The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), part of Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), which represents over 100 airports across Canada, is urging the Canadian government to boost connectivity at regional airports. CAC is advocating for increased investments in smaller airports and the establishment of an Essential Air Service (EAS) program similar to that in the U.S. The U.S. EAS program provides federal subsidies to flights that would otherwise be unprofitable, ensuring that smaller airports maintain vital connectivity.
Currently, flight frequencies at Canadian regional airports are operating at just 64% of 2014 levels and 83% of 2019 levels. While seat capacity at these airports is at 94% of 2014 levels, the frequency of flights has decreased, with fewer airlines operating with larger aircraft. A report from CAC emphasized, “With fewer flights and a decreasing number of airlines serving these routes, passengers face significant limitations in flexibility and choice.” This reduction in connectivity has had a direct impact on economic activity, particularly in communities that rely on regional airports for essential travel.
The situation in provinces like Alberta and Manitoba is even more concerning. Alberta has seen a drop of 39% in flight frequencies and 43% in seat capacity compared to 2014, while Manitoba’s reduction is more severe, with just 13% of its flight frequencies and 45% of its seats still in operation. The CAC highlights that over the last three decades, the U.S. has invested 8.5 times more per capita in airport infrastructure than Canada. Canada’s approach has mainly been guided by market forces, unlike other countries that use a combination of infrastructure funding, direct airline support, and passenger subsidies.
Pune Airport (PNQ) in India has made significant changes, adding 15 additional daily slots during peak hours, according to Murlidhar Mohol, India’s Civil Aviation Minister. The total daily allowed movements at PNQ have increased to 235 from the previous 220. This development is set to improve airport capacity, especially during the busy travel periods.
In Malta, Malta International Airport (MLA) has reported a total capital expenditure of €68.4 million ($77.6 million) in 2024, investing in major upgrades, including improvements to the arrivals hall, baggage claim, and security screening. The airport also expanded its aircraft parking stands, adding four new stands in May. This infrastructure enhancement aims to accommodate mixed-fleet operations during the summer months better, as the airport anticipates growing passenger numbers. In 2024, the airport saw a 15% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic, reaching a total of 8.96 million passengers, while net profits grew by 15% to €46.3 million.
In Ireland, the government has allocated €7.8 million ($8.9 million) to fund infrastructure projects at three regional airports: Donegal (CFN), Kerry (KIR), and Knock (NOC). The largest share of the funding will go to NOC, receiving €5.7 million. These investments are aimed at enhancing safety, security, and sustainability at these airports, with projects including solar photovoltaic (PV) installations and carbon reduction initiatives.
At Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Mike Wilson has been promoted to director of integrated operations. Wilson, who previously served as the assistant director for field maintenance, will oversee operations, emergency management, safety, and training programs, ensuring that MSP’s activities remain compliant with FAA regulations.
London Gatwick Airport has appointed Pierre-Hugues Schmit as its new CEO, succeeding Stewart Wingate, who will take on a new role overseeing UK airports for Vinci Airports. Schmit, who is currently the chief commercial officer at Vinci Airports, will officially assume his new role in September 2025.
In Peru, Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima has opened its new $2.4 billion terminal, which is three times larger than the previous one. This major infrastructure upgrade positions Lima as a key air hub for South America, with the facility designed to handle up to 40 million passengers annually. The new terminal is expected to create around 121,000 jobs, benefiting nearby communities and promoting economic growth and tourism recovery in the country.
In the U.S., Avports, an airport investor and operator, has appointed Marc Ricks as its new CEO. Ricks brings over 20 years of experience in infrastructure, real estate, and public-private partnerships. He succeeds Jorge Roberts, who led the company for six years. According to Teresa Mattamouros, an Avports board member, “Marc is uniquely equipped to lead Avports into its next phase of growth.”
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