Fort McMurray, AB – Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Fort McMurray, AB (December 18, 2019) – The Fort McMurray Airport Authority is bringing back Canada Customs to help accelerate the customer experience in 2020. Thanks to a funding partnership through the Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation’s (WBEDC) Strategic Investment Fund, local residents will return direct to Fort McMurray this winter with Caesars Rewards from Laughlin Nevada, in just under four hours.
“Our organizations share a common goal, and that is to increase the flow of trade and travellers to our region,” says RJ Steenstra, President and CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “Air transportation, economic prosperity and quality of life are all interdependent, and we are pleased to see WBEDC equally recognize and support these synergies.”
Airports are responsible for funding Canada Customs services, either by investing their own revenue, securing funding partnerships, or a combination of the two. The Airport Authority joins WBEDC in this strategic investment and is pleased to contribute matching funds towards reinstating Canada Customs services at the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). With Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) operations, the Airport Authority will be in a stronger position to attract more transborder destinations for the community.
“Investing in this CBSA partnership will open further opportunities of international destinations for our community,” says Kevin Weidlich, President & CEO of the WBEDC. “A combination of domestic and international air service enables tourism growth and positions the region as a top destination for attractions such as the Northern Lights, conferences, meetings and sporting events.”
Although YMM has not had Canada Customs services since 2015, the airport never lost its international airport designation. To be an international airport, the facility must have the ability to separate domestic from international travellers, which can be achieved at YMM.
“Reinstating Canada Customs will enhance travel and business opportunities for residents and support this important community asset,” says Mayor Don Scott. “YMM was created to help our region meet its needs well into the future and we are excited to see the Airport Authority leading it to its full potential.”
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About Fort McMurray International Airport
The Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) owns and operates the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). FMAA is a self-funded, not-for-profit corporation that operates like a local business. Surplus revenue generated from commercial activities are reinvested back into airport infrastructure to meet safety, security and environment regulations.
Media Contacts
Fort McMurray Airport Authority
Margaret Ziolecki / Senior Manager Government & Public Affairs
Direct: +1 780 793 7548
Email: Margaret.Ziolecki@FlyYMM.com
Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation
Andrea Haley/ Director, Brand & Corporate Services
Direct: +1 780 799 5820
Email: andrea@choosewoodbuffalo.ca