The Manitoba government is taking steps to further support rural airport operations by doubling the Manitoba Airport Assistance Program (MAAP), including increasing the regional Swan River Airport grant to $9,600 from $4,800.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said Thursday, “Investing in rural airport operations helps communities attract economic development, deliver health-care services and ensure flights are safe and on time.” The announcement was part of an overall doubling of MAAP grants across the province to a total of $156,600 from $85,800.
Like many rural airports in Manitoba, the Swan River Airport is financed by local municipalities with administrative and maintenance operations contracted to the Town of Swan River. Along with local pilots, the airport is a stopover point for various aircraft including government services aircraft, tour and guiding companies, helicopters and provincial, national and international visitors. The Swan Valley Airport also serves as a staging area for firefighting aircraft when needed, aerial spraying companies and corporate aircraft.
“The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) commends the Manitoba government for initially doubling funding through the Manitoba Airport Assistance Program (MAAP),” said Kam Blight, president, AMM. “Recognizing the challenges faced by municipalities during the pandemic, coupled with stagnant grant funding, this increased investment in municipal airport infrastructure not only fosters economic growth but also promotes safety and connectivity throughout Manitoba. We wish to thank Minister Naylor for championing these changes after visiting many of our communities in partnership with our organization. The AMM looks forward to ongoing collaboration with the department of transportation and infrastructure to further enhance this vital program.”
Since 1972, MAAP has been providing annual grants to assist municipal airport operations and maintain safe airports for recreational flying, aerial seeding, crop spraying and the preparation of emergency landings.
“Municipal airports, particularly in northern Manitoba, are important lifelines that allow residents to increase their connectivity with other communities,” said Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Ian Bushie. “Whether it’s businesspeople seeking new opportunities or rural Manitobans who require emergency medical treatment, we are always looking to work with municipal governments to see how we can improve the services they provide.”
Under the new MAAP increase, airports with paved runways will receive $4,800, an increase from $2,400, while airports with unpaved runways will receive $2,400, up from $1,200. The funds provided in the grant will be used for the operation, maintenance and improvement of the airport. There are currently 38 municipal airports eligible for the MAAP grant, Naylor noted.
To learn more about the Manitoba Airport Assistance Program, visit: Manitoba Airport Assistance Program Guidelines | Transportation and Infrastructure | Province of Manitoba (gov.mb.ca)
