Canadians, businesses, and visitors rely on safe and well-maintained airports to stay connected and keep people and goods moving. Local and regional airports are vital links for rural and remote communities, supporting access to health care, emergency response services, business opportunities, and essential travel.
Today, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced that the Government of Canada is investing over $23.5 million through Transport Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program to support critical infrastructure improvements at six airports across British Columbia.
The funding 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 Airport
- $3,756,600 to rehabilitate airfield lighting.
Northern Rockies Regional (Fort Nelson) Airport
- $552,600 to replace runway approach lighting.
Masset Airport
- $10,852,330 to improve airfield pavement and drainage.
Smithers Airport
- $3,624,612 to rehabilitate airfield electrical equipment.
Bella Coola Airport
- $3,396,100 to rehabilitate the runway, taxiway, and apron.
Kamloops Airport
- $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. These investments will 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.
By investing in local and regional airports, the Government of Canada is helping maintain safe and reliable air connections while supporting stronger, more connected communities across British Columbia.
