Nanaimo Airport hosts aviation conference, boosting Central Island’s profile, economy

Nanaimo Airport plays host to the B.C. Aviation Council’s Spring Airports Conference on April 25 through 27, at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre and becomes the focal point of B.C. aviation this month. It will generate a significant boost to the local economy at the same time.

The event, following a theme of Shaping Our Future, brings more than 100 senior airport, airline, aviation authority, government and related business executives here from all over the province.

They’ll share information, tackle industry concerns and discuss solutions, and exchange ideas for the development of B.C.’s airports.

“We are delighted to welcome the BCAC team and the aviation community to the region,” shares Mike Hooper, President and CEO of the Nanaimo Airport.

The conference is one of the industry’s premier networking and educational/professional development events. Bringing it to Nanaimo represents a real coup for the region as it raises the profile of Central Vancouver Island — not just in B.C., but across the country.

The conference also generates substantial spending with area businesses, supporting local jobs. Statistics suggest that delegates to conferences in Nanaimo spend roughly $350 every day they’re here (source: Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association).

That money goes to purchase accommodation, food and beverages, and tours of the area. Delegates spend money on a variety of other products and services, too, including rental cars and taxis, audio-visual services, and souvenirs.

Another benefit from hosting the conference will be the tourism opportunities it creates. Decision-makers from around B.C. will be here — many of them for the first time — and see first-hand the region’s potential and natural beauty.

By hosting the conference, Nanaimo Airport Commission again proves that the aviation sector supports area residents in their everyday lives, attracts investment, and enables our resource-, tourism- and knowledge-based industries to thrive.