Airport numbers may be optimistic
Times Colonist
Published: Friday, November 30, 2007
The 20-year master plan revealed by the Victoria Airport Authority projects growth of 65 per cent in passenger numbers over that span of time. Contrast that scenario with the fact that world petroleum production has plateaued and that major oil-company executives have begun to publicly acknowledge that even with high prices and ramped up demand, production will be unlikely to be able to meet that demand. Current crude oil prices are approaching $100 per barrel. It is reasonable to expect far higher prices and severe limitations in supply by 2025, the end-point of the VAA's 20-year plan. Will those 2.3 million passengers really be there or will the $20 million have been spent on a huge white elephant?
Methinks this fellow would probably agree with the other guy who said the airport was too grand. A $20 million "huge white elephant"? In the year 2025? How much will your average house in Victoria be worth in 2025?
I'm detecting an anti-transportation bias in a lot of the comments people make about possible fuel shortages and the like. One way or another there will still be automobiles, ships and airplanes. Anybody who's hoping all the highways will get returned to nature is going to be disappointed. No matter what petroleum's ultimate fate happens to be, people will still need to get around.