Air Inuit, a regional airline owned by the Inuit of Nunavik, has successfully crafted a distinct brand image based on a Canadian goose. This branding initiative was unveiled in 2014 with the help of top Canadian brand strategists and reflects the carrier’s unique operating model and market.
Established in 1978, Air Inuit started its operations with a single de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver aircraft. The acquisition of Chaparal Charters in 1984 expanded its fleet and allowed for more passenger routes. Today, Air Inuit serves over 20 destinations from its main base at Kuujjuaq Airport in Quebec, including major locations such as Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport.
The current fleet consists of 34 aircrafts including models like Beechcraft Super King Air, Boeing 737-200s, and de Havilland Canada Dash 8s. Notably, the airline is phasing out its Boeing 737-200 Combi aircraft in favor of newer Boeing 737-800s that offer greater capacity.
Boeing Field Service Engineer Bob Bogash emphasized the significance of the Boeing 737 to Arctic communities: “The importance of the 737 to people in the High Arctic…cannot be overstated.”
In terms of branding, Marc-André Chaput and FEED were instrumental in designing Air Inuit’s logo. The burnt orange goose design symbolizes respect for nature and cultural heritage. As explained by Air Inuit: “The Escher inspired orange and white goose design was created to reflect the Inuit’s love and respect of nature…It was also intended to underscore the company’s distinctive corporate culture…”
Additionally, FEED collaborated with typeface designer Jean-Baptiste Levée to create “Air Inuit Sans,” a typeface used across various platforms within the company. This includes displaying traditional syllabics alongside roman glyphs to emphasize Inuit ownership.
Executive Chairman Noah Tayara celebrated their progress saying: “We can all be proud of this vital service which is celebrating 45 years…Air Inuit is demonstrating leadership as it grows…”
With connections offered through major airports like Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), passengers have access to global destinations via partnerships with airlines such as Air Transat and Air France.
Overall, Air Inuit’s strategic branding efforts ensure it remains instantly recognizable while representing regional culture effectively.
