It seems as though some things are just meant to be. That’s certainly how it’s shaping up for Chris and Stephanie Quinn, the new owners at one of Bella Coola’s longstanding businesses - Bella Coola Air.
“We actually had been looking at properties in Bella Coola for 2 years previous to buying the business,” said Chris. “We knew we wanted to get out of the city and start a family in a small mountain town, so when Bella Coola Air became available, it seemed too good to be true.”
Originally from Penticton, B.C., Chris is an airline licensed pilot with 16 years of flying experience. His most recent position was that of Medi-Vac Captain in Alberta, where he flew all over the province transporting patients. Before that, he flew bush planes in Ontario and Yellowknife.
He met his wife Stephanie, originally from Edmonton, at the Edmonton City Airport, where she was working as a customer service representative. Between the two of them, she describes the purchase of Bella Coola Air as a “perfect fit.”
Bella Coola Air offers general charters, along with sightseeing tours, on the Central Coast. Their company utilizes a C-172 on wheels and a C-185 on amphibious floats, and when asked about the work environment, Chris described his new job as “spectacular.”
“It’s hard to put into words,” he said. “Going out every day to work is like flying through Jurassic Park. There’s no end to the wilderness. I get to see the ocean, glaciers, the various kinds of wildlife, and of course great people. It’s amazing!”
“We are excited to offer continued service to the community and surrounding areas” Chris said. Longtime employee Leon will be staying on and former owner Wayne Sissons will continue to fly during the transitional period. You can find out more about Bella Coola Air through their website at www.bellacoolaair.com or call 250 982 2545