Government of Canada funds critical infrastructure projects at YXE

As Canada’s air sector works towards recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, investments in the airport’s infrastructure are crucial to keeping travellers, workers, and communities safe.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, Annie Koutrakis, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, has announced new funding to help the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport (YXE) recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The airport will receive more than CA$1.7 million from the Airport Critical Infrastructure Programme to expand one of the airport’s aprons, where aircraft park, to create additional space for the movement of larger aircraft. The funding will also be used to improve flight scheduling and connection times between flights for passengers, as well as establishing dedicated corridors to enable physical distancing at the airport.

This funding is in addition to the CA$10.9 million provided under the program in August 2021, for the rehabilitation of the primary runway and apron pavement surfaces, the installation of new LED runway edge lights, and the replacement of select storm drains.

The Government of Canada also provided the airport with CA$2.8 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Saskatoon and surrounding communities.

The pandemic highlighted the important role Canada’s airports play in our country’s economy, and in sustaining the social and economic well-being of our communities. These investments will improve access to safe, reliable and efficient air transportation options, and will help us deliver our commitment to build safer, healthier, and stronger communities as Canada recovers from the pandemic.

“As we move forward with the safe 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 Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport to invest in the infrastructure and equipment needed to help re-invigorate the aviation industry and allow Canadians to feel safe and secure when they travel,” said Alghabra.

“The Saskatoon Airport Authority is a partner in developing Saskatoon and Saskatchewan by delivering the most valued airport experience in Canada through its focus on safety, security, and customer experience. These funds will help ensure that we continue to support our community in providing safe and efficient long-term infrastructure for future growth and development,” added Stephen Maybury, President and CEO of YXE.