FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta – Brian Jean, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced Canada's New Government is investing nearly $2 million to enhance safety at the Fort McMurray Airport. This money is for the purchase of two on-site aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicles, and related safety equipment.

"Canada's New Government is committed to improving the safety of regional communities and their air services," said Mr. Jean. "Our investment of $1,971,349 to enhance safety will ensure that the Fort McMurray Airport is able to provide travellers with a high degree of protection if ever an emergency, fire or accident occurs."

The Airports Capital Assistance Program provides funding toward capital projects related to safety, asset protection and operating cost reduction. The program also assists airports required by regulation to provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services by funding initial capital costs for vehicles and ongoing vehicle replacement. To be eligible, airports must have year-round regularly scheduled passenger service, meet Transport Canada airport certification requirements and not be owned by the Government of Canada.

Backgrounders

Airports Capital Assistance Program

Safety improvements at the Fort McMurray Airport