- Details
- By Tribal Business News Staff
- Tourism
The Puyallup Tribe of Indians expanded its transportation portfolio by extending seasonal seaplane service with Kenmore Air, adding international flights between Tacoma and Victoria, British Columbia.
The extension builds on a partnership established in 2022, when the Washington-based tribe and Kenmore Air opened seaplane operations in South Puget Sound on tribal lands along Ruston Way in Tacoma.
"The Puyallup Tribe is growing on the international stage," the Tribal Council said in a statement. "This extension of Kenmore Air's seaplane service reflects our ongoing commitment to providing accessible, efficient, and scenic travel options that connect our residents with the wider Pacific Northwest region and beyond."
The expanded service aligns with the tribe's broader economic development strategy. In the past year-and-a-half, the tribe launched Tahoma Construction Services, acquired a candy manufacturer, and invested in a battery maker planning a factory near Tacoma.
Matt Wadhwani, CEO of Puyallup Tribal Enterprises and tribal financial officer, said the Kenmore partnership creates job opportunities for tribal members, including aircraft maintenance, terminal operations, and flight training.
"When we partner with the right people, we make great things happen," he said. "Two years ago, we said we intended to go global, and here we are."
The seaplane service, starting May 15, will provide daily flights from Tacoma's Ruston Way to Victoria's Inner Harbour, with stops in Friday Harbor. The route adds to existing service to the San Juan Islands. Fares start at $199 one-way.
The Puyallup Tribe, whose name means "generous people," employs thousands in Pierce County through ventures including the Emerald Queen Casino, its luxury hotel, and its expanding economic portfolio.
