The B.C. government is boosting a number of airports to support economic growth across the province, including in East Kootenay.
This year, the Province has invested $6.2 million through the BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) to support 16 airport upgrades throughout B.C., and Fairmont Hot Springs has received $48,688 to upgrade weather monitoring in the CYCZ airport.
“Through the B.C. Air Access Program, we’re supporting upgrades to airports that will improve access for vital communities across our province,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “These improvements to our rural and regional airports will help keep British Columbians connected and our economy on the move.”
Other recipients include $2 million to expand the Comox Valley Airport runway ramp, as well as $1.2 million towards building a permanent heliport in Tipella. The BCAAP has committed over $70 million in grants to 80 air facilities since 2017.
“From wildfire suppression to air-ambulance operations, from high-value tourism to connecting Indigenous and rural communities within our province and beyond, the B.C. Air Access Program supports our economy and society,” said Cathy Press, chair of the BC Aviation Council.
The CYCZ is operated by the Columbia Valley Airport Society. It is the only facility between Golden and Cranbrook that offers full-service options 24 hours a day, welcoming all aircraft, including Boeing 737s, year-round.
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