HONG KONG—With billions in economic projects fueling population and tourism growth, Atlantic Canada’s airports say the region is ready for a new wave of direct international and U.S. routes, building on strengthened domestic links to major Canadian hubs.
Atlantic Canada Airports Association (ACAA), which represents 14 airports handling 99% of the region’s passenger and cargo traffic, highlights the momentum is being driven by strong economic growth and inward investment.
The investments span sectors from renewable energy and shipbuilding to aerospace, defense and technology. Projects include hydro initiatives in Labrador, tidal energy in New Brunswick, offshore wind development in Nova Scotia and major shipbuilding programs across the provinces. The NATO innovation accelerator DIANA has also chosen Atlantic Canada for offices.
“Canada’s economy is diversifying, with growth in sectors that demand sophisticated air logistics,” ACAA Executive Director Nadia MacDonald tells Routes. “From world-class seafood and fresh produce to high-tech components for aerospace and defense, the movement of high-value, time-sensitive goods is driving a new kind of supply chain.”
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MacDonald says that airports in the region are therefore “essential links” in a national network. “They provide efficient and reliable channels that complement Canada's larger trade ambitions, ensuring that products can move seamlessly from source to global markets,” she adds. “This growth isn't just about expanding a regional economy, it's about strengthening Canada's overall position in global trade.”
MacDonald says that demographics are also shifting. New professionals, students and entrepreneurs are moving to the region, attracted by its expanding industries and lifestyle. That population growth is creating fresh demand for domestic, transborder and long-haul connectivity.
To boost air connectivity in the region, the Council of Atlantic Premiers in August announced new provincial funding to support service recovery and expansion. The initiative is aimed at smaller airports still struggling to restore routes lost during the pandemic.
“The funding comes at a pivotal time,” MacDonald says. “It will help level the playing field and ensure more equitable access to air service throughout Atlantic Canada.”
A Canadian Airports Council study underscores the economic impact of such routes: Each new connection can generate more than 125 full-time jobs and C$40 million ($29 million) in annual output.
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