History
Before the conception of the Edmonton International Airport in 1960, Edmonton Municipal Airport existed, operating the early aviation era of Edmonton from 1916 onwards. Presently the two airports co-exist, servicing commercial, industrial, recreational, and international businesses.
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Timeline |
| 1920-40’s | 1950’s | 1960’s | 1970’s | 1980’s | 1990’s - 2000s |
In 1920 the Edmonton Airplane Company was established, consisting of only one small aircraft hanger and a grass exhibition ground area as a runway.
In 1955 the new site location for Edmonton International Airport was chosen.
Approximately 7,600 acres of good farmland was purchased at a cost of $ 1.5 Million.
Construction of the new airport officially began in 1957.
By the end of the 50’s, the airport had constructed two runways, both over 10,000 feet long.
Edmonton International Airport begins officially operating in November 15, 1960.
It was built by the Department of Transport, in collaboration with the city of Edmonton, to take away the pressure that the Edmonton Municipal Airport was trying to cope with.
With the construction of the new airport, the municipal airport was developed into an industrial and commercial airport.
Trans-Canada Airlines, Western Airlines, and North West Airlines began flying service out of Edmonton International Airport in 1960.
A $10 Million terminal building was put into service in 1963 by the Department of Transport.
Between 1962 and 1964 the new airport was largely under-utilized, in part to a decline in economic conditions.
In 1973 a new plan was drafted concerning the Edmonton Municipal Airport
The plan stated that the airport would remain a special purpose airport handling commercial and industrial services, a satellite airport would be constructed to serve as a training and recreational flying center, and new traffic patterns would be implemented to increase the airports accessibility.
In 1973 International Aviation constructed a new 10,000 foot air freight building that was leased to CP Air.
Unlike the early 1960’s, the early 1970’s saw the new Edmonton International Airport come to life, even showing signs of overcrowding.
Airport revenues increased 57% during the early 70’s, partially due to three new American Airlines issuing service to the airport and a renewed economy.
By 1979, U.S Customs and Immigration was established at the airport, allowing foot passengers to be cleared into the United States before arriving.
International Aviation constructed another new building that is presently used by Canada Customs.
In the early 80’s several runways were upgraded with new asphalt.
During 1983-84, a $21 Million upgrade was completed on the air terminal building, creating more space for Canada Customs, Immigration, restaurants, bars, gift shops and other store outlets.
In 1983 a new fire-hall was built on site.
During 1988, over two million passengers and 84,000 aircraft passed through Edmonton International.
Currently Edmonton International is the fifth busiest airport in all of Canada with respect to total passenger use.
It is the second largest airport in Canada in terms of land occupied (@7000 acres).