runway rehabilitation, finished two weeks ahead of schedule in October 2022, denoted the first time the facility qualified for federal Airports Capital Assistance Program funding after pandemic-related passenger reductions temporarily lowered traffic thresholds. “The runway is getting repaved with 150 millimeters of new asphalt that we’re milling and applying on top,” Brading explained during the project. “We’re employing some glass grid technology to seal the asphalt so that reflective cracks don’t form.” The work included replacing 60-year-old subsurface drainage systems, installing state-of-the-art LED runway lights that improve visibility while reducing energy consumption, and creating fortified safety areas capable of supporting aircraft during runway excursions. Current capital initiatives focus squarely on passenger convenience and operational efficiency. The airport is expanding its security screening checkpoint to reduce waiting times during peak travel periods. Check-in counter upgrades will accommodate growing passenger volumes, while departure lounge expansion addresses capacity constraints during busy winter charter seasons. Outside the terminal, parking lot improvements will add spaces and enhance traffic flow for the roughly 800,000 annual passengers the facility now serves. “We’re also looking at runway turn pads,” Brading adds, referring to specialized pavement areas that allow aircraft to reverse direction without using excessive runway length. “These additions will improve operational flexibility while reducing taxi times and fuel consumption for airlines.” Federal funding proved instrumental in keeping the airport’s debt servicing costs manageable. “Transport Canada contributed over $12.4 million for airside improvements, while the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario provided $1.5 million for terminal lighting, HVAC equipment, and escalator replacements,” in the three-story building that remains the only Thunder Bay facility still using escalators.” EVERY DAY BRINGS NEW CHALLENGES Ryan Brading never planned an airport career. He 178 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 12
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