Windsor International Airport is set to undergo significant upgrades, including refurbishment of its primary runway and the acquisition of a new aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle, thanks to a sizable investment of nearly $7.5 million from the federal government. The funding will be utilized for various enhancements such as asphalt rehabilitation and upgraded edge lighting on runway 07-25, as outlined in a recent government announcement.
The airport’s President and CEO anticipates that the project will commence towards the latter part of the upcoming year, with no specific completion timeline provided. Emphasizing the importance of minimizing disruptions to air traffic, Mark Galvin assured that proactive measures are being taken, considering that it has been approximately three decades since the last rehabilitation efforts were carried out.
During a press briefing to unveil the funding, Galvin expressed the airport’s commitment to proactive maintenance practices while highlighting the necessity of staying ahead of infrastructure needs. The funding announcement coincided with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s advocacy for private investment in Canada’s major airports, aiming to redirect resources towards smaller regional airports to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Galvin welcomed initiatives that promote regional connectivity and attract investments, acknowledging the challenges faced by regional airports amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Windsor Airport’s development aligns with the government’s focus on bolstering regional connectivity and optimizing supply chain logistics, as emphasized by Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Mike Kelloway.
Kelloway underscored the significance of robust transportation infrastructure for facilitating efficient movement of goods and people across the country. Galvin noted the gradual growth experienced by Windsor Airport, citing successful seasonal services to Calgary, thriving flights to Ottawa operated by Porter Airlines, and the continued strong performance of Air Canada flights. He also mentioned the return of Air Transat’s additional sun destination flight and expressed a commitment to exploring further opportunities for the airport’s development.