Canada Invests $2M in Whitehorse Airport Safety Upgrades

Ottawa is investing more than $2 million to strengthen safety and emergency response capabilities at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY).

The funding, announced by Member of Parliament for the Yukon and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs Dr. Brendan Hanley on behalf of Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon, comes through the federal Airports Capital Assistance Program.

The investment will allow Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport to replace its existing Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle, which was purchased by the Government of Yukon 20 years ago and has reached the end of its operational life.

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The airport serves more than 475,000 passengers annually. Officials say the new vehicle will enhance the airport's ability to respond quickly and effectively to aircraft emergencies while improving overall safety and supporting future airport capacity.

The federal government said the project will also help strengthen connectivity and support economic growth across the Yukon.

"For northern and remote communities, reliable air service is essential. This investment will strengthen the airport's ability to provide safe, dependable operations while supporting regional economic growth and keeping communities connected. Through investing in our airports and our transportation network, we are creating a stronger and more united Canada," said The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons.

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