All 26 national airports now under local authorities

Control of Prince George Airport has been transferred from the government of Canada to the airport authority.

The agreement completes the process of transferring all 26 National Airports System airports to local authorities as part of Ottawa’s National Airports Policy.

Under the 1994 National Airports Policy, which called for the commercialization of federally operated airports, Prince George Airport was designated as part of the National Airports System (NAS) and is an essential component of Canada’s air transportation network. The policy calls for the operation, management and development of NAS airports to be transferred to Canadian Airport Authorities and for authorities to maintain a high degree of accountability to the public.

Transport Canada will continue to regulate the safe provision of air navigation facilities and services at Prince George Airport and across the country. The department will also continue to enhance safety and security at Canadian airports through aviation regulation and the airport certification process.

On March 20, 2003, Mr. Collenette introduced Bill C-27, the Canada Airports Act, which builds on the 1994 policy and enunciates a new national airports policy for the future. The proposed act will, among other things, enhance the transparency, disclosure and accountability of the airport authorities that operate Canada’s major airports, Ottawa claims.

For more information on the proposed Canada Airports Act, visit: www.tc.gc.ca.