Graham Ingram, CEO and Nancy Currie Director, Business Development and Communication shared updates for the Red Deer Regional Airport.

 

Graham was pleased to describe how previous infrastructure challenges have been overcome to allow expansion of the airport.  These obstacles included an expanded terminal building, runway length and width and access to area to develop.  

The runway has now been expanded to allow 737 to land safely and the expansion of the terminal by 10 000 sq.ft will be compete by July 31/24.  These improvements were needed to attract passenger services.  Future projects include the completion of an northern access road that will  allow for future development of 200 acres of land.  The main taxi way is also being expanded to at a cost  of $12 million.  It is interesting to note that the core business of the airport is focused on cargo, maintenance, and commercial ventures such as Air Spray and Buffalo Air.  The airport is currently debt free due to strong support from the county, city of Red Deer, and the province.

 

The airport has a strong community presence.  Nancy shared that the 2023 airshow was attended by over 25 000 and realized a profit of $165 000 which will be used for funding airport expenses.  Non profit organizations were able to raise $125 000 in fundraising for their causes.  The economic impact to the region was in excess of $2.45 million. Over 55% of the visitors came from outside the local region.  The yearly Girls For Aviation Day for girls ages 8-17 has grown from 800 to 1200 attendees.  This event focuses on providing girls with information on how they may wish to pursue a career in the aviation industry.  

 

The Red Deer Regional Airport is a major employer for the region and the future looks bright as it expands to meet the needs of the future.