Canadian North (5T, Yellowknife) will match the Canadian federal government's investment of CAD11 million Canadian dollars (USD8.15 million) to build a new cargo warehouse for the Inuit-owned airline at Ottawa International, bringing the total combined funding for the project to CAD22 million (USD16.3 million). On completion, the project is expected to double the capacity of Canadian North in Ottawa.
"The growing demand from Canada's remote and northern communities highlights the essential role of cargo in supporting Inuit communities and ensuring food security. With a joint investment of CAD22 million, the new freight facility in Ottawa will double Canadian North's capacity by 2026, strengthening vital links between the North and the rest of Canada," commented Canadian North President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Rodyniuk.
Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez said the federal government's contribution of CAD11 million would be made through the National Trade Corridors Fund, a CAD4.6 billion (USD3.4 billion) 11-year (2017-2028) programme to improve Canada's roads, railways, airways, and marine routes to facilitate domestic and international trade.
The new warehouse at Ottawa International Airport aims to reduce cargo handling delays and increase connectivity between different modes of transportation at the airport. The project will expand the truck loading area, where queues have created congestion in the past.
The new facility will adopt environmentally friendly technologies and expand energy-efficient refrigeration and freezing areas to reduce waste and safeguard essential goods destined for Canada's Arctic. The facility will also include a backup power system to ensure continuity of service during severe weather events.
