Changes are needed when it comes to the operation of Yorkton's airport say directors of the local Chamber of Commerce and it's up to the city to lead the charge.
Juanita Polegi, Executive Director of the Chamber spoke at council Monday, bringing up concerns and possible solutions to move the airport forward in a more positive direction.
"For the past few years, the Board of Directors of the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce has listed the development of the Yorkton Airport as a priority for the Chamber. As such, the Chamber has taken a keen interest in the work of the Yorkton Airport Authority, applauding its efforts to develop short and long term plans for the airport; securing funding for infrastructure improvements; and for generally increasing the community's awareness of the importance of the airport to both the economy of the city and to that of the entire region," says Polegi.
"In addition, the Chamber has sent letters of thanks to the Minister of Highways & Infrastructure for the funding received through CAP... The Chamber has also assisted in preparing and distributing a survey to its membership when Perimeter Aviation was contemplating Yorkton as a potential terminal location."
The local airport has great potential says Polegi and with that said, she believes that potential will not be realized if changes aren't forthcoming soon. The Chamber has looking into how other comparable airports are run - Red Deer, Medicine Hat, Lloydminster and Brandon - and as such, has come up with some recommendations as to what changes could occur. They include:
The hiring of a CEO. "The Chamber is of the opinion that a CEO can implement the plans developed by the former Airport Authority and begin to generate revenue... a dedicated CEO can ensure management of the airport is top priority.
Increasing the fuel surcharge. "The present rate of $0.025/litre is low. Comparable rates are $0.03/litre to $0.05/litre. For every 300,000 litres fuel sold at the Yorkton Airport that's an additional $1,500 in revenue."
Implementing landing terminal fees for all commercial carriers. This measure could equate to an additional $28,000 in revenue says Polegi.
Implementing an Enplaning and Deplaning fee. "At $5 per person enplaning and $5 per person deplaning - assuming 1,000 people per year - that's another $10,000..."
Beginning development at the airport by leasing property. "Development must follow a plan. Reviewing and then implementing the Airport Development Plan commissioned by the Yorkton Airport Authority in 2010, is a logical start."
Continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements. "Continue to seek funding through the Community Airport Partnership program and other funding sources.
"The Chamber is deeply concerned that if council does not begin to act upon these recommendations, the opportunity to develop and grow the airport will slip away."
After a brief discussion council opted to refer the matter to the Airport Authority for further consideration.
