July 15, 2019

Today in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, announced upgrades planned for the airfield at 5 Wing Goose Bay. Approximately, $2.3 million dollars in runway repairs are planned in the short term with a full runway repaving project and airfield lighting upgrades planned for the next few years.

As outlined in Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Government of Canada is investing in modern and efficient infrastructure to support the operational needs of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel. These upgrades will ensure 5 Wing’s airfield continues to support military and civilian air operations, while providing economic development opportunities for businesses in the region.

Also, MP Jones announced that the Government of Canada will be re-tendering the contract for the Wing’s facilities maintenance. The current contract expires in 2021, and we expect the Request for Proposals for a new 10-year contract to go out later this summer. This will ensure the 5 Wing Goose Bay is effectively maintained and continues to grow well into the future.

Quick Facts

• As 5 Wing’s runways were built in the 1950s, they are nearing the end of their intended service life and will soon need to be replaced. Regular maintenance and repair work is ongoing until these larger projects begin.
• On July 2, 2019, a $2.3 million runway repair contract was awarded to Markland Paving Ltd. from St. John’s, NL. The temporary airfield restrictions for heavy aircraft are expected to be lifted once this work is completed.
• The runway lighting and repaving projects are expected to be tendered in summer 2019, with work planned to take place over the next few summers.
• These projects will take place in the summer because of the weather and short construction season (typically June to September) in Goose Bay. Work will be sequenced so that one of 5 Wing’s runways always remains operational.
• 5 Wing Goose Bay supports a wide variety of military operations, including joint training for the Canadian Armed Forces, our Allies and NORAD.

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