“With our partners, Whitecap will quickly expand the species we can ship live and fresh and the destinations that we will service as a collective group. Timing could not be better given the recent large increase in Atlantic cod quotas, so this species will be a big part of our future shipments.”

Mark Wheaton, General Manager of Eastern Fish Markets, underscored the launch’s importance in shaping the province’s identity in the global seafood industry.

“It’s a milestone for the Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster fishery – the beginning of finally selling Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster as ‘Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster’ and not having our lobster branded as someone else’s once we sell it. To the harvesters that continue to support Eastern Fish Markets with Grade A quality lobster, my hat is off to every single one. Without this product, this could not have been possible.”

Eastern Fish Markets specialize in premium Newfoundland & Labrador wild lobster sourced from first-class harvesters who ensure superior quality.

“Our team of harvesters source these animals from the cold, clean waters of the North Atlantic, which are considered to be one of the healthiest ocean habitats in the world. We are committed to community values, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability, emphasizing careful handling of live harvest to maintain quality.”

Raymond Collins, President of PF Collins, stressed the importance of speed and precision in maintaining that quality.

“When global trade shifts overnight, the only solution is to move faster. This project gives our seafood exporters a direct runway to premium international markets. PF Collins is proud to support the logistics planning, aircraft bookings, and freight forwarding documentation that help get our province’s top-tier seafood into the hands of global buyers quickly and efficiently.”

Roche added that this project is a powerful example of how public and private sectors can work together to achieve a common goal. The project partners acknowledge the valuable advice and support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, and the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

“Every participating partner played an essential role in turning this vision into reality, and the project stands as a model for future collaborations focused on sustainability, innovation, and economic growth,” he said.

While the inaugural flight was focused on lobster destined for the Spanish market, the broader strategy includes expansion into France, the United Kingdom, and eventually, high-value Asian markets like South Korea and Japan. This plan not only provides short-term protection for Newfoundland and Labrador’s seafood industry but also creates the opportunity for the province to establish long-lasting, resilient trade corridors for the years ahead. The consortium looks forward to delivering premium-quality, fresh North Atlantic cod from Newfoundland and Labrador to many customers across Europe this fall.

As the Gander seafood hub continues to evolve, the success of this pilot project marks the beginning of a new chapter – one where Newfoundland and Labrador seafood is no longer just ocean-harvested, but also runway-ready.