Air Access Report Timely

A report by the Air Access Task Force of the Metropolitan Halifax Chamber of Commerce raises many issues that are important to Nova Scotians, according to Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, and Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture.

"I want to commend the task force for recognizing that we need a stronger focus on community interests in any discussion of air policy," said Mr. Russell. "We continue to advocate for a competitive airline industry that supports the economic and social goals of Nova Scotians in and outside of metro."

"We support the principles and general direction of this report," said Mr. MacDonald. "Our airports are critical links that help support our billion-dollar-a-year tourism industry and the thousands of jobs that go along with it. Federal air policy must recognize the strategic importance of the Halifax International Airport, but it must also acknowledge that the financial viability of smaller airports is an issue that affects us directly."

Nova Scotia has urged the federal government to consider a variety of reasonable options to ensure that competition exists in the air industry at all levels, including regional, national, international and cross-border services. It says any specific recommendations must be considered as part of a broader package that addresses the needs and interests of our communities.

The province also recommends the establishment of a U.S. Customs and Immigration preclearance facility at Halifax International Airport, which is the only major Canadian airport without such a service. Preclearance would allow passengers to clear U.S. Customs before departure and would provide for easier connections when they arrive at U.S. hub airports.

"We need these kinds of on-the-ground improvements to take advantage of trade and tourism opportunities," said Mr. Russell. "Again, we encourage the federal government to listen to the strong concerns of Nova Scotians who rely on air services."

Mr. Russell and Mr. MacDonald say the province looks forward to working with key provincial stakeholders to ensure that Nova Scotian interests are well represented.