Fort McMurray’s new airport terminal is on track to open on June 9 of next year.
Last night’s annual public meeting gave an update on the airport’s progress.
President & CEO Scott Clements says the airport is still looking for provincial and federal funding to help finance the project.
He says with the boom of the oilsands industry, he can’t see why that money wouldn’t eventually come through.
“The governments get all kinds of revenues from the resource being developed here,” he said.
“Why would you not, as a government of Canada or a government of Alberta, want to make sure that the right infrastructure is in place for all modes of transportation?”
He says the most challenging part of the process has been trying to predict future trends.
“The challenge is doing the right thing, being confident you’re doing the right thing at the right time, and I guess I have done this before,” he said.
“I’ve got 53 years in the industry. I’ve surrounded myself with people that know what they’re doing. And I think we’ve met that challenge in the right way.”
Last night’s meeting also gave an update on the construction, which is about 70% completed.
Some of the 16 new food and beverage retailers were also in attendance, giving a sneak preview of what’s to come.
The grand opening will kick off with an air show next May 31.
May 16, 2013
