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Government of Canada adjusts funding to support Phase 1 of YMX Aerocity
October 27, 2020 By Wings Staff
Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, on October 26 announced that Phase 1 work of the International YMX Aerocity of Mirabel’s aero-logistics and industrial hub project will begin as a result of the Government of Canada’s new distribution of investments made for the years 2020/21 and 2021/22.
On September 3, 2019, the government announced plans for a $50 million contribution to improve air cargo and logistics at YMX Aerocity. Transport Canada in its statement about the adapted funding notes the Covid-19 pandemic jeopardized the project launch and, as a result, the creation of some 500 jobs.
The investments in the YMX Aerocity project will now be made through the National Trade Corridors Fund, created by the federal government to support the flow of goods to international markets. Project work includes expanding the main apron and converting it to a freight apron, enhancing the area’s road network to improve access to the new freight apron, increasing the aircraft parking area capacity, and building a 20,000 m2 storage area for air cargo and logistics.
Phase 1 of the YMX Aerocity project primarily focuses on the Canadian operation of STELIA Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airbus, and A220 assembly in Mirabel.
“With this new structure of our investment this year, we are facilitating the launch of the first phase of expansion operations for the International Aerocity of Mirabel’s aero-logistics and industrial hub,” said Garneau. “This demonstrates our commitment to creating jobs in a sector heavily affected by COVID-19 and to stimulating economic recovery. Mirabel Airport will thus be able to remain competitive on the international market, and with today’s announcement, we can be confident that this project, so important to the local economy and our trade corridors, will be able to move forward without further financial obstacles.”
Philippe Rainville, President and Chief Executive Officer of Aéroports de Montréal, explains the funding was need for the organization to begin Phase 1 work. “This entails the construction of an industrial building that will allow STELIA Aerospace Canada to put together components for the Airbus plants assembling the A220,” he said. “STELIA is an important player in the Mirabel supply chain and we are proud to support it in its expansion plans, which will play a major role in the development of the airport site.”
