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The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, has announced an investment of $1,000,313 for the replacement of a runway sweeper and the purchase of an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle (ARFF) at the Nanaimo Airport.
The runway sweeper will ensure the timely and effective removal of snow, slush and ice from runways and taxiways, and the ARFF will greatly enhance emergency response capability at the airport.
Funding comes from Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP).
Quick Facts
- To date, through ACAP, the Nanaimo Airport has received over $4.7 million in funding for 18 safety projects, including this announcement.
- Previous projects included the upgrade of the electrical distribution system; the rehabilitation of pavement on the runway and taxiways; the installation of wildlife control fencing; and the purchase of a snow plow truck and snowblower.
- Since the program started, the Government of Canada has invested more than $626 million for 770 projects at 174 airports across the country.
“The Nanaimo Airport is a vital gateway for local residents, businesses, trade and tourism. This investment will enhance safety for travellers and residents while supporting productivity and economic growth in the region,” said The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport.
“The record-setting increase in passenger numbers in the past year underscores why safety continues to be the highest priority at the Nanaimo Airport. This additional equipment, purchased through ACAP, will ensure we can continue to provide the safest environment possible for our users. The Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting vehicle will allow Nanaimo Airport to have on-site emergency response for any situation, while the runway sweeper will further improve runway conditions during all-weather events,” said Mike Hooper, president and chief executive officer, Nanaimo Airport Commission.
