Deer Lake -
The Deer Lake Regional Airport obtained an important new addition to its emergency services this week.
The airport received a new aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle, which was specifically manufactured for the airport following a tender call earlier this year.
The airport received funding of approximately $680,000 from the 2009-2010 Airports Capital Assistance Program to cover the cost of the vehicle. The program funds capital projects related to safety and asset protection. To be eligible for the funding, the airport must have year-round regularly scheduled passenger service and cannot be owned or operated by the Government of Canada.
Oshkosh Corporation in Oshkosh, Wisconsin built the vehicle specifically to the airport's needs.
"Our team of certified firefighters recognizes the value of this equipment to our operation," said Jamie Schwartz, airport manager, in a press release.
"This state-of-the-art vehicle will enhance the airport's ability to respond to emergencies."
The airport currently has two aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles in its inventory, one dating from 1987 and the other from 1995. The new 2010 Oshkosh Striker will replace the older of the two vehicles.
"We're anxious to get it operational and into our inventory so it will be part of our emergency response plan," said Schwartz.
Airport firefighters will be trained on the new vehicle next week.
