YQF NEWS

Red Deer, Alberta — May 15, 2026 The Red Deer Regional Airport welcomed community members, stakeholders, tenants, partners and government representatives to its Annual Public Meeting on May 14, 2026, highlighting a year of strong operational performance, regional impact and strategic growth across Central Alberta.

The meeting showcased the airport’s accomplishments throughout 2025, including significant increases in aircraft activity, expanded community engagement, continued infrastructure investment and a renewed focus on economic development and regional connectivity.

“2025 was a year of momentum, discipline and purpose for Red Deer Regional Airport,” said Nancy Paish, CEO of Red Deer Regional Airport. “Our team remained focused on safe, efficient airport operations while advancing projects that support investment attraction, regional connectivity and community impact. Together with our partners and stakeholders, we are building an airport that is ready to fly and ready to support Central Alberta’s future.”

Among the highlights shared during the meeting:

• 46,440 aircraft movements were recorded in 2025, representing a 36% increase from 2024.
• The airport supported more than 300 jobs and generated an estimated $55 million in direct economic impact and $120 million in indirect economic impact.
• Medivac activity increased by 250%, reflecting the airport’s growing role in providing essential emergency air services to the region.
• Red Deer Regional Airport maintained a strong safety record, reporting no incidents or accidents resulting from airport policy, process or infrastructure.

The airport also celebrated several major infrastructure and development milestones, including the grand opening of Airport Drive, the opening of the new ISS Hangar and continued advancement of the Central Development Area, which includes approximately 200 acres of development-ready land designed to attract aviation, aerospace, manufacturing and industrial investment.

Community leadership and engagement remained a central focus throughout the year. Red Deer Regional Airport hosted and supported numerous events and initiatives, including Girls in Aviation Day Alberta, which welcomed 1,784 guests. Additional events such as Props & Pistons, Airport Workers Day, Boot Scootin’ BBQ, school tours, food drives and charitable partnerships reinforced the airport’s commitment to giving back and connecting with the community.

Looking ahead, Red Deer Regional Airport outlined several strategic priorities for 2026 focused on strengthening infrastructure, expanding services and continuing to create long term value for Central Alberta. Key priorities include advancing land development opportunities, strengthening medivac and essential air services, growing tenant investment and aviation training opportunities, delivering high-value community events and preparing for the 2026 Red Deer Regional Air Show. The airport also reaffirmed its vision to serve as “the aviation gateway and key economic driver for Central Alberta” while continuing to operate as an affordable, sustainable and community-focused regional airport.

For more information about Red Deer Regional Airport, visit www.flyreddeer.com.

Media Contact
Ashley Reierson
Director, Business Development & Communications
a.reierson@flyreddeer.com