There was some turbulence for the Pitt Meadows Airport in 2015, as its member municipalities fought over control of what local politicians agree will be a major economic driver in the future.
Also, members of the public declared their opposition to future airport expansion, just as airport operators announce a proposed runway extension and other improvements.
But Murray Day returned for another term as president of the Pitt Meadows Airport Society and he sees clear skies ahead for YPK in 2016.
“Our priority will be looking at the runway safety enhancements,” said Day, adding that the self-funded $2.5 million project has been planned by the society for many years.
“Having the two cities meet their obligations, and work together as members partners in the airport,” is another key to a successful 2016, Day said.
On July 29, the day before the Pitt Meadows Airport Society’s annual general meeting, the City of Pitt Meadows asked Maple Ridge to relinquish control of YPK. The two cities are members of a society that appoints a board to operate the facility.
Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read took the position that the airport is a long-term asset that is of strategic value to her city, and has great economic potential going forward.
She responded to Pitt Meadows by letter the same day:
“Our council was looking forward to engaging with Pitt Meadows council and the board of directors towards a new vision for the our airport. The airport is a regional asset. Further, major industrial and residential areas of Maple Ridge are in very close proximity to the airport and are affected by airport activities,” she wrote. “As such, we remain clear in our position that we have no intention of divesting ourselves of our interest in our joint asset.”
The letter from Pitt Meadows to Maple Ridge cited frustrations with the two cities failing to reach consensus in strategic planning, and the composition of the board.
In November, residential neighbours of the airport, organized through social media, determined to oppose runway expansion, for fear it will lead to more and bigger aircraft using the airport, creating more noise.
On Nov. 25, the society hosted an open house at the airport. Day said more than 200 people attended that meeting and offered feedback, and in the middle of January the society plans a meeting to review comments.
From an initial look at the results, he said, residents worry about noise and the potential growth of the airport to accommodate large jet aircraft. And there was also positive comments from the business community at the airport who appreciate the improvements.
On the agenda is a plan to expand the main runway by almost 100 m (300 ft.) to 1,524 m (5,000 ft.) in total, add lights and other safety features.
Day said the business plan is to attract new aviation business to YPK. As the Vancouver International Airport grows, some smaller businesses may be squeezed out, and the society would like Pitt Meadows to be a good option for them.
The runway enhancements would allow these businesses to attract a wider range of aircraft, which might come to the airport for painting, maintenance or other services, he said.
Smaller jets are already able to land at the airport now, and do. The runway expansion would make it safer for them, particularly on takeoffs, and give them space to turn around at the end of the runway.
The lighting at the airport is old, and the society would like to replace it with modern LEDs, which are cost effective and provide more light.
Day said the airport, which has been among the most active in Canada in terms of flights, is seen to have a bright future by the people who do business there.
“Overall, we’re looking forward to positive steps in 2016 and beyond,” he said.