Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) is pleased to announce that Roshanak Sadeghi-Zadeh will join its Executive Management Team in January 2026 as Vice President, People, Culture & Belonging.
Roshanak currently serves as Director, People and Belonging with IWK Health, a senior leadership role she has held for the past four years. She brings more than 23 years of human resources leadership experience across the healthcare, municipal, and transportation sectors.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Roshanak to HIAA as head of the People Department,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO at HIAA. “Roshanak’s extensive experience in human resources, including labour relations and collective bargaining, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and employee engagement, combined with her collaborative leadership style, makes her the perfect addition to our team.”
In her new position at HIAA, Roshanak will oversee the People Department, which manages all aspects of HR, including labour and employee relations, organizational culture, recruitment, compensation and benefits, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), career development and succession planning.
“What drew me to this role is HIAA’s genuine commitment to people,” said Sadeghi-Zadeh. “I look forward to building on a strong foundation and partnering with teams across the organization to nurture a culture where everyone feels they truly belong and can grow together.”
Roshanak holds a Master of Science degree, Graduate Diploma in Human Resources Management, Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) Designation, Strategic Human Resources Management – Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), change management and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate. She will officially join HIAA on January 5, 2026.
Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) is proud to announce its new multi-year sponsorship agreement with Autism Nova Scotia, reinforcing its commitment to accessible travel and inclusive community programs.
“At Halifax Stanfield, our purpose extends beyond connecting people to places; it’s also about bringing people together and giving them opportunities to navigate the world on their own terms,” said Marie Manning, Vice President, Business Development & Chief Commercial Officer, HIAA. “Through our sponsorship of Autism Nova Scotia, we’re helping to create a more inclusive travel experience and proving that thoughtful support can change lives.”
Autism Nova Scotia is a leading organization supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Through a wide range of programs, resources, and community initiatives, they provide practical tools, guidance, and experiences that help participants engage confidently in everyday life, education, and recreation.
Through the partnership, HIAA will continue supporting the Autism Aviators program created in collaboration with Autism Nova Scotia, which helps Autistic travellers and their families familiarize themselves with the airport before flying. The new agreement also supports the annual Ben James Autism Summer Camp and creates opportunities for airport workers to learn from Autism Nova Scotia about making travel more accessible.
“Autism Nova Scotia is proud to partner with HIAA,” said Lynn Stewart-Yuill, Manager of Community Events and Giving, Autism Nova Scotia. “Their commitment demonstrates the power of community leadership in creating inclusive and accessible spaces for Autistic individuals and their families. This investment not only strengthens our programs and services across the province but also highlights the impact that can be achieved when organizations come together with a shared vision of inclusion.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to accessibility, HIAA offers a number of other programs and services designed to make travel at Halifax Stanfield more inclusive, including the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, the Aira app, Hearing Loops, service animal pet relief areas, and more. Halifax Stanfield has also held the Gold Accessibility Rating from the Rick Hansen Foundation since 2020 and was the first facility in Nova Scotia to receive a Gold rating.
HIAA’s support for Autism Nova Scotia is channelled through its Uplifted program, which invests in community organizations through funding, partnerships, and employee giving that align with the airport’s values and strategic priorities. Requests for donations, community sponsorships, in-kind gifts, and volunteer opportunities are accepted three times annually during dedicated intake periods. The next intake period will open on September 15, 2025.
Lost at the airport? There’s a bot for that. Today, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA), in partnership with Halifax-based start-up Maritime Robotics, launched two custom-built passenger experience robots at Halifax Stanfield. The project is part of HIAA’s ongoing commitment to advancing the Stanfield experience by leveraging technology that improves wayfinding and helps support a seamless journey for travellers and airport visitors.
“We are pleased to partner with a local start-up to test robotic technology at our airport,” said Tiffany Chase, Director of Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience at HIAA. “This collaboration marks an exciting step toward enhancing wayfinding and elevating the passenger experience. By embracing technology solutions like these, we are prioritizing airport efficiency and innovation, with a touch of fun in the terminal. Think WALL·E with a map — and they’re pretty adorable, too.”
The custom-built robots, which are being pilot-tested at the airport over the next several months, are equipped with voice recognition and touch screen interfaces. Users can access information on flights, weather, airport amenities, and more. When requested, the robots will physically guide users to select locations within a programmed perimeter. For destinations outside of that range, a static wayfinding map is available.
“Bringing this kind of innovation to our local airport is especially meaningful,” said Huijing He, Director, Maritime Robotics. “It’s not just about introducing new technology — it’s about enhancing the travel experience for our community and taking a significant step toward the future of travel, powered by the people who make it possible.”
Both robots are positioned pre-security in the Centre Court and Arrivals areas of the terminal building, complementing traveller resources already provided by airport employees and volunteers. The robots offer an additional layer of support for people navigating the terminal, particularly during peak times when in-person assistance may be limited.
Travellers and visitors are encouraged to try out the robots the next time they visit the airport, and experience firsthand what they have to offer.
About Halifax Stanfield Halifax Stanfield is Atlantic Canada’s principal full-service airport, providing passengers and cargo clients with direct access to markets across Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean Basin, Europe, and Asia. Halifax Stanfield offers Canada Customs services on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week basis and is the only airport in Atlantic Canada with U.S. preclearance and international-to-domestic processing facilities. The airport is a significant economic generator, contributing $4.2 billion annually to the provincial economy. In 2024, Halifax Stanfield served 4 million passengers and processed 26,000 metric tonnes of cargo. A recognized innovator in the global airport industry, Halifax Stanfield was the first airport in North America to offer a self-service baggage drop system for all passengers and is consistently ranked among the best airports in the world.
About Maritime Robotics Maritime Robotics is a robotics service provider, established 2018, specializing in robotic software solutions for Retail, Medical, Expo & Conferences, and more. They invest in on-going R&D with Canada’s top research institution, Dalhousie University in areas of computer vision, 3D imaging and positioning, depth sensors, and other exciting advances in robotics.
A new era of transatlantic travel begins today at Halifax Stanfield with the launch of Edelweiss Air’s non-stop service to Zurich, Switzerland. Both the airline and the destination are exciting firsts for Halifax Stanfield, marking the airport’s newest international airline partner and the debut of Zurich as a destination on the airport’s route map.
“We’re thrilled to officially launch Edelweiss’ non-stop service between Halifax and Zurich,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA). “Today is the start of an exciting connection between our regions, providing more travel options for Atlantic Canadians and making it easier than ever for European travellers to experience Nova Scotia. We’re proud to partner with Edelweiss and look forward to the many benefits this connection will bring to our communities and travellers.”
Halifax is one of just three Canadian cities with Edelweiss service. The twice-weekly route will be operated on Airbus A340-300 aircraft, seating 314 passengers in business, economy max, and economy classes, with a flight time of approximately seven hours.
“This route ideally complements our popular flights to Calgary and Vancouver in western Canada,” explained Patrick Heymann, Chief Commercial Officer of Edelweiss. “With this non-stop flight, we are bringing Switzerland and Europe even closer to Canada’s beautiful and breathtaking nature. At the same time, travellers from Atlantic Canada can now discover Switzerland more easily or take advantage of the excellent hub in Zurich to connect to almost anywhere in Europe and beyond.”
Edelweiss, a Swiss leisure airline and sister company to Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), is a welcome new partner at Halifax Stanfield. Operating out of Zurich Airport, Edelweiss connects Switzerland to premier holiday destinations worldwide. The airline is part of the Lufthansa Group and known for its commitment to quality and comfort, reflected in both its operations and its namesake, the iconic Edelweiss flower of the Swiss Alps.
Through Edelweiss’ affiliation with SWISS and the wider Lufthansa Group, passengers benefit from access to an extensive global network and seamless connections via code-sharing agreements with Star Alliance partners, including Air Canada. Passengers travelling to Zurich can easily connect to any one of the Group’s network carriers – Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, and Brussels Airlines – giving passengers access to the world. This strengthens Zurich’s role as a premier hub for travel throughout Europe and beyond.
“Routes like Edelweiss’ new one between Zurich and Halifax are an important way of growing tourism and opening our economy to new markets,” said Ministerial Assistant John A. MacDonald on behalf of Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Growth and Development, Province of Nova Scotia. “We look forward to welcoming more visitors to our incredible province, building connections between Switzerland and Nova Scotia and creating new opportunities for Nova Scotia businesses.”
“This is a big moment for Halifax! Edelweiss’ new direct flight to Zurich opens up exciting new possibilities for tourism, business, and global connection,” said Andy Fillmore, Mayor, Halifax Regional Municipality. “It means more visitors discovering our vibrant city and more opportunities for our residents and local businesses to reach new markets. We’re thrilled to welcome Edelweiss to Halifax and can’t wait to see where this new connection takes us.”
Edelweiss flights from Halifax will be operated in cooperation with SWISS and are available for booking through swiss.com, lufthansa.com, or any travel agency. For more information on Edelweiss, please visit flyedelweiss.com.
With school out and suitcases packed, Halifax Stanfield is ready to welcome an influx of travellers and is equipping them with tips to ensure a seamless journey. It has also added new services designed to improve the passenger experience, including the completion of a project to expand the Domestic/International security screening area, in collaboration with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).
“As we enter the peak summer season, we are pleased to work closely with our partners at CATSA to introduce an expanded security screening facility, including an additional line that will host one of CATSA’s new CT X-ray systems,” said Dean Bouchard, Vice President, Airport Planning & Development, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA). “The ongoing implementation of this new technology at all five lines supports our ongoing commitment and investment in innovation, efficiency, and enhancing the passenger experience.”
The new CT technology is now operational at a new line installed at Domestic/International security screening, increasing the total number of lines from four to five. Additionally, this marks the beginning of a phased implementation of CT technology across all the Domestic/International screening lines at Halifax Stanfield.
The new technology enables passengers to leave permitted liquids (100 mL or less), aerosols, gels, medical devices, and large electronics such as laptops inside their carry-on bags to help expedite the screening process.
“CATSA is well prepared to welcome millions of passengers through its security screening checkpoints this summer. Our teams are focused on delivering the most secure aviation security screening service and the best passenger experience. We are proud of our partnership with Halifax Stanfield International Airport as we work together to bring CT X-ray to all screening lines. We wish everyone safe travels this summer,” said Neil Parry, Acting President and CEO, CATSA.
Given the increased efficiency that will accompany these technology upgrades, YHZ Express, HIAA’s reservation-based service for security screening, will be discontinued effective June 30, 2025.
Top Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
With the peak summer travel season underway, HIAA encourages travellers to take advantage of various tools and services to simplify their airport experience:
Use the Standby Lot: This free waiting area is ideal for drivers coming to the airport to pick up arriving passengers. Drivers can wait in the Standby Lot until their passengers have collected their bags and are ready to be picked up at the terminal, reducing congestion on the Arrivals curb.
Try Air Canada’s Digital ID: Air Canada passengers on select flights can now use facial recognition technology to streamline the boarding process. Visit Air Canada’s website or download the Air Canada app to learn more.
Prepare for Security: Packing smart can help reduce delays at security screening. Follow CATSA’s travel tips and visit catsa.gc.ca for a list of permitted and prohibited items.
Review Parking Options: Planning your parking prior to leaving for the airport will ease your mind upon arrival. Learn about available parking options in advance to help secure your preferred spot.
Arrive Early: It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international departure. Give yourself extra time to enjoy the airport’s dining and shopping options, with a focus on local products and flavours.
Use CBSA’s Advance Declaration and U.S. CBP’s Mobile Passport Control: If you’re arriving internationally, submit your advance declaration via the Canada Border Services Agency ArriveCAN app before landing to save time. If you are departing for the U.S. from Halifax Stanfield’s preclearance facility, leverage the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Mobile Passport Control app to simplify entry into the U.S.
Halifax Stanfield is Atlantic Canada’s principal full-service airport, providing passengers and cargo clients with direct access to markets across Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean Basin, Europe, and Asia. Halifax Stanfield offers Canada Customs services on a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week basis and is the only airport in Atlantic Canada with U.S. preclearance and International to Domestic processing facilities. The airport is a significant economic generator, contributing $4.2 billion annually to the provincial economy. In 2024, Halifax Stanfield served 4 million passengers and processed 26,000 metric tonnes of cargo. A recognized innovator in the global airport industry, Halifax Stanfield was the first airport in North America to offer a self-service baggage drop system for all passengers and is consistently ranked among the best airports in the world.
OTTAWA, ON, June 23, 2025 /CNW/ – Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) becomes the first airport in Atlantic Canada to introduce the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s (CATSA’s) CT X-ray technology. CATSA added a new screening line equipped with this technology at the Domestic/International checkpoint. This is the first step in bringing this technology to all screening lines at YHZ. Passengers travelling through Halifax will now enjoy an elevated security screening experience where they will no longer need to remove bags with permitted liquids, aerosols and gels (100 ml or less), medical devices, or large electronics—including laptops—from their carry-on bags.
The installation of this new technology at Halifax Stanfield is part of CATSA’s national deployment program, which aims to introduce CT X-ray systems to screening lines at several airports over a multi-year period.
CATSA looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Halifax Stanfield throughout the deployment of CT technology on all screening lines and is committed to enhancing the passenger experience while maintaining the highest standards of security for travellers at Canada’s designated airports.
Quote
“As we enter the peak summer season, we are pleased to work closely with our partners at CATSA to introduce an expanded security screening facility, including an additional line that will host one of CATSA’s new CT X-ray systems. The implementation of this new technology will help streamline the security process and enhance the passenger experience.”
– Dean Bouchard, Vice President, Airport Planning & Development, Halifax International Airport Authority
Established on April 1, 2002, CATSA is a Crown corporation fully funded by parliamentary appropriations and is accountable to Parliament through the Minister of Transport Canada.
A deployment of this magnitude underscores CATSA’s commitment to driving innovation and elevating passengers’ experience in aviation security nationwide. CATSA is dedicated to working with its screening contractors and air travel partners to deliver service excellence through effective and efficient security screening.
CT is state-of-the-art technology that utilizes advanced three-dimensional rotatable images enhancing screening officers’ ability to detect explosives and other threat items. For air travellers, it means that permitted liquids, aerosols and gels (100 mL or less each), medical devices and large electronics can remain in their carry-on baggage when being screened.
SOURCE Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA)
Inaugural flights coincide with enhanced YHM terminal
HAMILTON / June 3, 2025 – Porter Airlines is celebrating new coast-to-coast air service, with inaugural flights connecting Hamilton to Halifax and Vancouver taking off today. Both routes operate with daily nonstop roundtrip service.
Flights are operated with Porter’s 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which means there are no middle seats on any flight. Porter’s distinct approach to economy air travel features free, fast WiFi, and complimentary beer, wine, and premium Canadian snacks for everyone.
Choosing a PorterReserve fare is an option for travellers looking for an all-inclusive experience. Fresh, healthy meals, enhanced legroom at the front of the aircraft, dedicated check-in and security, and two checked bags, are just some of the perks available. The same options are offered in PorterClassic seats for passengers who prefer to individually select what matters most to them.
Flight schedules for each route are as follows:
Route
Departure
Arrival
Start date
Frequency
Hamilton (YHM) to Halifax (YHZ)
8:55 p.m. 8:15 a.m
12:21 a.m. (+1) 11:40 a.m.
June 3 June 29*
Daily
Halifax (YHZ) to Hamilton (YHM)
6:00 a.m. 12:35 p.m.
7:25 a.m. 2:00 p.m.
June 3 June 28*
Daily
Hamilton (YHM) to Vancouver (YVR)
8:20 a.m. 7:05 a.m.
10:30 a.m 9:15 a.m.
June 3 June 28
Up to 2x daily starting June 28
Vancouver (YVR) to Hamilton (YHM)
12:15 p.m. 9:00 a.m.
7:59 p.m. 4:44 p.m.
June 3 June 29
Up to 2x daily starting June 28
All times local
*New flight times effective as of this date
The Hamilton region, situated between Toronto and Niagara Falls, is growing in popularity with sports fans, concert goers and foodies alike. Travellers can take in the 100+ waterfalls along picturesque hiking trails and easily connect to Ontario’s renowned wineries. Known as the gateway to Niagara Falls, Hamilton is the perfect getaway for couples, families and friends. For business travellers, daily direct flights to and from the region make it easier and more convenient than ever to attend meetings, conferences and events. Whether it’s a quick trip or a longer stay, Porter’s growing network ensures a seamless journey.
The start of service aligns with the completion of terminal enhancements at John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. From curb to gate, passengers will enjoy an enhanced guest experience with expanded curb canopies, a refresh of terminal interiors from check-in counters to gate seating, new digital signage, lighting upgrades, and architectural and design finishes that create a local sense of place.
Daily flights connecting Hamilton with Calgary (YYC), and Edmonton (YEG) begin June 11.
Porter is the only airline with comprehensive schedules at all three major airports in the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area. The downtown convenience of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, combined with the North American reach of Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Hamilton International’s local appeal gives travellers throughout the Golden Horseshoe a range of choices to meet their travel needs.
Flights are available for booking at www.flyporter.com and with travel agents.
Quotes
“Our emphasis on providing genuine service for everyone who travels with us is an important distinction for Hamiltonians that for too long haven’t received the elevated experience they deserve. We believe the community will appreciate the ability to fly closer to home and we see significant opportunities to expand our network across North America from YHM. The new terminal renovations are impressive and they will have a great impact on the overall travel experience.”
– Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines
“We are delighted to welcome Porter to Hamilton International. The enhancements we’ve made to the passenger terminal significantly elevate the travel journey for our guests. Porter’s elevated economy service and on-board experience are a perfect fit for the stress-free, convenient airport experience we offer Hamiltonians and travelers coming to enjoy the best of our region.”
– Peter Tong, CEO, TradePort and Vantage Group
“We’re pleased to welcome Porter Airlines’ new non-stop service between Halifax and Hamilton. This route enhances connectivity between Atlantic Canada and southern Ontario, offering travellers greater convenience and flexibility. We’re proud to support Porter’s continued growth in our region and the opportunities this new service brings for both leisure and business travel.”
– Marie Manning, vice president business development & chief commercial officer, Halifax International Airport Authority
“We are excited to welcome Porter Airlines’ new daily, non-stop service between Hamilton and Vancouver, just in time for the summer travel season. Both cities offer incredible opportunities to explore nature, with Vancouver’s beaches and mountains and the more than 100 waterfalls within the Niagara Escarpment. This new service provides another important access point between Central Canada and the West Coast, giving our travellers even more choice and connection.”
– Russ Atkinson, director, air service development, Vancouver International Airport
Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com
Prepare to cycle and canal-hop like a local. Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) is delighted to celebrate the launch of WestJet’s new non-stop service between Halifax Stanfield and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands. The first flight departs today, May 29, marking the beginning of a six-times-weekly seasonal route that will operate through October 26.
With its dynamic cultural scene, rich history, and strategic location, Amsterdam is set to become a popular destination on Halifax Stanfield’s route map. Whether travelling for business, leisure, or to visit friends and family, passengers can now enjoy convenient access to one of Europe’s most vibrant and connected cities.
Expanded air access is crucial for growing the visitor economy and supporting local businesses and communities. These flights promote increased inbound tourism, inviting European visitors to Nova Scotia and the wider Atlantic region. With breathtaking coastlines, world-renowned seafood, and warm hospitality, the Atlantic region provides a unique experience for international guests.
The introduction of this new service is part of WestJet’s most extensive transatlantic schedule from Halifax Stanfield to date, providing non-stop service to six European cities during the 2025 summer season. In addition to Amsterdam, WestJet will also operate flights to:
Barcelona, Spain – 4x weekly from June 27 to September 29
Dublin, Ireland – 4x weekly from May 20 to October 12
Edinburgh, Scotland – 3x weekly from May 15 to October 13
London Gatwick, UK – 3x weekly from April 28 to October 25
Paris, France – 4x weekly from May 16 to October 24
As travellers on both sides of the Atlantic look ahead to summer adventures, Halifax Stanfield is ready to connect them with more destinations than ever before.
Quotes:
“This new connection to Amsterdam enhances our international reach, supports business and tourism growth, and offers Atlantic Canadians greater opportunities to explore the world. As we expand our European network with a record number of seats available this year, we’re proud to strengthen Halifax Stanfield’s position as a key Canadian gateway. Thank you to WestJet for its investment in our region and commitment to improving connectivity for our communities.”
– Joyce Carter, President & CEO, HIAA
“We are thrilled to be in Halifax today, celebrating the inaugural flight between Halifax Stanfield and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Halifax is a vital part of our network, and we’re dedicated to serving this community and strengthening our partnerships across the region. WestJet’s summer schedule underscores that commitment, offering more direct access to Europe than ever before, reinforcing our promise to unlocking convenient and affordable transatlantic connectivity for guests on both sides of the Atlantic.”
– Christina Iversen, Head of External Affairs, WestJet
“This new direct flight is an exciting opportunity for both Nova Scotia and Amsterdam. It links our vibrant province directly to one of Europe’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities, opening the door to new possibilities for tourism, business and cultural exchange.”
– Hon. David Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
“Halifax is proud to be a gateway to the world, and WestJet’s new direct service to Amsterdam is a welcome addition to our growing global connections. This route strengthens our ties with Europe, creates new opportunities for tourism and trade, and invites more visitors to experience the incredible energy and hospitality of our region. Congratulations to WestJet and Halifax Stanfield on another milestone that helps our city and province thrive on the international stage.”
– Andy Fillmore, Mayor of Halifax
“We are delighted to see WestJet’s continued interest and support of routes from Atlantic Canada and specifically this new direct route into Amsterdam. We know there is a strong and growing demand from Atlantic Canadians to reach Europe and beyond, and a reciprocal and growing interest in travel into Atlantic Canada.”
– Ross Jefferson, President & CEO, Discover Halifax
HALIFAX, NS, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced an expansion of its codeshare partnerships with Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM), offering guests connecting through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Paris Charles de Gaulle enhanced access a broader network of European destinations all with the ease of a single booking.
“As part of our commitment to flying Canadians where they want to go, these expanded partnerships provide WestJet guests with more options to explore 59 sought-after European destinations this summer,” said Jared Mikoch-Gerke, WestJet Director of Airport Affairs and Alliances. “With WestJet’s recent transatlantic network expansions, guests travelling from across the country will benefit from more choice and convenience when travelling through Paris and Amsterdam. For guests originating in, or connecting through Atlantic Canada in particular, these enhancements are a gamechanger – offering guests travelling from or through Halifax and St. John’s more destinations, fewer layovers and convenient access to Europe.”
Guests travelling on WestJet codeshare flights with Air France and KLM will enjoy the convenience of booking their entire journey on one ticket, with a seamless single connection at CDG or AMS, baggage transfers and earning WestJet Rewards throughout their journey.
WestJet and KLM open the door for more Europe from Atlantic Canada
Guests flying WestJet’s new route from Halifax to Amsterdam can connect beyond AMS to 14 destinations throughout KLM’s European network including multiple cities in Italy, Portugal and France.
Country
City
Airport Code
Belgium
Brussels, BE
BRU
Czechia
Prague, CZ
PRG
Finland
Helsinki, FI
HEL
France
Bordeaux, FR
BOD
Marseille, FR
MRS
Nice, FR
NCE
Paris-De Gaulle, FR
CDG
Rennes, FR
RNS
Toulouse, FR
TLS
Italy
Bologna, IT
BLQ
Florence, IT
FLR
Milan-Linate, IT
LIN
Portugal
Lisbon, PT
LIS
Porto, PT
OPO
Additional Air France codeshare destinations deliver on choice for East and West
WestJet guests departing from Calgary, Halifax and St. John’s can now access four additional European destinations via CDG. With today’s enhancements, guests have access to more than 50 destinations through Air France’s massive network in Europe through their global hub in Paris.
Country
City
Airport Code
Romania
Bucharest, RO
OTP
Hungary
Budapest, HU
BUD
Czechia
Prague, CZ
PRG
Italy
Bologna, IT
BLQ
About WestJet WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.
As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians.
Today at its annual public meeting, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) celebrated its incredible growth in 2024 and recognized its positive economic impact on Atlantic Canada and beyond.
“In 2024, our team wholeheartedly embraced our vision – people and partners creating Canada’s best gateway airport – by driving initiatives that strengthen our commitment to excellence, and building for the future,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO, HIAA. “We were thrilled to welcome new and returning non-stop air services, launch new programs and services, and make significant progress on all of our strategic priorities.”
Total revenue for HIAA was up 10.5 per cent from 2023, with growth reported in all travel sectors and revenue categories. HIAA reached a new record of service to international destinations, driving both aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue. In tandem with strong passenger levels, bottom-line performance in 2024 was driven by strong revenues dedicated to funding the airport infrastructure investments necessary to meet rising activity levels and increasing air carrier connectivity.
Revenue growth continued to outperform expense growth, which was up $7.7 million, primarily driven by increased personnel-related costs, materials, services and supplies, and ground lease rent paid to the federal government. These numbers reflect better-than-projected revenue and expense forecasts, leading to a net income of $23 million, an increase of $7 million from 2023.
“Our financial achievements in 2024 have set HIAA up for a period of sustained success,” said Paul Brigley, Vice President, Finance & CFO, HIAA. “With a strong performance propelling us forward, our airport is ready to make the strategic investments needed to expand our services, drive sustainability, renew infrastructure and deliver a world-class experience to even more passengers in the coming years.”
The growth HIAA experienced is positively reflected in its economic impact for the province, driving $4.2 billion in annual economic impact to Nova Scotia in 2023, including $1.4 billion in tourism spending. At a time of economic instability, HIAA has been proud to unlock new opportunities for regional businesses, connecting them with new markets all over the world and strengthening Halifax Stanfield’s position as a key Canadian gateway.
HIAA continued to focus capital investments on strategic priorities and maintenance of safe and efficient airport operations. In 2024, capital expenditures totalled $34.6 million, a 15% increase from the previous year. These projects align with our commitment to safety, accessibility, innovation, and the continued enhancement of the Halifax Stanfield experience.
“In 2024, HIAA built strong relationships with the communities we serve, invested in accessibility, reduced emissions, and laid the physical and technological foundations that will allow us to take off to greater heights,” said Carter. “I’m incredibly grateful to the dedicated employees, volunteers, airline and community partners, and everyone who has contributed to our success. As we look ahead to 2025 and celebrate 25 years of HIAA, I am confident the strong foundation we have built will allow us to take off to even greater heights.”
Click here to download HIAA’s 2024 Annual Report, Taking Off, and read more about the organization’s accomplishments and performance.
HIAA’s2024 Highlights
Welcomed 3,979,785 passengers – an 11.2 per cent increase compared to 2023.
Introduced three new accessibility programs: Hearing Loops, The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and the Aira App, in addition to other infrastructure enhancements to improve accessibility, earning Halifax Stanfield the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification Gold rating.
Offered up to 30 weekly non-stop flights to Europe during the summer, including: Air Canada – London Heathrow; Air Saint-Pierre – Saint Pierre Miquelon; Condor and Discover Airlines Halifax – Frankfurt. Icelandair – Reykjavik and WestJet – Dublin, London Gatwick, and Edinburgh.
Welcomed new airlines BermudAir (Kingston, Bermuda) and Pascan Aviation (Saint John, NB and Sydney, NS).
Made significant progress on the construction of a new International Connections Facility, which is set to open in 2025.
Processed 26,198 metric tonnes of cargo.
Developed a comprehensive waste management strategy, resulting in 277 tonnes of terminal building waste diverted from landfills.
Reduced scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 33 per cent – meeting its goals two years ahead of schedule.
Completed an Airfield Restoration Program, including a new domestic aircraft stand and gate modifications to accommodate larger aircraft, offering flexibility for passengers, airlines and cargo carriers.
Completed construction on a new Standby Lot, offering a free waiting area for drivers coming to the airport to pick up arriving passengers.
Renewed terminal and groundside infrastructure, including a Jet Bridge Replacement project.
Introduced streamlined technology onboarding processes to accommodate the growing number of airlines, enabling new routes to launch as efficiently as possible.
