The province is investing $19.3 million into Nova Scotia’s two largest airports.
The Halifax International Airport Authority says the $13 million pegged for Halifax Stanfield International Airport will help attract more planes and passengers to the province.
HIAA Vice-President Marie Manning says the funding will be a huge help in the province’s pandemic recovery.
“We’re grateful for this additional financial support from the provincial government to help us re-establish a strong air service network for our communities,” Manning says in a news release. “Air service connections will be critical in supporting regional economic recovery, and now more than ever, we need to partner with our airlines to ensure service is returned to our region in a timely manner, allowing our tourism markets to gain back the momentum they’ve lost since COVID-19.
Meantime, the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport will receive $6.3-million.
Both airports will see the investment go towards an Air Access Fund, which is used to offer incentives to airlines to establish new routes to the airports.
However, the bulk of the money for the Cape Breton airport has been earmarked for infrastructure upgrades.
Cape Breton East MLA Brian Comer says it will ensure the long-term success of the airport.
“Our airports play an important role in growing our provincial and local economies, creating good jobs and serving as essential transportation, business and tourism links,” Comer says in a news release. “On Cape Breton Island, the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport is a vital regional hub that connects us to the world. This funding will help ensure the airport is positioned for long-term success.”
The infrastructure upgrades at the Sydney airport include runway repairs, upgrades to the main terminal, and paving of the main road to the airport.
