Our Success
Our philosophy for success has been a progressive one. In order for the Rocky Airport to thrive, the surrounding communities must also benefit from our presence. A small or midsized airport cannot maintain its success without the support of the communities it services. On-going communication is key to this success.
Without exception, the Municipalities of Rocky Mountain House and Clearwater have shown outstanding support to their airport. Rocky Mountain House Airport is considered to be one of the most user friendly airports in the country due, in part, to this support.
You only get one opportunity to make a first impression!
Some of the most influential business people and politicians affecting the Rocky and Clearwater areas travel into the M.D. and Rocky Mountain House ("Rocky" to most of us) through our airport, and this is where they receive their first impression of who we are as a community and what we have to offer. The Alberta Airport Operators Association considers our airport to be one of the top 5 most successful airports in Alberta.
In 1996 the Alberta Provincial Government owned and operated the Rocky Mountain House Airport. In 1994 the Provincial Government signed a contract with the town and Municipal District to have them operate and manage the airport. If it could be successfully managed for 10 years the province would turn over ownership. In 1994 the operating budget was exceeding government funding, and obviously if changes were not forthcoming, within 2 1/2 years the airport would be broke.
- 1998 - Multi million dollar upgrade paid for through Alberta Forestry with the influence and support of Ty Lund. The runway sub-base and pavement were separating with water between them. Old runway was 6400' long with a 5000' landing area that was certified. The new runway is 5500' long 5500' certified. Modern Forest Fighting Tanker base built with state-of-the-art run off collection system designed to collect any oil or fuel spills. Raised runway 2 feet. Resurfaced the Apron/Ramp area. The airport Commission paid for Ramp extension 50' to the North, paved the taxiway and parking lot. New Airport Manager Ken Fowler. Three new hangars.
- 1999 - New private above ground fuel tanks installed. 1st bi-annual Rocky Air Show
- 2000 - Forestry, new bunk trailers
- 2001 - 4 new private hangars
- 2002 - 100' Ramp extension to the South. One large commercial hangar. New entrance sign 'T-33'. Moving weather station (Environment Canada). Larger Air show.
- 2006 - An airshow with attendance that exceeded the population of the Town of Rocky.
- 2008 Forestry begins extensive overhaul of their base. To be phased in over a 3 year period. o $200,000 taxiway expansion o Rocky Mountain House Airshow. Did not break attendance records, but was considered to be the most successful to date.
Our annual operating budget is between $130k -$140k. There are currently 4 Airport Commission Buildings and 19 private buildings for a total of 23. The Airport Commission receives revenues from Land/Hangar Lease Agreements, Fuel Flowage Fees, Tie-down and parking fees, Terminal rental space, Hay lease, and Advertising space.
