Government of Canada investing in safety at the West Kootenay Regional Airport

The investment of $1,296,811 includes installing runway indication lights and an omni-directional approach lighting system

An Air Canada Express airplane preparing to take-off at the West Kootenay Regional Airport in Castlegar. — Photo courtesy City Guides

Canadians, tourists and businesses benefit from safe and well-maintained airports. From visiting friends and family, to travelling to medical appointments, or getting goods to market, we rely on our local airports to support and sustain vibrant communities. These airports also provide essential air services including community resupply, air ambulance, search and rescue and forest fire response.

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, announced a Government of Canada investment to rehabilitate the airside lighting and electrical systems at the West Kootenay Regional Airport in Castlegar, British Columbia.

The investment of $1,296,811 includes installing runway indication lights and an omni-directional approach lighting system; replacing constant current regulators and a standby diesel generator with fuel tank; and installing a runway precision approach path indicator system.

Well maintained airside lighting and electrical systems ensure safe usage by aircraft, passengers, and crews during airport operations. These updated systems can also lower energy costs, improve visibility and reduce costs related to maintenance and repair.

Quotes

“Our Government recognizes that local airports are major contributors to the economic growth and social well-being of smaller communities. In addition to supporting travel and tourism, local airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and emerging resource development sectors. These investments will improve access to safe, efficient and accessible air transportation options, and will help us deliver on our promise to build safer, healthier and stronger communities across Canada.” —The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport

Quick facts

• This funding comes from Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP).
• Since the Program started in 1995, the Government of Canada has invested more than $882.7 million for 948 projects at 186 airports across the country.
• To date, the West Kootenay Regional Airport has received more than $6 million in ACAP funding for nine safety projects, including this airside lighting and electrical systems project, new snow-clearing equipment and the rehabilitation of the runway, apron and taxiway.