Media Release

Airport Authority Celebrates 10th Anniversary

November 30, 2008 Deer Lake, NL On December 1, 1998 the Deer Lake Regional Airport was officially transferred from Transport Canada to the Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority Inc. Today, December 1, 2008 marks the 10 year anniversary of the transfer of operations and ownership to the autonomous, independent, not-for-profit regional organization.


The formation of the Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority and the subsequent transfer was a direct result of the airports divestiture program which was outlined in the Federal Government’s National Airports Policy in July, 1994. The transfer mechanism for small regional airports, such as Deer Lake, was the outright sale of the lands, assets and chattels to local interests, in this case, the Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority.

Since 1998, and despite some challenges during the initial transition period, the Airport Authority has thrived under the new model of ownership. Passenger traffic during the period has increased by 82% and 2008 is expected to be the 5th consecutive record breaking year.

The number of employees has more than doubled and now stands at 260 personnel during peak periods. Flight activity has grown from two regular airline services to nine different airlines providing a regular or seasonal passenger or charter service. In addition to increased operations the Airport Authority has also invested over $18 million in capital improvements during the past ten years. The most notable infrastructure improvement is the modern new $12 million Air Terminal Building project which was officially opened in 2007.

Todd Lee, Chairman of the Authority is pleased with the airport’s progress. “We have had remarkable success during the past 10 years and we are well positioned for further growth and expansion,” said Lee. “We thought it would be appropriate to mark the occasion and recognize the airport staff and patrons who have contributed to our success,” added Lee.

In celebration of the past 10 years, the Airport Authority is paying tribute to its staff and patrons with a number of events and activities throughout the day.


Contact:
Jamie Schwartz, Airport Manager
Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority 1 Airport Road, Suite 1
Telephone: 709-635-3601 Deer Lake, NL A8A 1A3


Since December 1, 1998

  • Passenger traffic has increased 82% from 159,643 to 290,000(estimated) in 2008.
  • Employees have more than doubled and now stand at 260 during peak periods.
  • Flight activity has grown from two services to nine different airlines including; Air Canada,
    Air Canada Jazz, Air Labrador, Provincial Airlines, WestJet, Sunwing, Canadian North,
    Flair Air and Monarch Airlines.
  • Over $18 million has been invested in airport infrastructure.
  • Operating revenues have grown from $900,000 to over $3 million annually.
  • The Airport Authority has generated a surplus in 9 out of the past 10 years, with the first year the only exception.