Provincial Government Invests In Regional Airports

The provincial government has announced an investment of $1.13 million to support the development of a regional airport network. Vermilion’s airport was not included in the list of 10 airports that will be receiving funding.

Cold Lake Regional Airport, Whitecourt Airport, Lloydminster Municipal Airport, Peace River Regional Airport, Lethbridge Airport, High Level Airport, Red Deer Regional Airport, Medicine Hat Regional Airport, Grande Prairie Airport, and Fort McMurray International Airport will share the $1,129,424 that has been earmarked for this investment, which is intended to support the seamless movement of people and goods.

“Alberta’s aviation industry plays an important role in strengthening and diversifying our economy by expanding access to markets and creating jobs in the province,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors. “Regional airports are key assets in supporting the air sector and the movement of people. This investment will support the growth of Alberta’s regional airports and help restore and develop connections between our regional and international airports.”

The funding will be used to develop business cases and feasibility studies for improved airport infrastructure and air transportation, helping to identify and prioritize airports’ improvements and opportunities to increase economic competitiveness. Varying in scope and size, the projects include exploring airport certification to support scheduled air services, airport commercial development, commercial air services, hangar development and development of strategic business cases to restore regional airports’ positions as primary transportation hubs.

The projects will also support the creation of an air service business case to attract new airlines, analyzing highest-need routes, determining baseline capacities of airport infrastructure, and identifying capital asset rehabilitation and replacement requirements.

“Regional airports play a critical role in keeping Alberta connected and our economy growing. We are working with our partners to ensure all corners of the province are in the best position to attract job-creating investment and opportunities from around the world for all Albertans,” said Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade.

“Regional airports support economic development and serve as a hub for emergency services for rural Alberta. The funding provided today will benefit many rural communities and represents a strong step in maintaining Alberta’s rural transportation network,” said Kara Westerlund, Vice President of Rural Municipalities of Alberta.

The province remains committed to driving economic growth and diversifying the economy through the development of the aviation sector.