The Ministry of Transportation and Transit announced May 27 more than $8 million from the B.C. Air Access Program will be shared among 18 airport upgrade projects in the province, including three facilities in the East Kootenay.

Canadian Rockies International Airport is getting $729,660 for space capacity upgrades; Fairmont Hot Springs Airport is getting $114,472 for a skid steer loader and attachments; and $17,250 is going to Elk Valley Airport for pavement improvement.

“The B.C. Air Access Program strengthens local economies and supports good jobs, while improving safety for people living in and travelling through rural and regional communities,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit.

“This program recognizes that smaller airports help connect communities and are essential for the people throughout B.C.”

“This program has a significant positive impact for communities throughout the province,” said Cathy Press, chair, BC Aviation Council. “It provides funding for a variety of projects from lighting improvements to facility expansions, which will benefit communities and residents for years to come.”

The program is open to facilities that serve fewer than one million passengers per year. BCAAP opens intake for all eligible applicants from November until January each year.

B.C. is home to more than 300 public airports, heliports and water aerodromes.

Lead image: Canadian Rockies International Airport.  e-KNOW file photos

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