The Timmins Victor M. Power Airport 2022-2042 Master Plan outlines a transformative vision for the next two decades, with a $120 million investment earmarked for infrastructure upgrades, facility expansions, and economic development. As the key aviation hub connecting Timmins to the rest of Canada and the world, the airport plays a vital role in regional commerce, trade, and connectivity.
The master plan presents a strategic roadmap divided into short-term, medium-term, and long-term priorities, ensuring the airport remains equipped to meet growing demands while fostering regional development.
With an estimated annual passenger traffic growth of 1.1%, the airport is projected to accommodate approximately 277,000 travelers annually by 2041. To sustain this growth, the plan includes necessary upgrades to infrastructure, facilities, and regulatory frameworks.
According to Airport Manager Dave Dayment, the airport currently contributes $90 million in GDP and generates $200 million in total economic output for Ontario’s economy. With the planned investments, these numbers are expected to increase significantly, strengthening the airport’s role as a key economic driver in Northern Ontario.
Timmins News reports that the master plan proposes major investments in runways, taxiways, terminal facilities, parking, and commercial development. The phased development strategy is structured as follows:
Parking improvements to accommodate increasing passenger numbers.
Equipment optimization for better operational efficiency.
Façade upgrades to modernize the airport's aesthetic appeal.
Apron I and II rehabilitation to improve aircraft movement efficiency.
New taxi bypass connecting Taxiway Charlie to the threshold of Runway 03 to alleviate congestion.
Expansion of the terminal building to enhance passenger experience.
Car park expansion and realignment of Airport Road to address parking shortages.
Runway improvements, including new holding bays at the thresholds of Runways 10 and 21.
Replacement of Taxiway Alpha with two new 23-meter-wide taxiways to mitigate the risk of runway incursions.
Runway extensions and lighting enhancements to accommodate larger aircraft.
Implementation of Runway End Safety Areas (RESA) for increased safety.
Development of commercial lands south of the airport for aviation-related businesses.
Construction of full-length parallel taxiways for Runways 03-21 and 10-28 to support increased air traffic.
New partial parallel taxiway connecting Apron II to Runway 28 to enhance aircraft movement.
The terminal improvements will focus on providing modernized check-in areas, expanded boarding lounges, and streamlined security screening processes. The addition of new curbside access will further optimize traffic flow for both private and public transportation services.
Energy-efficient lighting and building materials will be used for all new developments.
Runway safety improvements, including RESA and Surface Surveillance and Alerting Systems (SSALR), will be incorporated to meet global aviation safety standards.
Weather-resistant infrastructure will be integrated to improve operational resilience during harsh winters.
The development of the airport will have a multifaceted impact on Timmins and surrounding regions:
Job creation: The investment will generate construction jobs in the short term and long-term employment opportunities in aviation, retail, and logistics.
Business expansion: New commercial developments will attract aviation-related businesses and stimulate local commerce.
Improved accessibility: Enhanced airport facilities will support better air connectivity for businesses and travelers, fostering regional trade and tourism.
The $120 million investment will require funding from all levels of government. The City of Timmins, the Ontario provincial government, and federal aviation agencies will collaborate to secure the necessary financing.
With the Timmins Victor M. Power Airport acting as a gateway to Northern Ontario, strategic investments in infrastructure and operational improvements will be crucial to sustaining regional economic growth.
The Timmins Victor M. Power Airport 2022-2042 Master Plan sets the stage for a thriving, modern, and efficient airport that will meet future demand while supporting economic development. The commitment to infrastructure enhancements, sustainability, and passenger experience improvements will ensure that the airport remains a key transportation hub for decades to come.
As the project moves forward, community members, businesses, and government stakeholders will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation in Timmins. With the first phases of development set to begin soon, the airport is poised for an exciting transformation that will strengthen Northern Ontario’s connectivity and economic resilience.