The M.D. of Bonnyville has approved a new bylaw for the Bonnyville Regional Airport, establishing formal rules as activity at the airport continues to grow.

Council adopted the Airport Bylaw during its June 9 meeting following a discussion about safety, accountability and the airport’s role in future economic development.

The move comes as the airport sees increasing use. Council heard that annual aircraft movements have steadily increased over the past several years, rising from roughly 1,400 flights in 2021 to more than 1,900 in 2025. May 2026 was also reported as the busiest May since the municipality acquired the airport.

Administration said the new bylaw creates a clear framework for how the airport operates, covering everything from aircraft parking and tie-down areas to fueling procedures, vehicle access and enforcement measures.

The goal, council heard, is to create consistency for airport users while ensuring the facility remains safe, professional and attractive for future investment.

Preparing for future growth

As aviation activity increases, administration said formal regulations become increasingly important.

The bylaw establishes expectations for pilots, aircraft owners, contractors and other airport users. It also provides the municipality with tools to address safety concerns and operational issues as they arise.

Among the provisions are rules governing aircraft parking, tie-down permits, fueling operations, vehicle access on airport property, and the use of approved equipment around aircraft.

The bylaw also introduces a schedule of penalties for violations ranging from unsafe fueling practices to unauthorized vehicle access and damage to airport property.

Council debates timing

While councillors supported the bylaw itself, there was discussion about whether all three readings should be completed during the same meeting.

Ward 1 Councillor Josh Crick said he supported the bylaw but questioned whether additional time should be allowed for public review before final approval.

Ward 3 Councillor Dan Amalia expressed similar concerns, noting that he was comfortable with the content but hesitant to move through all three readings at once.

Deputy Reeve Ben Fadeyiw said many of the provisions formalize practices already being followed at the airport and primarily affect airport users rather than the public at large.

Ward 2 Councillor Caroline Palmer also voiced support for moving forward, noting the importance of maintaining a professional airport environment.

“We’re trying to present ourselves with a professional airport to attract business and this is the right step forward in doing so,” Palmer said.

A regional asset

The Bonnyville Regional Airport continues to serve local businesses, industry, private aviation and emergency services throughout the region.

As council looks to support economic growth and attract future investment, members heard the airport remains an important piece of regional infrastructure.

With the bylaw now in place, the municipality says airport users will have clearer expectations while staff will have stronger tools to ensure safe and efficient operations moving forward.

Council ultimately approved all three readings, officially adopting the new Airport Bylaw.