Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport Receives New Funding for Critical Infrastructure Projects

The Canadian Government has announced new funding to help the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport will receive more than $1.7 million from the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to expand one of the airport’s aprons, where aircraft park, to create additional space for the movement of larger aircraft. The funding will also be used to improve flight scheduling and connection times between flights for passengers, as well as establishing dedicated corridors to enable physical distancing at the airport.

This funding is in addition to the $10.9 million provided under the program in August 2021, for the rehabilitation of the primary runway and apron pavement surfaces, the installation of new LED runway edge lights, and the replacement of select storm drains.

The Government of Canada also provided the airport with $2.8 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Saskatoon and surrounding communities.

“The Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport is a key transportation hub for much of central and northern Saskatchewan,” said Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport. “It connects family and friends, helps travelers discover new destinations, and is a pivotal trade corridor for many Saskatchewan businesses. This funding will enhance airport safety for travelers, air crews, and airport workers, while supporting jobs and our regional economy.” 

Kim Stevens

Kim Stevens is the publisher of State Aviation Journal, which he founded in 2009. A longtime commercial-rated pilot, he was introduced to state aviation in 1992 as Director of the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics, later serving as Deputy Division Director for the Arizona Department of Transportation's Aeronautics Division. From 2013 to 2018, he was Director of Communications and Operations for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) in Washington, D.C. Relocating to North Carolina, Kim worked for the Raleigh-Durham International Airport for two years and now concentrates solely on the Journal. Prior to his aviation career, Kim spent a decade in the newspaper and magazine business.