The federal government has announced more than $18 million in funding to help the Kelowna International Airport recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to support continued air services and important transportation infrastructure projects at the airport.
To help ensure safe airport operations for aircraft, passengers and crew, the airport will receive more than $15.2 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support:
- the expansion of the airport’s combined operations building;
- the replacement of sections of the terminal building roof;
- upgrades to airfield lighting infrastructure;
- the construction of runway end safety areas (RESA); and
- the establishment of facilities and modified airport infrastructure to facilitate improved flow and management of air travellers and airport employees related to COVID-19 testing and screening.
In addition to the funding for the critical infrastructure projects, the Government of Canada also provided the Kelowna International Airport with just over $3 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Kelowna and surrounding communities.
“As we move forward with the safe and gradual return of activity in the aviation sector in a way that continues to support the health, safety, and security of all Canadians, it will be imperative that we continue to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector. These critical investments will allow the Kelowna International Airport to invest in the infrastructure and tools needed to help re-invigorate the aviation industry and allow Canadians to feel safe and secure when they travel,” said The Honourable Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport.
The Airport Relief Fund, launched in May 2021, provided $64.8 million in funding in 2021-2022 for targeted airports whose 2019 revenues were less than $250 million. In August 2021, funding in the amount of $81.6 million was announced under the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support Canada’s major airports with investments in COVID-19 testing and screening infrastructure.
