Release date: 
Monday, May 31, 2010

May 31, 2010 (Ottawa) – The Ottawa International Airport Authority is excited to announce that it has a new partner –the Ottawa Senators Foundation.

The Ottawa International Airport will host its fifth annual Plane Pull for charity on Saturday, Sept. 11, at the Ottawa Airport. The Plane Pull raises funds for charitable initiatives in Ottawa and Gatineau, and is a key fundraiser for Project Clear Skies, the Airport Authority’s charitable giving program. Funds raised in the 2010 edition of the event will be shared equally between Project Clear Skies and the Sens Foundation.

The event features teams of 25 people that pull a FedEx A310 aircraft a total of 12 feet. The team that pulls the aircraft the fastest will be crowned Plane Pull 5 champions. The 2009 event was a huge success, with 34 teams competing for top prize, while raising nearly $45,000. Fundraising targets for 2010 have not yet been set, but the airport authority hopes to have 50 teams register for the event.

“Having the Sens Foundation on board will add a new level of excitement to the Plane Pull,” said Paul Benoit, Ottawa International Airport Authority President and CEO. “We look forward to working together to raise funds that will go toward important causes in our community.”

“We’re very pleased about this new partnership with the Airport Authority,” said Sens Foundation President Danielle Robinson. “The Plane Pull is a great event and we’re excited about the opportunity to enhance its success and to make an increased contribution in the areas we support.”

“When our team pulls in the same direction it often results in a win and with the Airport Authority and the Sens Foundation working together we expect this event to be a big success for the community,” said Cyril Leeder, President of Senators Sports and Entertainment.

For more information concerning Project Clear Skies and Plane Pull 5, visit www.ottawa-airport.ca.

OMCIAA operates Ottawa International Airport without government subsidies under a 60-year lease transfer agreement with Transport Canada. The OMCIAA’s mandate is to manage, operate and develop airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region.

For more information, please contact:
Krista Kealey, [email protected]
Brad Weir, [email protected]