Updates
November 2007 – The Work is Progressing
We are indeed making progress. Perhaps you’ve noticed painting activity on the east platform. While the flight transfer to the newly expanded terminal will only happen in late February or early March, it is not possible to paint lines in the cold wet weather. As such, we managed to get it done before the snow fell last week.
In the next few weeks, loading bridges for gates 23, 25 and 27 will be installed. These bridges were manufactured in Fort Worth, Texas and are being shipped via tractor trailer. The trailers used to transport them are over 36 metres (120 feet) long with a ground clearance of roughly 10 cm (4 inches), which means that these trucks cannot just go anywhere. Taking the bridges onto the platform requires opening the security fence for access; the trucks cannot negotiate the curves on the access road to the site or the hump across from the Transport Canada hangar.
And as progress is made with the new construction, demolition of the old terminal also progressed in the unoccupied areas. Almost all combustible materials have now been removed; walls, flooring, counters, etc.
In early January, loading zones 30 and 32 will be closed and demolition of the structure will begin in this area. After the flight transfer to the expanded terminal has been completed, the wreckers will tackle the rest. In principle, demolition should be finished in May. Once completed, the platform will be built and new loading bridges will be installed. Everything should be complete before next winter.
As for the construction of the new wing, the work is going well there too. The installation of the floor tiles is almost finished and work on the ceiling is progressing very well. Electricians are running the wires that are used for the electrical supply and the information technology infrastructure that powers alarms, computers, security doors, etc. This major task should be done at or about the end of January, which will leave us about one month to train the people who will be working in the new space, to complete the final computer system checks and to put the finishing touches to the paint.
Finally, construction of the new third level Maple Leaf Lounge is also progressing well. Visitors to the Lounge will have a stunning view over the aprons and runways. The Lounge will also have its own stairway and dedicated elevator.