Nova Scotia

Extensive renovations to the Halifax International Airport have turned this important transportation hub into a regional showpiece.

In the past ten years, Halifax International Airport has seen numerous additions and renovations in an attempt to manage the large increases in air travel. BMR has been involved in most of these projects.

BMR was the structural consultant for the air traffic control tower constructed on the airfield in 1996. This was a round, six level structure which required a complex framing system. The main roof situated above the cab floor is supported by three strategically located slender, built-up, hollow structural steel columns which permit maximum visibility of the airfield. Electrical services required at the roof run inside the hollow columns.

When the Airport Authority commissioned major renovations to the facility in 1997, BMR was chosen as the structural engineering firm. This project included a large addition and renovation of the Air Canada/Air Nova ticketing area, an addition to the north end departure lounge, a new first stage security area and the construction of the Maple Leaf Lounge. The Maple Leaf Lounge addition was constructed on top of the existing building. This meant structural upgrades to the existing building, from the roof right down to the foundation.

BMR was again chosen as structural consultant for a large renovation and expansion to the arrivals area of the airport in 2000. The new international arrivals area is the most visibly stunning part of this project, where passengers cross a bridge over a symbolic ocean to a large room showcasing Nova Scotia’s nautical and aviation history.

All work within the airport was carried out while minimizing disruptions to the travel plans of the more than three million airline passengers that use the airport every year. The upgraded terminal is more efficient and user-friendly - a showpiece for Maritime travellers.