Rehabilitation of the Fort McMurray International Airport’s (YMM) runway has wrapped up.
The project included a complete resurfacing of the runway, installation of a new approach lighting system, and construction of a newly required Runway End Safety Area which is used to reduced the risk of aircraft damage in the event of an incident.
For nearly 12 months, E-Construction worked around flight schedules to avoid impacts to air service, paving through the night after the last flight departed, and ending before the first flight landed the next morning.
Funding for the project was approved by council in 2019 through the municipality’s Community Investment Program.
An investment Mayor Don Scott said he believes will last at least 20 years.
“The airport is a critically important asset for our community and the new runway will ensure that it continues to support economic development and recovery by facilitating growth opportunities and welcoming more individuals and families to our region.”
President and CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority, RJ Steenstra said the investment was necessary from a safety standpoint.
He also noted that YMM contributes 900 jobs to the community, and about $400 million into the local economy.
When asked about the future of YMM, Steenstra said the future looks strong as they look to recover post-pandemic.
“There’s a lot of factors at play here, but we’re certainly optimistic about the future, however, it is going to be a slow recovery.”
He explained that the airport’s mandate is to grow air service in the region, however, the border remaining closed until Nov. 21 impacts trans-border services.
YMM will continue to work on bringing more flights to the region and increasing the frequency of flights with current airline partners.
Steenstra said upgrades along with the airport’s enhanced health and safety program is expected to help build confidence in air travel.
