The Kitimat Flying Club hosted a grand re-opening ceremony of the Kitimat Airpark runway on Sept. 10.
The Runway re-surfacing project was a long-term goal of the Kitimat Flying Club, and it came to fruition through support of the Kitimat community, businesses, and local and provincial governments, said the club in a statement.
The airpark is located 14 kilometres north of Kitimat (and 37 kilometres south of Terrace) on Highway 37.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for the public to learn more about the airpark, and its integral role in the community, as well as experience the excitement of aviation firsthand.
“We hope the public will come help us celebrate the grand re-opening, which will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cake and refreshments, and an Airpark walk-about,” said Kitimat Flying Club president, Don McAndrew prior to the event.
McAndrew said the project has been a long time after the previous runway became unsafe and difficult to maintain.
The $1.4 million renovation project was undertaken with the province funding close to $900,000 through the BC Air Access grant and the District of Kitimat putting in the rest.
Having a functional runway is of utmost importance in the event of an emergency, giving access to RCMP, Search & Rescue and BC Wildfire to use it safely.
The Kitimat Flying club is also hoping to attract more aviation students and tourists after reviving the Airpark runway, added McAndrew.
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