Using funds from the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF), the federal government will provide up to $49.5 million to upgrade the existing runway and access road at the Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport. This is in addition to the previous announcement by the Department of National Defence of a $230 million investment to upgrade and extend Inuvik’s runway. The two separate sources of funding are in recognition of the dual civilian/military use of the airport.
“Inuvik Airport plays a vital role in supporting communities across the Western Arctic and contributes to Canada’s broader transportation and northern priorities,” said federal Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon. “This investment will strengthen the airport’s capacity to serve the region, support operational readiness, and advance Canada’s defence, security and sovereignty objectives in the North.”
The airport is a critical hub in Canada’s Western Arctic, providing transportation links for the local population of over 3,000. The airport is also a forward operating location for the RCAF and NORAD. Its 6000-foot runway can handle CF-18 and F-16s under most circumstances, but it is not enough for F-35As, of which the RCAF is in the process of acquiring. The planned expansion for a 9,000-foot runway will accommodate fifth-generation fighter jets as well as larger military transport aircraft.
Complicating runway construction in the Arctic is the slow melting of the permafrost. This has led to heaving of the runway by up to a foot in places. This is requiring deeper excavation and laying of a sub-base to minimize instability.
The funds will also be used to widen taxiways and upgrade runway lighting and navigational aids.
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