A new 5,000-foot taxiway at the Collingwood Regional Airport (CNY3) represents a significant investment in the economic growth and prosperity of the region. Airport President, Geordie Dalglish of Winterland Airfield Holdings Ltd. says the new addition significantly increases airport capacity, while enhancing the safety of pilots and passengers.

“Prior to construction of this taxiway, aircraft had to taxi on the actual runway whereas now, a plan landing or taking off can use the runway while waiting planes use the taxiway," said Dalglish.

Construction of the taxiway cost roughly $3 million and Dalglish proudly reports, “We have never taken a dime of government money.”

The new taxiway is named in honour of Ray Conn, a longtime friend and mentor to Dalglish.

“There was a lot of controversy when the airport went private. Ray was a big support and a good sounding board. He persuaded me to keep going in the face of some stiff opposition.” Dalglish continues, “Ray was a local farmer and businessman and the past owner of Conns Sand and Gravel. He had a passion for flying and was a true mentor to the airport. Ray helped push us through our initial struggles with his advice and determination. Someone who quietly made a big difference in so many lives. We would not be where we are today without his encouragement, quite possibly we might not be here at all.”

The occasion was celebrated with an Elephant Walk – a ground parade of aircraft – which Dalglish says gets its name from the slow, ungainly progress of multiple planes down the taxiway. “This is about $100 million worth of aircraft all lined up in a row.”

Simcoe Grey MP Terry Dowdall congratulated the airport on this milestone, and said, “The sky is the limit with the right leadership in place.”