Hundreds of people packed into what was once known as the Stephenville International Airport on Friday to celebrate the re-opening of the facility. Downgraded to an aerodrome and closed last year after the power was cut, the talk on Friday was all about opportunities. Mayor Bob Byrnes says this important gateway to the region is now entering a new chapter.
Next up at the podium was Brett Stevenson, the new chair of the board who is also a managing partner at BTG Capital, which acquired the facility earlier this year. He thanked the community and stressed the importance of this investment.
Dave McGrath is the Manager of Stephenville International Airport’s Operations and Business Development. He says this is just day one and there’s much more to come, saying the goal is getting the airport back up and running.
Debbie Brake-Patton is with the Chamber of Commerce and says they represent over 100 businesses in the area, and are ready to help.
Long Range Mountains MP Carol Anstey spoke about opportunities when air, sea and road transportation work together to support regional industry and trade. She says reliable access becomes extremely important when communities face emergencies.
Premier Tony Wakeham is also the MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port and says even through challenging times, people in the region have believed in the potential of the facility with its 10K foot runway capable of accommodating the largest aircraft in the world.
Wakeham spoke about the potential for aviation and passenger services, cargo and logistics, aerospace industrial development, and defense related opportunities, as well as for tourism and new investment, businesses and jobs.
