Public input is being sought on how to improve Sarnia’s Chris Hadfield Airport, as a new 20-year master plan is being developed.
Resident and business surveys are ongoing until January 21, and there's a project webinar planned for January 11.
The City of Sarnia is working with HM Aero Aviation Consulting on the initiative which is being funded by FedDev Ontario.
HM Aero Aviation Consulting Planner of Aviation Ben Crooks believes the local airport can once again be viable, especially if passenger air service is reinstated. Air Canada pulled out of Sarnia in March of 2020.
"Kingston Airport lost Air Canada around the same time that Sarnia did and, I believe, in a couple of months they'll have a new carrier," said Crooks. "Waterloo is finding a niche in ultra low-cost services and they also have a regional carrier starting up there. So, I think there are opportunities to bring new businesses and new growth to Sarnia's airport. It will definitely take time and effort and resources to make that happen."
Crooks said the plan will also address the airport’s growth and development over the next two decades, infrastructure renewal, and opportunities to increase the overall economic and social benefit of the facility.
A link to the surveys, and to register for the upcoming webinar, can be found at here.
"The intent of both of those surveys is to really drill in on what the air service demand is in the region," he said. "Where do residents and businesses want to go? How often do they want flights coming in? What are some factors that influence their decision to fly out of Sarnia rather than London or Toronto Pearson for example."
It's hoped the master plan will be finalized and presented to Sarnia council in March of this year.