Release date: 
Wednesday, October 27, 2010

October 27, 2010 (Ottawa) – The Ottawa International Airport Authority introduced the newest members of its team, including four additions to the airport’s Emergency Response Service fleet and seven new multi-function Snow Removal Systems. The new vehicles represent an investment of $11 million in airport safety and efficiency.

The emergency response fleet renewal began in 2009 with the addition of a new Command Vehicle, and was completed over the past few months with the arrival of three new Rosenbauer Panther 6 x 6 vehicles. Each features increased water and foam capacity, representing an increase in firefighting capacity of more than 30%. One truck is equipped with a High Reach Extendable Turret and “stinger” that will allow an aircraft fuselage to be pierced for internal firefighting.

The multi-function snow removal systems include snow tractor, sweeper and cradling broom head. Each four-wheel drive unit includes a 24 foot plow and 22 foot sweeper that will clean 120 to 140 foot widths in one pass, reducing total runway cleaning time from more than 40 minutes to approximately 15 minutes. The increased efficiency will help our airline partners maintain their schedules in inclement weather.

Both fleets will have the advantage of advanced technology; they are equipped with night scan lighting, Forward Looking Infra Red camera technology and Driver Enhanced Vision systems that incorporate GPS tracking. These features will mean greater safety for the firefighters and operators who use the equipment. Other features and benefits are attached.

New Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Airport Authority, Raymond Brunet, is particularly proud of the investment saying “we have modern, efficient facilities that will now be supported by equipment and training of the highest caliber.” He added “this investment is a win for the entire community”.

“Safety and security is the Airport Authority’s biggest priority. The investment in technology and equipment means added protection for our employees and we will now have even cleaner and therefore safer runways, taxiways and aprons which is great news for our passengers and our airline partners” said Paul Benoit, Airport Authority President and CEO.

OMCIAA operates Ottawa International Airport without government subsidies under a 60-year lease transfer agreement with Transport Canada. The OMCIAA’s mandate is to manage, operate and develop airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region.

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