Sault Ste. Marie's pursuit of a transpolar air freight-handling hub is a high-risk but high-reward venture, says the logistics consultant hired to report on its feasibility.
InterVISTAS Consulting Inc. reported to Sault Ste. Marie city council in late August on the Sault's and North Bay's investigation to become destinations for international cargo flights to and from Asia and Pacific Rim countries. The report is the fourth in a five-part, $85,0000-feasibility study commissioned by both cities, FedNor, and the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.
InterVISTAs recommends a formal partnership between the city and the Sault Ste. Marie Airport Development Corp. to define roles and responsibilities. Some consideration will be given to establish a free-trade zone and a call-centre distribution facility concept.
Key challenges for the Sault include lengthening its airway runway by 2,000 feet for a minimum of 8,000 feet. Infrastructure upgrades are expected to cost about $20 million.
