The Province of British Columbia has issued a proclamation declaring that Aug. 6-12, 2012, shall be known as "Abbotsford International Airshow Week".

The proclamation celebrates the 50th anniversary of the foremost showcase of aviation in B.C. and Canada and confirms the B.C. government's commitment to support British Columbia's growing aerospace sector.

Over the course of this week, government representatives have been meeting with key stakeholders in order to further develop British Columbia's aerospace industry. The B.C. government will collaborate with business to commercialize new technologies and bring them to market more quickly.

In addition, B.C. is in close proximity to Boeing's final assembly and integration production lines in the Seattle area. As a preferred Asia-Pacific Gateway, B.C. has increased potential to become a major hub for not only the Pacific Northwest, but also Canada's growing aerospace industry.

Quotes:

Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, Pat Bell -

"The Abbotsford Airshow is a prime opportunity for government and aerospace industry representatives to share knowledge and encourage trade and investment in an increasingly competitive sector."

"British Columbia's aerospace sector generates over $1.2 billion in revenue per year and directly employs approximately 5,000 people. Through 'Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan', government has made it clear that a key priority is to support industries that create jobs for B.C. families."

Chairman, Aerospace Industries Association of BC, Mark van Rooij -

"The Abbotsford Airshow is an ideal opportunity to network with customers, suppliers, education institutes and government to showcase the strong cluster of B.C. aerospace companies and the multitude of the capabilities they have to offer, from product engineering, complex parts manufacturing, assembly and integration, to maintenance, repair and overhaul."

The support of the B.C. government for the aerospace Industry, as evidenced by their efforts to organize the Abbotsford International Airshow Week, together with the City of Abbotsford, is very important for, and appreciated by, the member companies of AIABC. AIABC is looking forward to continued collaboration with the B.C. government to stimulate growth and chart the direction for our sector for many years to come."

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 356-8177