MLA Leonard says funding for local airports will improve services for passengers and businesses

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COURTENAY – New Democrat MLA Ronna-Rae Leonard says funding for two local airports will help ensure a better experience for the people and businesses who rely on the airports.

“These air facilities help put the Comox Valley on the map for tourism, while also providing essential transportation for residents and supporting our local businesses,” says Ronna-Rae Leonard. “I’m glad to see this funding will help ensure better healthcare services for people while also making facilities more environmentally friendly.”

The following local airports in Courtenay-Comox are receiving funding from the B.C. Air Access program:

  • Courtenay Airpark- $131,450 to pave the air ambulance patient transfer area and for a float plan dock replacement.
  • Comox Valley Airport- $374,550 to install solar power and provide electrification of ground support equipment and utility vehicles.

“The funding will help us progress on our sustainability commitment by supporting our efforts to reduce our emissions through the use of solar power and reduction in the use of fossil fuels.” said Comox Valley Airport CEO, Mike Atkins. “While we have already achieved carbon neutral status, these projects will assist us in minimizing offsets and aid in the ongoing incremental steps necessary to reach our goal of net zero emissions”

“This funding from the provincial government for paving and a float dock replacement will help the Courtenay Airpark continue to deliver life-saving medical services by Air Ambulance Helicopter to people here in the Comox Valley, and improve our floatplane facilities ,” said Ray Henault, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Courtenay Airpark Association.

Across the province, the BCAAP will support 40 projects at 29 air facilities, improving safety, security, and passenger facilities. Projects include runway extensions, improved runway lighting, pavement improvements, terminal enhancements, and better fire protection.

Since its launch in 2015, the BCAAP grant program has committed $66.8 million to infrastructure projects at 71 air facilities.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023MOTI0068-000777