Province, Federal Governments Invest $14 Million in Halifax Airport

Halifax Stanfield International Airport will soon be able to attract more passengers and cargo traffic as a result of investments from the province and the federal government.

Premier Darrell Dexter, and Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay, on behalf of Minister of Transport Chuck Strahl, announced a $14-million investment to extend the airport's main runway, today, Feb. 21.

"This new funding will help grow Nova Scotia's economy and create good jobs by increasing passenger and air cargo traffic in the region," said Premier Dexter. "As the region's largest airport, Halifax Stanfield International Airport is a vital transportation hub, and this enhancement will help businesses seek new customers and improve the airport's competitiveness internationally."

Extending the runway from 8,800 to 10,500 feet will allow the airport to handle larger wide-bodied and heavy aircraft. This will enhance the airport's position as a key international air cargo and passenger hub.

"Investments in Nova Scotia's transportation infrastructure are investments toward growing the economic potential of our province," said Mr. MacKay. "Government is proud to support Nova Scotians and Nova Scotia businesses with this important investment."

Nova Scotia will invest $5 million and Transport Canada will provide $9 million. The remaining $14 million will be provided by the airport authority.

In 2009, Halifax Stanfield International Airport moved 29 thousand tonnes of cargo. Over the next decade, air cargo traffic is forecast to grow by between 85 per cent and 130 per cent.

"The extension of our main runway will provide Nova Scotia with new economic development opportunities, particularly in the air cargo sector," said Tom Ruth, president and CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority. "We are delighted to have the participation of both the provincial and federal governments in a project that will create positive economic spinoffs that will be felt right across the province in the years ahead."

Nova Scotia's investment is part of jobsHere, the province's plan to create goods jobs and grow the economy. jobsHere focuses on three areas to help grow the economy including learning, innovation and competitiveness.

"The runway expansion project at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport is a shining example of an investment that will not only help improve the competitiveness of the airport, but will help improve the competitiveness of many businesses in this province and the region that uses it to ship their goods around the world."