The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced an increase in customs services at the Charlottetown Airport from eight hours a day to sixteen. This increase means it will be easier for the airport to schedule and attract new international flights.
“We’ve been lobbying Ottawa for increased customs services at the Charlottetown Airport for a long time,” says Minister of Transportation and Public Works Ron MacKinley. “This increased service will allow the airport to better compete for international flights without negatively affecting its bottom line.”
Until now, CBSA provided customs officers for eight hours a day at no cost to the airport. But if customs officers were required outside of those eight hours, the airport would have to foot the bill, and that cost would eventually find its way to the consumer. The increase in service covers all international flights currently travelling through Charlottetown, and opens the door to attracting new flights.
“This move will allow the Charlottetown Airport to redirect funds normally spent on customs services,” says Airport Authority CEO Doug Newson. “We expect our savings will be put to use improving our facilities and marketing our product, rather than paying for a service which many other airports receive for free.”
Increased customs services for the Charlottetown Airport was a top priority when Minister MacKinley met with his national counterparts in Ottawa this past April.
“It’s clear our message was received loud and clear at the national meetings,“ says Minister MacKinley.