Statement from the Mayor of Richmond Hill in Response to the Decision to Close the Air Traffic Control Tower at Buttonville Airport

RICHMOND HILL, ON -- On behalf of the Richmond Hill community and Council, I am calling on NAV CANADA to reconsider its decision to close the air traffic control tower at Buttonville airport on January 3, 2019. Community safety is our greatest priority and it is critical that the community advocate for the continued presence of NAV CANADA air traffic control services while the airport remains open.

Buttonville Airport is a hub for commercial and recreational pilots as well as student flyers. Situated adjacent to Highway 404, the airport is in a densely populated residential and commercial area that serves Richmond Hill, Markham and the Greater Toronto Area.

The property owner, Cadillac Fairview plans to keep the airport open until spring of 2023 and history shows that even with a control tower in place, there have been aviation accidents in the area. NAV CANADA’s decision to close the air traffic control tower is nothing short of irresponsible.

I urge you to contact your local Member of Parliament and the federal Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau, as soon as possible to share your concerns.

-30-