:07 PM - The devastating Fort McMurray fires forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes and in some cases there was no time to gather beloved furry friends. 

Since the initial evacuation, owners have slowly begun to reunite with their pets through animal rescue efforts such as Second Chance Animal Rescue Society and Alberta SPCA. There have been many volunteers donating kennels for the safe transportation of pets. 

Over 88,000 residents have been forced to evacuate their homes leaving thousands of pets homeless as well.

A modern day Noah’s Ark

Keith Mann, manager of flight operations at Suncor, was flying evacuees from the northern camps down to Calgary and Edmonton when he made the decision to let over 40 animals board his plane, according to the Toronto Star. Most airlines have strict rules when it comes to travelling with pets, but due to the circumstances, cats, dogs, turtles and even chinchillas were seated beside their owners on the way to safety. 

Several airlines stepped up to help transport pets with their owners. 

Oilsands camp evacuees safe and sound

Premier Rachel Notley announced on Sunday that all 25,000 people who fled to camps north of Fort McMurray have been successfully evacuated out of the region. The evacuees who fled north were forced to stay in oilsands facilities that were not suitable living quarters. 

Lillian Coleman, Suncor camp worker, told the Calgary Herald that it was an emotional sight when the evacuees first showed up to camp. WestJet has been busy transporting those evacuees, pets and oil workers safely to Edmonton and Calgary. 

Air Canada price-gouging?  

Air Canada has been accused of charging premium fare prices for customers booking last minute flights from Fort McMurray and Edmonton. The company said it was a result of their computerized revenue management system. For the full story click here. 

Sources: Toronto Star | Calgary Herald | Calgary Herald