International

new airlines and air services, and they have supported the ongoing
efforts to secure U.S. pre-clearance.
During the design and construction of the domestic arrivals area,
HIAA collaborated with economic development agencies and industry
associations to develop the facility’s smart city theme, including the
installation of an innovative, interactive business-information kiosk that
promotes local industry to the travelling public.
In September, the airport was pleased to support the Nova Scotia
International Air Show, providing facilities and services for various aircraft.
Blue Tartan Welcome
A unique feature of Halifax International Airport is the volunteer host
program. After two years in operation, there are almost 100 volunteer
hosts who are on duty providing directions, information, assistance, and a
warm Maritime welcome to passengers daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
In addition, the airport tour program, now in its fifth year, continues
to be popular with schools and community organizations. Nearly all of
the groups who have taken it have rated the airport tour as one of the
best available.
A Voice on National Issues
In February, Reg Milley, president and CEO of the airport authority, was
named Vice Chair of the Canadian Airports Council (CAC). The CAC
represents 40 members, which between them operate over 120 airports
and provide service to more than 97 per cent of all passengers travelling
in Canada. As a member of the CAC executive, HIAA has a strong voice,
and has been actively involved in working with and lobbying government
on issues of national concern to airports such as the development of the
new Canada Airports Act, Transport Canada’s rent policy, and the
government of Canada’s policy on security fees.
Remembering September 11th
The U.S. Consul General, Stephen Kashkett, and Premier John Hamm
hosted a September 11th anniversary memorial ceremony in the airport’s
international arrivals area.
Approximately 350 people attended this moving commemoration
including the Honourable Myra Freeman, Lieutenant Governor of Nova
Scotia, and Mr. Freeman; provincial and federal politicians; airport
authority board members and staff; airport employees; volunteer hosts;
and local media.
Gathering Community Feedback
In August, the airport authority conducted a stakeholder survey to
evaluate HIAA’s success in developing and maintaining strong
relationships in the community. Among those who completed the survey,
95 per cent knew that the private sector had assumed responsibility for
administration of the airport, and 86 per cent believed that privatization
has been beneficial. Most respondents were aware of (94 per cent) and
approved of (92 per cent) the Airport Improvement Program.
Approximately 80 per cent of those surveyed felt that HIAA does an
excellent or very good job of communicating with stakeholders, and 95
per cent described the role the airport plays in facilitating economic
development as important.
Awards and Recognition
In 2002, HIAA was recognized for its leadership and community outreach.
Reg Milley, president and CEO, was named one of Atlantic Canada’s
Top 50 CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine and was the bronze winner of
the Metropolitan Halifax Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the
Year award.
The airport authority received two Gemstone Awards from the Nova
Scotia Chapter of the Canadian Public Relations Society for its 2001
annual report and its management of communications during the
September 11th crisis.
The Royal United Services Institute of Nova Scotia presented the
airport authority with an award for its efforts to ensure the safety and
security of passengers and staff.
Finally, WHW Architects Inc. received The Lieutenant Governor’s
Award for Architecture: Medal of Excellence for their work on Halifax
International Airport’s north-end expansion project.
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a calls, held 8 news conferences, issued 14 news releases, and responded to 540 web requests. Planning & Engineering managed 42 construction projects totaling approximately $12,800,000.