Following an initial spring thaw in March, the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) continues to see increased concerns from communities surrounding the airport regarding odours related to stormwater runoff ponds at the Calgary International Airport.
The pungent, rotten egg-like smell is a known issue in the area, primarily produced by glycol used to de-ice planes, which collects in stormwater ponds. When these ponds thaw in the spring, it releases a sulphur-like odour, which can smell like natural gas or propane. The odour is not known to be hazardous.
“We’re sometimes seeing over 20 calls a day, over 60 in the last month related to airport odour concerns. Earlier this week, on April 6, one crew attended 15 calls in a single shift,” says Fire Chief Steve Dongworth. “This can drain fire service resources in those areas, causing concern about our ability to provide consistent response times for other calls.”
Residents living near the Calgary International Airport are encouraged to consider the nearby source of outdoor odours before calling 911.
CFD continues to advise residents to call 911 if they are concerned about natural gas or propane leaks, particularly if they are indoors or at a commercial business.
It is expected that Calgary International Airport will complete infrastructure improvements by 2027 that will mitigate persistent seasonal odours that have been reported by residents in recent years. Please contact the Calgary Airport Authority for more information on mitigation and YYC operations.
Calgarians are reminded to never store propane gas indoors. Find out more about propane storage and usage. As well, always access Click Before You Dig in order to avoid damaging underground gas lines and other utilities.
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