New fee structure coming to Abbotsford airport

Changes will soon be coming to the Abbotsford Airport, and it is hoped that they will make it more appealing to new airline clients.

In a recent meeting, the city council approved changes to the bylaws that govern what fees the airport charges to the airlines that use it. Though these fees were supposed to be in place until December of 2015, changes in the industry since they were set have resulted in the need for them to lower the costs they charge to the airlines that use them if they wish to remain competitive.

This is especially true for Abbotsford, as it is in close proximity to both the Vancouver and Bellingham, Washington airports. It is felt that the lower cost may be very enticing to West Jet, and they will add service to Abbotsford. This will, in turn, lead to more people coming through the facility on a daily basis.

It is expected that, in spite of the lower fees, the increase in the number of flights will result in higher revenues through such streams as parking and retail services. This additional income can be used to help pay for facility maintenance and to build a reserve should major expansion or repairs be required in the future.

If airlines do decide to add flights in and out of Abbotsford, they will be able to use promotional materials produced by a flyer printing company to let their area customers know about the new service that may be more convenient for them.