New fire truck on tap for Sudbury Airport

A new fire truck that comes with a price tag of $757,150 will replace an aged vehicle at Greater Sudbury Airport, Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said.

Baird was in Sudbury Aug. 3 to announce the funding for what the government is calling an “important safety improvement.” The funds are being made available through the Airports Capital Assistance Program.

“The Greater Sudbury Airport is a vital gateway for local residents, businesses, trade and tourism,” Baird said. “A new state-of-the-art fire truck will greatly enhance emergency response capability at the airport.”

The new truck is replacing one that has reached the end of its useful life, he said.

Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Denis Lebel said investing in regional airports is part of the government’s plan to create jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. The government is supporting airports across the country to improve safety for air travellers and promote the efficient transportation of goods.

In 2012-2013, Canada will invest more than $26.1 million for 36 projects for safety-related improvements at 27 airports.

Improvements include purchasing and replacing heavy airside mobile equipment, installing wildlife fencing and rehabilitating runway pavements, airfield lighting and electrical systems.

To date, through ACAP, the federal government has invested more than $586.2 million for 716 projects at 173 airports. The Greater Sudbury Airport has received more than $6.4 million for 13 projects, including the new fire truck.

“We are extremely pleased and appreciative of the ongoing financial support provided under Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program,” Bob Johnston, chief executive officer of the Greater Sudbury Airport, said.

“The generous contribution of $757,150 – or 100 per cent of the cost of a new fire truck – will enable the Greater Sudbury Airport to meet its obligations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations and to ensure our firefighting personnel are able to provide the safest and highest level of response in emergency situations.”

Posted by Arron Pickard