As discussions of privatising Canadian airports gain momentum, Deborah Flint, the CEO of Toronto Pearson International Airport, has expressed strong support for the existing public ownership model. While Flint acknowledges the potential for private-sector enhancements, she insists that the current framework has effectively managed the nation’s busiest airport through significant growth and expansion over the years.
Public Ownership Proving Its Worth
In an exclusive interview, Flint outlined the advantages of the current model, which allows the federal government to retain ownership while not-for-profit authorities oversee operations. Highlighting the significant increase in passenger numbers—nearly doubling from 24.7 million in 2003 to 47.3 million last year—Flint argued that the model has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of a growing air travel hub.
“Over the last 30 years, the growth has been remarkable,” Flint remarked, emphasising the airport’s resilience and adaptability. In 2025 alone, Pearson handled an average of over 950 flights daily, connecting travellers to more than 200 international destinations, a considerable rise from approximately 165 in 2012.
Government’s Shift in Focus
However, the federal government’s spring economic update has sparked conversations about privatisation, indicating an interest in unlocking the full value of airports for long-term growth. This includes a potential shift towards alternative ownership models. According to the Canadian Airports Council, these airports pay Ottawa a substantial annual rent of $525 million.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has echoed this sentiment, stating, “We will look at options for the airports so they better serve Canadians, and so that the capital tied up in those airports can be redeployed potentially in other ventures that will grow our economy.” This stance suggests a willingness to explore new avenues for airport management, raising concerns within the airline industry about the implications of privatisation.
Industry Concerns Over Privatisation
The prospect of privatising Canada’s airports has historically elicited criticism from airlines, which fear that private ownership could lead to increased landing and terminal fees. Such costs would inevitably be passed on to travellers, burdening consumers while satisfying shareholder demands in a near-monopoly market.
In 2017, Massimo Bergamini, the former CEO of the National Airlines Council of Canada, unequivocally denounced the idea of privatisation. He stated it offered “no demonstrable benefits for travellers, communities, or Canada’s airlines.” As discussions intensify, the aviation sector remains cautious, wary of the potential fallout from a shift in ownership structure.
Major Upgrades on the Horizon
Despite the uncertainty surrounding ownership, Pearson Airport is set to embark on an ambitious multibillion-dollar upgrade aimed at accommodating an anticipated increase in passenger volume. The airport plans to enhance its capacity to handle 65 million travellers annually by the early 2030s.
The initial $3 billion investment will focus on various improvements, including an expanded airfield, upgraded lighting systems, and a comprehensive rebuild of the airport’s extensive baggage handling system, which spans 30 kilometres. Flint views these renovations as essential to fostering global trade and enhancing passenger satisfaction, stating, “The demand is there today. Airports are so important to the country and its strategy of being more connected to new trade partnerships.”
This revitalisation comes on the heels of the travel chaos that plagued Canadian airports in 2022, when a surge in demand post-COVID-19 led to significant operational challenges, including long queues and lost baggage.
Why it Matters
The debate surrounding the ownership model of Canadian airports is not merely a financial discussion; it touches on the broader implications for air travel accessibility, economic growth, and the quality of service provided to passengers. As Pearson Airport embarks on its ambitious upgrade plans, the outcome of these privatisation discussions could shape the future of air travel in Canada. The decisions made today will resonate for years to come, influencing everything from operational efficiency to the passenger experience. In an era where connectivity is paramount, the stakes could not be higher.
