The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Provincial Emergency Operation Centre have begun transporting essential goods by helicopter service to the Coast of Bays region today (Monday, August 8) due to the closure of the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360).

Two helicopters began transporting essential goods between central Newfoundland and Harbour Breton and flights have been arranged to continue tomorrow (Tuesday, August 9) and for the remainder of the emergency, as needed.

The Sound of Islay, which departed Lewisporte for Fortune on Sunday, August 7, has been delayed by mechanical difficulties and is in St. John’s for repairs. An update will be provided when repairs are completed.

Inquiries regarding transporting essential supplies via helicopter can be arranged by contacting the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre at 1-833-845-0775.

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Media contacts
Brian Scott
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca

Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca