Y C D NEWS
December, 2003
The following items have been supplied by David Hunter, General Manager of Nanaimo Airport, for the information of all Flying Club Members:
1. Passenger figures are up this year for the first time since 2000. The projection is for 113,000 passengers to year-end 2003. This represents revenues of $621,500 for the airport.
2. Substantial runway de-icing has been applied over the last month, using the more environmentally friendly Potassium Acetate. One application costs $3,000.
3. Since Canadian Western Airlines ceased their operations in mid November, several air carriers have expressed interest in filling the void created by CWA’s departure.
4. The Airport Management Budget Plan for 2004 has now been completed and no increase in fees and charges are predicted. There will, however, be an increase in vehicle parking fees at the Air Terminal Building to remain competitive.
5. As mandated by Canadian Air Regulations (CARs) 308, the Airport has now completed the approval process for the purchase of a response vehicle and the construction of a protective shelter for that vehicle. This first intervention service, dedicated to scheduled carriers will be provided by the Corps of Commissionaires and is to commence on or before 24th June, 2004.
6. We are continuing to progress with the architectural firm, designing the expansion to the Air Terminal Building. The extension will be 2,900 sq. ft. (about 1/3 the size of the present structure) and will accommodate pre-board clearance and baggage inspection by CATSA (Canadian Air Transportation Security Authority).
7. We are currently investigating changes to the main entrance to the Airport with local MOT officials, consultants and contractors. The process is slow, due to the number of agencies involved. Options under review are lights at the present entrance, a new entrance opposite Vowels Road, a new entrance opposite Timberlands Road and a new entrance between Timberlands Road and Aqua Terra Road.
8. We are also preparing Airport Zoning Regulations (AZRs) through a contract with PW&GSC and the assistance of the Cowichan Valley Regional District, the Regional District of Nanaimo and Transport Canada
All of us in the Airport Management Office would like to take this opportunity to wish all Flying Club members and their families a very happy Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.