The Canadian Rockies International Airport is usually full of activity, what with airplanes landing and taking off and people arriving and leaving but on Tuesday it was especially busy, with Prime Minister Stephen Harper making an appearance.

Harper made the visit to Cranbrook to attend Kootenay-Columbia MP Jim Abbott's retirement party at Fort Steele Tuesday evening. Before the party though Harper made a funding announcement at the airport and then toured the College of the Rockies' expansion project.

Before making his announcement at the airport Harper spent some time in the terminal shaking hands and posing for photos with citizens.

Speaking to an audience of about 50 in a hangar at the airport (CRIA),with the door open so the mountains beyond were visible, Harper remarked on the beauty of the area.

“It's great to be here. I should mention in the past 20 years I have been to Cranbrook and the East Kootenays many times and…it always does my heart good to look at the Rocky Mountain Trench. It is a beautiful, beautiful part of this province,” he said. “It is no wonder pioneers were drawn here 150 years ago and it is no wonder that in more recent years you have been able to present it as a premier tourist destination. And to your credit you have made the farsighted decision to invest in those things that make it easier for more people to come here. Tourism is a win/win, visitors enjoy all you have to offer — the skiing, golfing and lakes and you enjoy the jobs and prosperity they bring.”

He praised the improvements that have been made to the airport, including the extension of the runway to accommodate larger airplanes and the expansion of the terminal.

“I am very pleased to announce further funding for safety related equipment and rehabilitative work on the taxiways and runways here,” Harper said. “We will be investing in safety-related improvements at 38 airports right across the country. It will be to the benefit of citizens of Cranbrook and the whole East Kootenay region. It will also be to the benefit of visitors and the benefits will endure for a very long time.”

The federal government is providing $5.6 million in support of essential safety and infrastructure upgrades at CRIA. The improvements include the replacement of a wet-dry chemical spreader and a decelerometer (winter friction testing device) and the rehabilitation of runways and taxiways.

Harper also praised Abbott's work for his riding throughout his 17 years of service, saying improvements at the airport were among the earliest infrastructure investment after the Conservative Park formed the government in 2006.

Cranbrook Mayor Scott Manjak welcomed Harper to the area and thanked him.

“Our community and region is genuinely thankful for your support. Your announcement will ensure safety for this airport and travelers who come into the region,” he said.

After leaving the airport Harper went on to tour the College of the Rockies expansion and then to Abbott's retirement party at Fort Steele.