Airport to get added customs service
After-hours customs service is expected to soon return to Kamloops Airport.
Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo Conservative MP Cathy McLeod said the decision is waiting on “crossing some t’s and dotting some i’s.”
The airport has had customs services from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays only.
McLeod noted with increased traffic through Fulton Field, particularly private planes heading to the airport after hours, she’s had many complaints about the lack of customs services, requiring planes to stop at Kelowna, Vancouver or Prince George to clear customs before heading to Kamloops.
Users will pay a surcharge, McLeod said.
McLeod’s announcement came as part of a press conference at the airport on Wednesday, March 13, to announce $544,310 from the federal government to pay for construction of a shelter for new firefighting and runway-maintenance equipment bought in the past two years.
McLeod noted the airport received $905,000 in 2011to buy the massive firefighting truck parked just past her as she spoke to the media and assembled politicians, and an additional $146,000 last year to buy additional equipment for de-icing and plowing the runways.
Kamloops Airport managing director Fred Legace said the announcement ensures “completion of the project to bring firefighting to Kamloops Airport.
Harry Noel, one of the firefighters who will use the equipment, said the foam-spraying truck is something he hopes he never has to actually activate.
“You pray to God you never have to use it,” he said.
“But, if you do, it’s not about putting out the fire on a plane, but laying down a foam blanket to make sure the passengers get off safely.”
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