B.C. Allocates $6.2M for Regional Airport Upgrades in 2025

Key Takeaways

• British Columbia invests $6.2 million to upgrade 16 regional airports in 2025 through BC Air Access Program.
• The BC Air Access Program supports airports with fewer than one million passengers annually, funding safety and infrastructure improvements.
• Projects include runway expansions, fuel system upgrades, and new heliports addressing emergency response and tourism needs.

On June 26, 2025, the Government of British Columbia announced a major investment of $6.2 million to upgrade 16 regional and local airports across the province. This funding, delivered through the BC Air Access Program (BCAAP), aims to improve airport infrastructure for communities that rely on air travel for connection, emergency services, and economic growth. The upgrades are already underway or scheduled for completion in 2025, with the government releasing detailed project and funding information to the public.

This move highlights British Columbia’s commitment to supporting smaller airports that serve fewer than one million passengers per year. These airports are vital for connecting remote, rural, and Indigenous communities, as well as supporting emergency response and tourism. The investment comes at a time when reliable air access is more important than ever for the province’s residents and businesses.

Why British Columbia Is Investing in Airport Upgrades

British Columbia 🇨🇦 is a vast province with many communities spread out over large distances. For many people living outside major cities, airports are not just a convenience—they are a lifeline. Smaller airports help people travel for work, visit family, and access health care. They also play a key role in emergency situations, such as wildfires or medical evacuations.

Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit, summed up the importance of this investment:
“These improvements to our rural and regional airports will help keep British Columbians connected and our economy on the move.”

Cathy Press, Chair of the BC Aviation Council, added:
“From wildfire suppression to air-ambulance operations, from high-value tourism to connecting Indigenous and rural communities within our province and beyond, the BC Air Access Program supports our economy and society.”

The provincial government recognizes that, even though airports are usually under federal control, local and regional airports are essential for community well-being and economic development.

How the BC Air Access Program Works

The BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) is the main way the province supports airport upgrades. The program provides funding for airports, heliports, and water aerodromes that serve fewer than one million passengers each year. The goal is to help these facilities improve safety, reliability, and access for everyone who depends on them.

Key details about the program:

• Eligibility: Open to airports, heliports, and water aerodromes in British Columbia 🇨🇦 with fewer than one million passengers per year.
• Application Window: Eligible facilities can apply for funding every year in November and December.
• Administration: The program is run by the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
• Application Process: Details and forms are available on the Province of BC’s official BCAAP website.

Since 2017, the BCAAP has awarded over $70 million in grants to 80 air facilities across the province. With more than 300 public airports, heliports, and water aerodromes in British Columbia 🇨🇦, this network is crucial for residents, travelers, emergency services, and the visitor economy.

Where the $6.2 Million Is Going: 2025 Project Breakdown

The 2025 funding covers a wide range of projects, from runway expansions to safety upgrades. Here’s a closer look at how the money is being spent:

*Note: Nanaimo Airport’s funding is listed as both $74,630 and $750,000 in different sources. The higher figure likely covers a broader range of electrical and lighting upgrades.

These projects are spread across the province, from Vancouver Island to Northern British Columbia 🇨🇦, and cover everything from basic safety improvements to major expansions.

Why These Upgrades Matter: Key Benefits

1. Better Connectivity for Communities

Many communities in British Columbia 🇨🇦 are far from major cities. Upgraded airports mean people can travel more easily for work, school, or medical care. Improved facilities also help connect Indigenous and rural communities, making it easier for everyone to stay in touch with family and friends.

2. Stronger Emergency Response

Airports are critical during emergencies. For example, when wildfires threaten homes or when someone needs urgent medical care, planes and helicopters are often the fastest way to help. Upgrades like new fuel tanks, better lighting, and improved runways make it safer and faster for emergency crews to do their jobs.

• Wildfire Suppression: Airports like Valemount and McBride are getting new fuel systems to support firefighting aircraft.
• Air Ambulance and Medevac: Tipella’s new heliport and McBride’s fuel upgrades will help air ambulances reach people in need more quickly.
• Weather Monitoring: Fairmont Hot Springs will have better weather monitoring, which is essential for safe flights in changing conditions.

3. Boosting Local Economies and Tourism

Upgraded airports create jobs during construction and help local businesses by making it easier for tourists and business travelers to visit. Regions like Castlegar, Quesnel, and Comox Valley are popular with visitors, and better airport facilities can help attract even more people.

• Tourism Growth: Improved terminals and runways mean more flights and more visitors, supporting hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
• Business Opportunities: Reliable air access helps local companies reach new markets and bring in supplies.

4. Improved Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority for any airport. Projects like runway repairs, new lighting, and wildlife fencing help prevent accidents and keep flights running on time.

• Runway and Apron Upgrades: Comox Valley, Invermere, and Courtenay Airpark are all getting improvements to their runways and aprons, making takeoffs and landings safer.
• Wildlife Fencing: Dease Lake and Fort St. James are adding fencing to keep animals off the runways, reducing the risk of collisions.
• Tree Topping: Trail is removing tall trees near the airport to improve visibility and safety for pilots.

Who Benefits from the BC Air Access Program?

The BC Air Access Program supports a wide range of people and groups:

• Local Residents: Easier travel for work, school, and family visits.
• Indigenous Communities: Better access to services and opportunities.
• Tourists: More reliable flights to remote and scenic destinations.
• Emergency Responders: Faster, safer access during wildfires, floods, or medical emergencies.
• Local Businesses: More visitors and improved shipping options.
• Airport Workers: Jobs created by construction and ongoing maintenance.

Cathy Press of the BC Aviation Council highlighted the broad impact:
“The BC Air Access Program supports our economy and society, from emergency services to tourism and community connection.”

The Application Process: How Airports Get Funding

Each year, eligible airports can apply for funding through the BCAAP. The process is designed to be fair and open, with clear guidelines on who can apply and what kinds of projects are supported.

Steps in the application process:

1. Check Eligibility: Airports, heliports, and water aerodromes serving fewer than one million passengers per year can apply.
2. Prepare a Proposal: Applicants must describe their project, explain why it’s needed, and provide cost estimates.
3. Submit Application: Applications are accepted every November and December.
4. Review and Approval: The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure reviews all applications and decides which projects will receive funding.
5. Project Implementation: Once approved, airports can begin work on their projects, with regular updates provided to the government and public.

For more information or to apply, visit the official BCAAP page.

Historical Context: Building on Past Success

The BC Air Access Program is not new. Since 2017, it has provided over $70 million in grants to 80 different air facilities. This long-term support has helped build a strong network of airports, heliports, and water aerodromes across British Columbia 🇨🇦.

With more than 300 public air facilities, the province depends on this network for everything from daily travel to emergency response. The latest $6.2 million investment is part of a larger effort to keep these facilities safe, reliable, and ready for the future.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for BC’s Airports?

The provincial government has signaled that support for airport infrastructure will continue. Annual funding opportunities through the BCAAP mean that more airports can apply for help each year. The focus is on long-term resilience, making sure that airports can handle new challenges, from climate change to growing passenger numbers.

In addition to the BCAAP projects, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is starting a $133 million North Runway modernization in spring 2025. This major project shows the province’s ongoing commitment to aviation infrastructure at all levels.

The government will provide regular updates on the progress of funded projects through official channels and the BCAAP website, keeping the public informed about how the money is being spent and what improvements are being made.

Real-World Examples: How Upgrades Make a Difference

To understand the impact of these upgrades, consider a few real-life scenarios:

• Wildfire Season: During the summer, wildfires can threaten homes and communities. Airports like Valemount and McBride, with new fuel systems, can support more firefighting aircraft, helping to control fires faster and protect people and property.
• Medical Emergencies: In remote areas, air ambulances are often the only way to get patients to hospital quickly. Tipella’s new heliport and McBride’s fuel upgrades mean faster response times and better outcomes for patients.
• Tourism Growth: Improved terminals and runways in places like Quesnel and Castlegar make it easier for tourists to visit, supporting local businesses and creating jobs.

These examples show how the BC Air Access Program is not just about concrete and asphalt—it’s about making life better for people across the province.

Stakeholder Perspectives: What People Are Saying

Aviation Industry:
The BC Aviation Council and local airport authorities have welcomed the funding, saying it helps maintain vital infrastructure and supports community resilience.

Tourism Sector:
Tourism operators see improved airport facilities as key to attracting more visitors, especially in remote regions where air access is the only option.

Emergency Services:
Investments in fuel systems, heliports, and weather monitoring directly support emergency response, making it easier to fight fires and save lives.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these upgrades are expected to have a lasting impact on the province’s ability to respond to emergencies, support economic growth, and keep communities connected.

How to Stay Informed and Get Involved

If you work at an airport, are part of a local government, or just want to know more about airport upgrades in British Columbia 🇨🇦, there are several ways to stay informed:

• Visit the official BCAAP website for details on current projects, application forms, and program guidelines.
• Check the BC Government Newsroom for the latest news releases and updates on funded projects.
• Contact the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure if you have questions or want to discuss a potential project.

Practical Takeaways for Readers

• If you live in a community served by one of the upgraded airports, expect better service, improved safety, and more reliable flights in the near future.
• If you work in tourism, emergency services, or local government, these upgrades could mean more visitors, faster response times, and new business opportunities.
• If you manage an airport or heliport, consider applying for BCAAP funding during the next intake period in November and December.

The BC Air Access Program is making a real difference for people across British Columbia 🇨🇦. By investing in airport upgrades, the province is helping communities stay connected, safe, and ready for the future.

Learn Today

BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) → A provincial funding initiative improving airports serving under one million passengers annually in British Columbia.
Runway Apron → A paved area next to runways where aircraft park, unload, or refuel safely.
Heliport → A designated landing area specifically for helicopters, often used for medical or emergency access.
Wildfire Suppression → Emergency operations involving aircraft and resources to control and extinguish wildfires.
Water Aerodrome → A water area used regularly for aircraft takeoffs and landings, often for seaplanes.

This Article in a Nutshell

British Columbia commits $6.2 million to enhance 16 regional airports via the BC Air Access Program. These vital upgrades improve connectivity, emergency response, and tourism, supporting remote and Indigenous communities. The program sustains economic growth and safety by funding critical infrastructure from runways to heliports, ensuring reliable air access province-wide.
— By VisaVerge.com