Extended runway officially opens at Halifax Stanfield

Atlantic Canada is embarking on a “new era in air service” with the grand opening of the newly extended main runway at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, says Airport Authority President & CEO Tom Ruth.

“The extension of our main runway provides Atlantic Canada with new economic development opportunities, particularly in the air cargo sector,” says Ruth. “This new era in air service was made possible by investments from both the federal and provincial governments. This development will create positive economic spin-offs that will benefit our community, our province, and our region.”

The $28 million runway extension was officially opened today. The Government of Canada provided up to $9 million in funding in support of the Atlantic Gateway and Trade Corridor Strategy. The Province of Nova Scotia invested $5 million in the project. The remaining $14 million was provided by Halifax International Airport Authority, the locally controlled, non-share capital corporation that operates, maintains and develops Halifax Stanfield on behalf of the federal government.

“Today we celebrate investments in a project that will considerably enhance the Halifax Stanfield International Airport’s position as an international air cargo hub, while benefiting the Atlantic economy,” says the Hon. Peter MacKay, minister of national defense, representing the federal government. “These improvements enhance the competitiveness of the airport and facilitate the movement of international trade through the Atlantic Gateway and Trade Corridor. Strategic infrastructure investments like these are key to the success of the Atlantic Gateway.”

“Nova Scotia is a key gateway to North America for both visitors and goods. Much of the credit for that belongs to Halifax’s world-class airport,” says Premier Darrell Dexter. “In the months to come, more and more Nova Scotians will be coming home to take advantage of the good jobs and economic opportunities available here. Most will arrive by plane, maybe even land on this bigger and better runway. To prepare for these opportunities, it is more important than ever for our province to ensure the safe and efficient arrival of passengers and products. More export capability means more jobs for Nova Scotians, and the newly extended main runway will help achieve that goal. I am proud that our government invested in this important project.”

“Economic development is a priority for HRM, and this airport plays a huge role in our economic future. I welcome the airport’s attention to continued strategic growth, which also supports economic growth throughout the region,” said Mayor Mike Savage. “Airports are more than places where airplanes come and go. They are portals to the world through which we can move people, goods and ideas, and our airport is now even better equipped to play that role for us.”

Construction to lengthen the runway from 8,800 to 10,500 feet began in September 2011. The runway was operational on November 15, 2012, allowing it to handle larger wide-bodied and heavy aircraft year-round, thus enhancing Halifax Stanfield’s position as a key international air cargo and passenger hub.