Canadian government funding for six smaller BC gateways

Canada’s Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, Steven MacKinnon, has announced that six smaller airports across British Columbia will receive a total of C$23.5 million in funding to support critical infrastructure improvements.

The funding, through Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program, will support projects that enhance airport safety and reliability, helping ensure these airports can continue providing safe and efficient air transportation services for passengers, air operators, and the communities they serve.

The airports receiving funding are Prince Rupert ($3,756,600 to rehabilitate airfield lighting); Northern Rockies Regional ($552,600 to replace runway approach lighting): Masset ($10,852,330 to improve airfield pavement and drainage); Smithers ($3,624,612 to rehabilitate airfield electrical equipment); Bella Coola ($3,396,100 to rehabilitate the runway, taxiway, and apron); and Kamloops ($1,349,057 upgrade and replace electrical infrastructure).

Together, these projects will replace and improve aging airport infrastructure across British Columbia, from runways and drainage systems to lighting and electrical equipment.

The investments are designed to help reduce maintenance costs, improve operational reliability, and ensure airports can continue to meet the demands of communities, passengers, businesses, and air operators for years to come.

“Local and regional airports are lifelines for many communities across British Columbia,” stated MacKinnon.

“These investments will help maintain safe and efficient airport operations, improve the movement of people and goods, and strengthen the transportation links that connect British Columbians to jobs, services, and the rest of the country.

“By investing in our airports, we are building a stronger and more resilient Canada.”