The airport in Chatham-Kent is starting to rebound after taking a hit in business over the past two years because of COVID-19.
A new report presented to council Monday showed that the pandemic played a significant role in reducing the amount of business in 2020. It also showed that business bounced back a bit in 2021.
Now the airport is planning to make some significant changes to its facility in the future.
According to the report, the airport will be constructing two additional private corporate hangars, expanding its taxiway and apron, as well as the addition of scheduled air service to Toronto.
Airport Manager Marian Smith said the airport also plans on operating a flight school for aspiring pilots.
"The airport plays a pivotal role in the community," said Smith. "It connects our community to the world."
Annual movement at the airport has decreased over the past two years, but Smith anticipates that to change over the next five years.
"We are hoping to start construction on some of the hangars in June," said Smith. "As for the new cafe, it will be open for breakfast and lunch starting June 1. As for the transportation, we don't have a timeline for that. As soon as the cafe opens we will start working on that."
