Shovels are back in the ground at Comox Valley Airport. The latest improvement project is the construction of an aviation fueling facility in the south west corner of the Airport lands.

Acting CEO Ian Heselgrave says "The Comox Valley Airport, in partnership with Shell Aviation, has taken an important step towards operational self sufficiency with the forthcoming ability to provide aviation jet fuel to aircraft of all shapes and sizes. We anticipate that the work should be completed at the beginning of December with the refueling service operational shortly thereafter."

Heselgrave emphasized that "This important expansion to the CVAC infrastructure would not have occurred without the ongoing support and partnership from 19 Wing Comox." Up until now, all fuel requirements have been fulfilled by 19 Wing Comox. Having an independent fuel operation further opens the door for attracting additional long haul and international carriers.

Expanding air service is at the forefront of CVAC's long range strategic plan. Each additional flight from YQQ translates into significant economic boost to the regional economy. According to a study completed in 2007, the combined airport and tourism operations in the region support 9,100 direct person years of employment, representing 11,300 jobs. This fueling project will create several short term construction jobs as the majority of the facility construction work is being undertaken by local contractors. Two and a half full time permanent operations' positions were created at the Airport to support the additional tasking created by the provision of refueling services.

"The completion of the fuel facilities is ideal timing for our flights to Mexico.We never know from year to year what the air carriers and travel companies will propose for winter getaways. Given the economic climate, we were pleasantly surprised to see an expansion of service from Comox to Mexico." West Jet is offering direct flights to Puerto Vallarta commencing in early November. Transat Holidays is expanding their service from previous years and offering packages to both Puerto Vallarta and Cancun. Also going to Cancun will be Sunwing Vacations. People interested in booking a flight to Mexico can visit www.comoxairport.com or call their travel agent.