People using regional air facilities around B.C. can benefit from improved travelling experiences, thanks to funding from the B.C. Air Access Program (BCAAP).

A call for applications is now open for airports, heliports and water aerodromes to submit proposals to make important infrastructure upgrades. The grant program is a cost-sharing initiative that provides funding to assist communities with improvements to their aviation facilities that can otherwise be difficult to make, especially for smaller communities.

Funding from the grants can support safety improvements, terminal expansions and green initiatives. In addition to traditional categories, this year’s program includes funding incentives for projects aimed at environmental and climate-focused improvements. This will help aviation facilities align with the Province’s CleanBC plan to reduce climate pollution and create more jobs for people and communities.

Applications for the 2020-21 fiscal year will be accepted until Jan. 13, 2020, until 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time).

Since its launch in 2015, BCAAP has provided nearly $40 million in funds to 57 airports throughout the province. Last year, 16 communities were awarded almost $8 million. Projects have ranged from terminal building expansions to lighting upgrades.

B.C. has more than 300 public airports, heliports and water aerodromes, which play a significant role in connecting communities and supporting the economy. The province’s airports handle 20% of Canada’s airport traffic and nearly 25% of all takeoffs and landings in the country.

Learn More:

For information on the B.C. Air Access Program, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/BCAirAccessProgram