🇨🇦 Red Deer Regional Airport

The Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF) is located in Springbrook, Alberta, Canada, positioned between Calgary and Edmonton on the QEII highway. It operates as a regional airport supporting charter travel and aviation operators.

Notable Features and History:

• Historical Significance: The airport was originally built during World War II as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, known as Number 36 Service Flight Training School (SFTS). It later became Number 4 Flying Training School (FTS) for NATO training during the Cold War and eventually Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Penhold.
• Ownership and Operation: The Red Deer Regional Airport Authority (RDRAA), a non-profit corporation, assumed ownership and operation of the airport on September 1, 1999, with the City of Red Deer and Red Deer County as key stakeholders.
• Development Opportunities: YQF offers 800,000 m² of development-ready, fully serviced airside and groundside parcels, with flexible build-to-suit leasing options. It aims to attract MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), cargo, manufacturing, and UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) operations.
• Amenities: The airport provides free on-site parking and accessible amenities.

Current Status: The Red Deer Regional Airport is undergoing a three-phased expansion plan with $30 million in provincial funding.

• Phase 1 (Underway): Includes widening the main runway from 30 meters to 45 meters and strengthening the main apron and taxiway to accommodate low-cost airlines, cargo operators, and heavy aircraft maintenance facilities.
• Phase 2 (Expected to begin in 2023): Involves the construction of a new low-cost terminal and expansion of the main parking lot. An expanded passenger terminal opened in 2024.
• Phase 3 (Expected to begin in 2023, completion by 2026): Will expand Airport Drive, providing direct access from Highway 2A and Township Rd 374, and creating additional emergency access.

The airport currently hosts over 20 aviation-related businesses and employs more than 250 individuals. It contributes approximately $55 million in direct economic impact and $120 million in indirect benefits annually.

*Sources researched: flyreddeer.com*