Canada-headquartered Makivik Corporation and the Inuvialuit Corporate Group (ICG) have signed a definitive agreement to merge their operating arms, respectively, First Air and Canadian North in order to improve air services across the Arctic. Following the receipt of government regulatory approvals, Makivik and ICG will proceed to complete the merger and the parties expect to complete the transaction by the end of 2018.

The proposed pan-Arctic airline will operate under the name Canadian North and aircraft will feature the new First Air livery, including its Inukshuk logo. Headquarters for the proposed airline will be located in Ottawa.

The merger will result in significant service improvements, including the expansion of its charter business, particularly when related to Alberta's natural resources and the development of the region's tourist sector.

Inuvialuit Development Corporation chair Patrick Gruben says: "We are proud of Canadian North's track record of providing safe, stable air service to customers in the North. This exciting milestone in our partnership with Makivik represents a joint commitment to continue providing air service excellence, a most vital lifeline, to Northerners across the Arctic region.”