Description:
The High Prairie Airport is now open! Big Lakes County was able to utilize nearly $720,695 from the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) allocated through the Alberta Government to renovate the High Prairie Airport. Upgrades included: LED lighting, a 120-meter runway extension, overlay, apron extension, and wider access road from Highway 749. Although the runway extension is complete, the County is waiting for Nav Canada’s approval to open the extension for landing.
“These upgrades to our Airport would not have been possible without the support of our local partners. The Town of High Prairie, High Prairie Forest Products under West Fraser Mill, and Tolko Industries,” states Reeve Richard Simard. “We would also like to thank WSP Global Inc. and Ruel Brothers Contracting for helping us create a safe and accessible service for our residents, businesses, and visitors.”
The new 4,324ft runway can now safely accommodate larger aircrafts such as the Learjet 35A and Medevac.
“After many construction delays, due to weather, it is nice to have the Airport open again,” states Mel Beaudette, Airport Operator. “Our County takes pride in our Airport and the service it provides. Last year, the Airport was used 138 times for Medevac and 37 times for business, making it an essential service for our residents, businesses, Alberta Health Services, and STARS Air Ambulance.”
The High Prairie Airport is equipped with a pilot’s lounge and a 24-hour, self-serve fueling system, which offers AV gas 100LL and Jet A fuels. For more details regarding the Airport, please visit www.biglakescounty.ca or contact Mel Beaudette, Airport Operator at 780-523-8262.
Contact: Victoria Zahacy, Communications Coordinator, [email protected] or (780) 523 5955.