Regina airport could be ‘out of cash’ soon, says CEO

The CEO of the Regina Airport Authority will be among those watching the federal throne speech closely Wednesday.

James Bogusz is hoping for signs that the federal government will provide financial relief for airports affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re hoping to hear airports mentioned so we can start looking forward to some support because none has been announced,” he told the Greg Morgan Morning Show on Wednesday.

The airport has bills due at the end of the month, including property taxes, and he said the money is running out.

“Our money is depleting and we’re going to be out of it — literally out of cash in the bank and into our credit line — in the next 30 to 60 days depending on how the bills fall,” he said. “Basically, that’s going to be challenging to get out of that hole.”

Bogusz said passenger traffic at the Regina airport remains low, at about 18.5 per cent of its normal level last month. The forecast in September is not looking much better.

“The airlines have not added on any new flights. In fact, there has been a little bit of a reduction in some frequency to Calgary. It’s really starting to flatten out at this point,” he said.

He noted the advisory against non-essential travel remains, with restrictions continuing to be extended at the U.S. border.

“It’s as challenging as possible for anyone in aviation right now,” Bogusz said.

Meanwhile, Bogusz noted one big change is in effect at the airport due to COVID-19: Personnel who do security screening on the second floor now are checking each passenger’s temperature before the person enters the security area.