RANKIN INLET – The new Rankin Inlet air terminal building has officially opened, marking a major step for the Nunavut community as governments at different levels gathered to celebrate the completion of the facility.
The opening was followed by a federal funding announcement of $85.5 million through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to support the Rankin Inlet Airfield Rehabilitation Project.
The latest investment comes on top of funding previously announced through the National Trade Corridors Fund, which contributed to the construction of the new terminal building.
The additional $85.5 million will now support the full rehabilitation of the airport’s runway and other key airfield infrastructure.
“As a critical gateway for northern communities, the airport plays an essential role in moving passengers, cargo, and vital supplies and services, including food and medical equipment,” the release said.
The AIF investment also complements funding from the Department of National Defence for runway rehabilitation, an investment that was reaffirmed by Prime Minister Carney earlier this year.
The project will specifically focus on improving the safety, reliability and capacity of the airport’s runway, taxiways and apron systems, which serve communities across the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut.
The work will also include the rehabilitation of approximately 141,000 square metres of airfield pavement, covering Runway 13/31, Taxiways A and C, as well as associated apron surfaces.
Once completed, the rehabilitation is expected to extend the airfield’s service life by 15 to 20 years, while reducing long-term maintenance requirements.
