By Ian Holmes

Money announced to upgrade Nanaimo Airport

Mar 13, 2017 | 5:43 PM

Nanaimo Airport is in for some major upgrades following a commitment of senior government cash.

Airport president Mike Hooper said $7.5 million from the provincial and federal governments goes towards doubling the passenger lounge and tripling the security areas of the main terminal.

“We’ve identified when we need to build future components based on the number of passengers going through,” Hooper said. “This phase one is crucial at this stage to increase the security area and the boarding lounge.”

Hooper said the airport is also chipping in to the project, budgeted at just over $10 million.

He said work is planned to begin in June and be finished in summer 2018. He noted passengers won’t be disrupted.

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Hooper said the improvements mark the first phase of a 20-year master plan, which includes expanding beyond regional service to sun destinations.

Hooper added that other upcoming projects include expanded parking, an apron expansion for parked aircraft and creation of the airport’s own fire department.

340,000 passengers used Nanaimo Airpot last year, according to Hooper.

He said this year’s projection is 357,000 passengers through YCD.

ian.holmes@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @reporterholmes