The Nunatsiavut Government (“NG”) is planning to build a new certified airport for the Inuit Community of Nain, NL (the “Project”) to replace the existing airport infrastructure that is currently under stress from the effects of climate change. The new site will have a gravel airstrip measuring 5000 ft in length and 100 ft in width, exclusive of the manoeuvring areas, with a surface area of approximately 1300 m² set aside for future development (the “New Airport”). The New Airport will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to serve the local population during all seasons and will act as the centre for emergency response for the region. The construction of an access road to connect Nain to the New Airport is part of the Project.
The Project is presently at the stage of feasibility studies which should be completed by the end of 2024. As part of this stage, data will be collected and feasibility studies will be carried out, in particular the following studies will be conducted:
- R1 – Weather Station and collect data (phase 1)
- R2 – Topographic survey
- R3 – Environmental Review - Desktop Assessment
- R4 – Surficial geology, geomorphology, permafrost and hydrogeological investigations
- R5 – Meteorological Studies and Report (phase 2)
- R6 – Hydrological study
- R7 – Electrical Power Supply Alternatives
- R8 – Preliminary engineering services
- R9 – Preliminary architectural design services
- R10 – Construction and supply strategy
- R11 – Cost estimation
- R12 – Environmental Impact Assessment
NG is currently seeking proposals to conduct the Meteorological studies and report (phase 2) (R5) that will be required for the subsequent stages of the project: design, construction and environmental monitoring or impact assessment.
