AVIATION WEEK IN SASKATCHEWAN

The week of October 25th to 31st has been designated as Saskatchewan Aviation Week, a time to celebrate the importance of aviation to the province.

"Since Regina's Ronald Groome became Canada's first licensed commercial pilot in 1920, aviation has made significant contributions to Saskatchewan's economic and social development," Highways and Transportation Minister Maynard Sonntag said. "It is fitting that we take this week to recognize and celebrate this industry's unique role within the provincial transportation system.

Saskatchewan's aviation industry supports the travel and tourism, agriculture, mining and manufacturing industries, as well as a variety of other social and industrial activities," Sonntag said. "In addition, for many communities in northern Saskatchewan, air travel provides the only year-round transportation link to the rest of the province."

Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation invests about $1.4 million per year toward air transportation infrastructure in Saskatchewan. Major projects at these facilities in 2004 included surfacing of the runway at the Pinehouse airport and runway improvements to the Stony Rapids airport.

Major activities planned for Aviation Week include the annual Wings of Saskatchewan conference and trade show, hosted by the Saskatchewan Aviation Council and Saskatchewan Aerial Applicators Association. In addition, the week also marks the 75th anniversary of the Saskatoon Airport.

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For More Information, Contact:

Doug Wakabayashi Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4805