Winnipeg airport to get $19-million cargo upgrade

A construction project that will boost cargo capacity at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is getting up to $19.4 million in funding from the National Trade Corridors Fund.

The construction of a new storage facility will include space for cold storage and perishable goods and will increase the airport’s overall cargo capacity for both imports and exports as well as improving accessibility of goods for remote and Northern communities.

The project involves apron expansion; relocating current tenants; site preparation; demolishing vacant buildings; constructing the air cargo facility; and, performing associated civil work.

The airport saw 4,700-plus cargo planes land in in 2022.

“This investment not only propels our commitment to unlocking new opportunities for economic growth but also solidifies Winnipeg Richardson International Airport’s role as a critical cargo hub integral to Canada’s supply chain network,” said Nick Hays

, Winnipeg Airports Authority president and CEO.

“Together, with the backing of our government partners, we will be able to deliver the infrastructure needed to help provide greater efficiency, connectivity, and prosperity for our community and beyond.”

Investing in the growth of cargo and logistics services is part of the airport authority’s five-year strategic plan. The airport is also looking at potential growth opportunities in underdeveloped space on the airport campus, and seeking opportunities in new logistics  technologies and services, such as last-mile delivery, drones, and cargo automation systems.

Since 1997, WAA has invested more than $1 billion into the developing the airport campus. This new funding is in addition to the more than $30 million provided to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport in 2019.

The National Trade Corridors Fund is a competitive, merit-based program designed to help infrastructure owners and users invest in the critical transportation assets that support economic activity in Canada. A total of $4.6 billion over 11 years (2017-2028) has been allocated to the program.