Expanded terminal connecting Winnipeg to remote communities ‘a lifeline’

People flying in and out of northern Manitoban will notice some big changes at Perimeter Aviation.

An aviation company connecting Winnipeg to northern Manitoban communities has expanded its terminal in a push to upgrade connectivity of cargo and passengers in remote areas.

Perimeter Aviation unveiled the new terminal in Winnipeg on Thursday—a nearly 22,000-square-foot expansion of the facility the company has operated out of for 40 years.

According to Perimeter Aviation, the upgrade will lead to higher efficiency in dispatching passenger flights and cargo, boosting connectivity between remote First Nations communities in Manitoba and Ontario.

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) Grand Chief Kyra Wilson Kyra Wilson said aviation is essential for health care, food security, and economic opportunities in northern and remote communities.

This expansion, she said, goes beyond infrastructure.

“Every flight connects our people to care and opportunity and to their families and what I believe right now—this is definitely reconciliation in action.”

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Garrison Settee said the terminal is a lifeline for First Nation communities, as the majority of passengers who fly with Perimeter are seeking medical treatment.

“I feel very appreciative that there’s a lot of space for our people to be able to be comfortable, especially when they’re travelling for medical reasons, that there’s a lot of space here, and it also reflects the culture of our people. I’m very proud of that.”

The new terminal includes two new gates, allowing multiple flights to take off at the same time, a reconstructed apron, an upgraded outbound baggage system, a new restaurant, custom Indigenous artwork, and enhanced, energy-efficient lighting, mechanical systems, and windows.

Perimeter Aviation President Joey Petrisor said the terminal will also help to ensure the company continues to serve these communities responsibly, screening passengers, baggage, and freight for illicit substances.

“This is especially important since a lot of our communities are grappling with drug epidemics that threaten the safety of the residents.”

The project was funded in part by a $9.5 million contribution through a federal program funding infrastructure projects that improve the flow of goods across Canada.

- With files from CTV’s Jamie Dowsett