Six airports in British Columbia are set to receive increased funding from the federal government to enhance their aging infrastructure. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon emphasized the importance of local and regional airports as essential connections for many communities in the province. The investments aim to ensure safe and efficient airport operations, enhance the transportation of people and goods, and strengthen the links that connect British Columbians to employment opportunities, services, and the broader country.
Specifically, four airports in northern British Columbia will benefit from the funding. Masset Airport in Haida Gwaii is slated to receive over $10.85 million for improvements to airfield pavement and drainage. Prince Rupert Airport will receive nearly $3.76 million for the rehabilitation of airfield lighting, while Fort Nelson’s Northern Rockies Regional Airport will be granted $552,600 for the replacement of runway approach lighting. Additionally, Smithers Airport is set to receive around $3.62 million to upgrade airfield electrical equipment.
Bella Coola Airport on the Central Coast is also included in the funding allocation, with an allocation of nearly $3.4 million for the renovation of the runway, taxiway, and apron. Further south, Kamloops Airport will benefit from almost $1.35 million to enhance and replace its electrical infrastructure. The funding originates from Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program.
James Lindsey, chair of the Regional Community Airports of Canada, emphasized the crucial role that regional airports play in supporting the Canadian economy. He highlighted that these airports provide essential services to communities, including facilitating healthcare access, economic development, natural resource exploration, and tourism. Lindsey, who also serves as the president and CEO of the Thompson Regional Airport Authority in Manitoba, pointed out that regional airports are vital for transporting workers to job sites, patients to medical facilities, and supporting industries such as tourism and fishing.
Despite their significance, Lindsey noted that regional airports face financial sustainability challenges due to the high costs associated with maintaining modern equipment. He stressed the critical importance of the funding and infrastructure upgrades in ensuring the sustainability of communities across Canada.