Released on November 1, 2021
The week of November 1 through November 8 has officially been proclaimed as Aviation and Aerospace Week by the Government of Saskatchewan, providing an opportunity to celebrate the aviation sector's contributions to the province.
"I understand the important roles aviation and aerial applicators play in industries such as agriculture, mining, energy and tourism," Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw said. "Aviation, particularly in the north, serves as a lifeline for communities that often have few other travel options, acting as the primary means to access food, medical supplies and appointments, and other goods and services."
Air travel is also essential during times of crisis to evacuate communities during forest fires and floods. Multi-national companies and our own provincial businesses use aviation to move people quickly and efficiently. Aviation has been used extensively by companies such as the Richardson canola facility in Yorkton.
"The Saskatchewan Aviation Council (SAC) has been the voice of our industry for more than 30 years," SAC Council President Janet Keim said. "The aviation and aerospace industry in Saskatchewan continues to be a key driver of economic growth and has been vital to doing business in the province."
Numerous companies offer aerospace and manufacturing solutions with Saskatchewan being home of the NATO Flying Training in Canada program near Moose Jaw.
The ministry owns, operates and maintains 16 airports in northern Saskatchewan. Northern airports can apply for funding through the province's Community Airport Partnership (CAP) grant program, which is providing $1.5 million in matching funds this year through the province's stimulus program.
Since 2007, more than $10.5 million has been invested in Saskatchewan's community airports. When coupled with 50-50 matching community contributions, the CAP program has generated more than $21 million in airport improvements. A total of 38 different communities have benefited since the program's inception.
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For more information, contact:
Steve Shaheen
Highways
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-260-9159
Email: steve.shaheen@gov.sk.ca