No. A010/02For release - July 22, 2002
STEPHENVILLE — Bill Matthews, MP for Burin-St. George's, on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today participated in a ceremony to officially open improved facilities at the Stephenville Airport. The Government of Canada funded $3.5 million towards these improvement projects--$1.6 of which came under the Government of Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP). The project provided approximately 40 seasonal construction jobs over a two-year period.
"The Government of Canada has contributed over $9.5 million in funding towards this airport since the transfer of ownership to the Stephenville Airport Corporation," said Mr. Matthews. "This is a clear indication that the Government of Canada has a continued commitment to the Stephenville Airport and to the people of Newfoundland."
These projects involved resurfacing Runway 09-27, as well as purchasing and installing a new approach lighting system, new landing system equipment, repairing Taxiways A and B, and replacing hazard beacons. These improvements help to ensure that the Stephenville Airport remains a safe and efficient facility.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the important role that the Stephenville Airport plays as an engine of growth for the economy of Western Newfoundland, " said Mr. Collenette. "The Government of Canada's contribution toward this project helps to enhance not only safety, but also the economic potential of Stephenville Airport."
"Stephenville Airport is positioned as a world class international airport servicing the trans-Atlantic aviation industry and complementing the services available at Newfoundland and Labrador's other international airports," said Paul Gallant, Chairman of the Stephenville Airport Corporation. "These improvements to our facility will ensure Stephenville Airport is well equipped to continue to play this role well into the future."
The Stephenville Airport is owned and operated by the Stephenville Airport Corporation. Provincial Airlines, Air Canada Jazz, and Air Labrador provide regularly scheduled passenger service at the airport. Both Conquest Vacations/Sky Service and JetsGo provide passenger service in the summer months. The airport handles approximately 33,000 passengers per year.
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Contacts:
Tracey HennesseyTransport CanadaCommunications, St. John'sTel: (709) 772-6197
Paul GallantChairman, Stephenville Airport Corporation(709) 643-9025
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