HM Aero was retained by the Columbia Valley Airport Society in 2023 to prepare a Master Plan for Fairmont Hot Springs Airport. The volunteer-run Airport Society’s oversight of the Airport began in 2020 following the withdrawal of the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort from funding and operations. The Airport is an active base for wildfire, air ambulance, and search and rescue operations and has the second longest runway in the Columbia Valley.

HM Aero completed an inspection of all infrastructure assets at the facility to assess their condition and future requirements, including a multiyear prioritization schedule and cost estimates.

An Airport Development Plan was created to identify areas for new private and commercial leasehold lots, land acquisition requirements, and aeronautical constraints. A series of economic development opportunities that are responsive to the regional context were identified to increase the Airport’s operating revenues and value.

Due to the aging airfield infrastructure, approximately $14M in capital renewal needs were outlined – careful consideration was given to being pragmatic in the recommendations made given the limitations of the Airport Society’s financial capacity. A series of five capital funding opportunities were enumerated to lessen the costs borne by the Airport Society. In addition, a proforma financial outlook was prepared to identify future requirements for external financial support from the Regional District of East Kootenay, including the creation of a designated airport funding service area.