OTTAWA, ON, June 25, 2026 /CNW/ – Today, airports from coast to coast will come together to celebrate the third annual Airport Workers Day, a national event recognizing the dedication, professionalism, and contributions of the people who keep Canada’s aviation system operating safely, efficiently, and reliably every day.
From customer service representatives and environmental specialists to security personnel and operations leaders, Airport Workers Day honours the more than 224,000 Canadians whose work keeps communities connected, supports trade and tourism, and powers economic growth across the country.
As part of this year’s celebration, the Canadian Airports Council (CAC) is proud to recognize nine outstanding individuals through the 2026 National Airport Workers Day Awards, highlighting excellence, innovation, leadership, and service throughout Canada’s airport ecosystem.
2026 National Airport Workers Day Award Recipients:
Airport Innovator: Kaitlin LaBelle, Airside Operations — Edmonton International Airport
Environmental Steward: Andy Whitman, Environmental and Technical Data Officer — YQR Regina International Airport
Outstanding Contribution to Safety and Security: Rick Stacey, Airport Security Officer — St. John’s International Airport
Excellence in Efficiency Optimization: Thitola Thach, Manager, Learning and Development — Ottawa International Airport
Industry Champion: Susan Smith, Senior Lead — Sydney Airport
Operational Excellence: Francis Côté, Superviseur des opérations — Montréal–Trudeau International Airport
Rising Star: Jessica Chan, Environmental Technician — Vancouver International Airport
Outstanding Service: Wareesha Mashhood, Customer Service Agent — Toronto Pearson International Airport
“Airport Workers Day is an opportunity to recognize the people who make Canadian aviation possible,” said Monette Pasher, President of the Canadian Airports Council. “Whether they are supporting passengers, maintaining critical infrastructure, advancing sustainability initiatives, protecting airport operations, or helping goods reach global markets, airport workers are the foundation of our aviation system. We are proud to celebrate these award recipients and the thousands of dedicated professionals they represent.”
Canada’s airports are more than transportation hubs, they’re essential economic gateways that connect Canadians to opportunity. Airports facilitate domestic and international travel, support supply chains and trade, enable tourism growth, and serve as critical infrastructure for communities of all sizes.
The recipients of the 2026 National Airport Workers Day Awards represent the extraordinary talent, commitment, and diversity found throughout Canada’s aviation workforce. Their achievements demonstrate the innovation, leadership, and dedication required to support one of the country’s most important sectors.
Throughout the day, airports across Canada will host employee appreciation events and recognition activities to celebrate the individuals and teams who work around the clock to keep passengers, cargo, and communities moving.
From operations specialists and environmental professionals to customer service agents, security teams, technicians, and managers, Airport Workers Day shines a spotlight on the people behind every safe departure, successful arrival, and seamless travel experience.
Join the celebration and share your appreciation using #AirportWorkersDay2026.
About the Canadian Airports Council
The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), a division of Airports Council International-North America, is the voice for Canada’s airports community. Its 60 members represent more than 100 airports, including all of the privately-operated National Airports System (NAS) airports and many municipal airports across Canada.
Canada’s airports support 435,800 jobs, providing $32.9 billion in annual wages, generating $49.6 billion in GDP and producing $123.5 billion of annual economic output.
OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 4, 2025 /CNW/ – The Canadian Airports Council (CAC) welcomes today’s federal budget and its focus on trade diversification, infrastructure, and economic growth. Canada’s airports are critical national assets that connect people and goods, supporting trade, tourism, and regional development across the country.
“Airports are at the heart of Canada’s growth story,” said Monette Pasher, President of the Canadian Airports Council. “We are pleased to see the federal government’s recognition of airports’ role in trade diversification and economic resilience. Investments in trade and infrastructure will help strengthen our competitiveness and create opportunities across every region of the country.” 5 billion through the Trade Diversification Corridors Fund (NTCF), which will enable airports to strengthen new trade flows and economic growth.
In the early 1990s, Canada’s airports were privatized to local control, divested from direct federal operation and placed under the management of local airport authorities as non-share capital corporations. This model has allowed airports to operate as a business and reinvest billions into infrastructure, positioning them as key trade and transportation hubs. CAC is interested to learn more on government’s intent to consider options for airport privatization. “There are many ways to work with pension funds and equity partners, and any options government considers must have affordability for Canadians as the top priority,” noted Pasher.
While travel demand has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels at major hubs, many regional and northern airports have not fully recovered, leaving communities and businesses vulnerable to reduced air service. These airports are vital for regional connectivity, medical access, and safe transportation in remote regions, reinforcing Canada’s presence and sovereignty in the North.
CAC applauds the federal government’s increased support of $55 million for the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), the only dedicated federal funding source for essential infrastructure at small and regional airports. With ACAP funding largely unchanged for 25 years, this boost is critical to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term sustainability at regional airports.
The government’s increased funding to advance technology, automation, and modernize processes under Transport Canada will improve the travel experience, enhance efficiency, and support growing passenger volumes. Canada’s airports look forward to working with government and industry partners to implement.
Airports have been working with government to move forward on a 50-year ground lease extension, ensuring long-term investment stability in airport campuses. Implementing these changes in the first quarter of 2026 will provide investors with the certainty required to proceed with shovel ready capital projects, delivering lasting benefits for both airports and the communities they serve.
“With continued partnership and investment, Canada’s airports can drive growth, enhance connectivity, and strengthen our role as gateways to global trade,” Pasher added. “We look forward to working with the government to ensure our airports remain safe, competitive, and ready to meet the needs of Canadians.”
About the Canadian Airports Council
The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), a division of Airports Council International-North America, is the voice for Canada’s airports community. Its 60 members represent more than 100 airports, including all of the privately-operated National Airports System (NAS) airports and many municipal airports across Canada.
Canada’s airports support 435,800 jobs, providing $32.9 billion in annual wages, generating $49.6 billion in GDP and producing $123.5 billion of annual economic output.
Over 2,500 delegates gather for the 2025 ACI-NA and ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition
WASHINGTON, Oct. 24, 2025 /CNW/ – Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) and ACI World will host the 2025 ACI-NA & ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition from October 25–28 in Toronto, Canada. The largest “for airports, by airports” event yet–the most important global gathering of airport leaders–will be hosted by Toronto Pearson International Airport.
“The 2025 Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition will once again bring together airport leaders, policymakers, and industry partners from across the globe to discuss the most pressing issues facing the aviation industry,” said ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. “From infrastructure investment and workforce development to cybersecurity and the ever-evolving passenger experience, this event provides an unmatched opportunity to collaborate on the issues and other opportunities shaping the future of air travel.”
“We’re ready to welcome the world to the most important global gathering of airport leaders,” said ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci. “Air travel is surging–on track for 9.8 billion journeys this year and projected to reach 18.9 billion by 2047. Meeting this growth requires global collaboration, making this event–a gathering that brings diverse perspectives together–more relevant than ever. The 2025 Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition will generate ideas and solutions that can become measurable outcomes for travellers and communities.”
“As a vital economic engine for both the region and the country, Toronto Pearson understands that airports are essential nodes in the global network of air travel – each one a star in the constellation of connectivity, demanding constant innovation,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson. “This week, we are proud to host some of the industry’s most dynamic leaders and business partners here in Toronto, as we work together to shape the future of aviation.”
The conference will feature distinguished leaders from across the global airport community and showcase the latest innovations shaping the future of aviation. This year’s event will feature keynote addresses from Colonel Chris Hadfield, the first Canadian Commander of the International Space Station, a decorated astronaut, test pilot, bestselling author, and global advocate for innovation and leadership, and David Frum, political analyst, writer at The Atlantic, New York Times bestselling author, and former speechwriter to President George W. Bush, who will deliver the closing keynote address.
The 2025 ACI-NA and ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition will feature a sold-out trade show floor with more than 180 exhibitors and is expected to draw more than 2,500 airport industry professionals.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will serve as a supporting host airport. Airport Dimensions, ADB Safegate, Boingo Wireless, Boldyn Networks, HNTB, Lyft, PSA Management, Plaza Premium Group, Ricondo, and SSP America are executive level sponsors for 2025.
A full agenda and additional conference details can be found on the ACI-NA website. Credentialed members of the media are welcome to cover the event and should contact Ryan Madsen and Sabrina Guerrieri for additional information.
About ACI-NA
Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) represents local, regional, and state governing bodies that own and operate commercial airports in the United States and Canada. ACI-NA member airports enplane more than 95 percent of the domestic and virtually all the international airline passenger and cargo traffic in North America. Approximately 380 aviation-related businesses are also members of ACI-NA, providing goods and services to airports. Collectively, U.S. airports support more than 12.8 million jobs and account for $1.8 trillion in economic activity – or more than seven percent of the total U.S. GDP. Canadian airports support 435,800 jobs and contribute C$50 billion to Canada’s GDP. Learn more at www.airportscouncil.org.
About ACI World
Airports Council International (ACI), the trade association of the world’s airports, is a federated organization comprising ACI World, ACI Africa, ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East, ACI EUROPE, ACI Latin America and the Caribbean and ACI North America (ACI-NA). In representing the best interests of airports during key phases of policy development, ACI makes a significant contribution toward ensuring a global air transport system that is safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. As of January 2025, ACI serves 830 members, operating 2,181 airports in 170 countries.
About Toronto Pearson International Airport
The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses, and goods. Toronto Pearson has been named “Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers” seven times in the last eight years by Airports Council International, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2025 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes. For operational updates and passenger information, please visit @TorontoPearson
Airport Dimensions
Airport Dimensions are global specialists in designing, building, and operating shared-use lounges and airport experiences. We’re committed to meeting the needs of global travelers by remaining at the forefront of innovation and unlocking new revenue opportunities for airports. Our guaranteed access to Collinson Group’s customers, plus our experience working with over 40 airports and multiple airline partners powers the delivery of award-winning experiences to millions of travelers.
We believe in making the airport experience better for travelers and more profitable for airports by focusing on three dimensions. The physical dimension; designing exceptional spaces and delivering standout service. The digital dimension; streamlining lounge access and enhancing guests’ experience. And the data dimension; smart data collection leading to insight-driven decisions.
ADB SAFEGATE
ADB SAFEGATE is a company that provides integrated solutions to airports, airlines, and ANSPs. As a technology leader, we aim to raise airport efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability while reducing operational costs. We tackle operational bottlenecks, enabling our clients to address current challenges while preparing for the future.
We are proud to be leading the way with innovative and smart Airside 4.0 solutions that turn airports into smart airports, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the passenger experience. Solutions include airfield lighting, power and control systems, airport and tower software, docking automation, apron management, and aftermarket services. Additionally, we are committed to providing our customers products that help minimize the ecological footprint of the air transport industry.
With over 1,400 employees and over 2,700 airports in over 175 countries, from the busiest and largest to the fastest-growing airports, ADB SAFEGATE is dedicated to making air travel safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
To learn more about ADB SAFEGATE and our innovative Airside 4.0 solutions, please visit our website at adbsafegate.com.
Boingo Wireless
Boingo Wireless is a leading provider of wireless connectivity at airports, operating the largest portfolio of airport DAS, Wi-Fi and private networks in the U.S. Boingo designs, builds and manages secure, converged public and private networks that support operations, enhance the passenger experience and enable next-gen technologies. Trusted by over 130 airports and transit venues worldwide, Boingo delivers fast, reliable connectivity that meets the demands of today’s modern airport. Learn more by downloading Boingo’s eBook for airport executives at boingo.com/airport5G.
BOLDYN NETWORKS
As one of the world’s largest neutral host providers and a leader in private networks, Boldyn Networks designs, builds, and operates networks in the most complex environments. Boldyn’s networks connect over 6 billion trips every year across high-capacity airports, train stations, and seaports. Its Wi-Fi, 5G distributed antenna systems (DAS), and private wireless solutions enhance the passenger experience, power operational efficiency, and open new revenue opportunities for airlines, concessions, and vendors.
From interconnected transit, venues and enterprises, smart cities, next-generation and bespoke private networks, to smart campuses, Boldyn enables new possibilities in the way people live, work, and travel. Our portfolio is harnessing fiber, accelerating 5G, and looking beyond to the next breakthroughs.
Lyft
Whether it’s an everyday commute or a journey that changes everything, Lyft is driven by our purpose: to serve and connect. Founded in 2012, Lyft has grown into a global mobility platform offering rideshare, taxis, private hire vehicles, car sharing, bikes, and scooters across North America and Europe. Lyft operates across 11 countries and in nearly 1,000 cities, and supports bikesharing in 16 countries. Today, millions of drivers have chosen to earn on billions of rides – helping to create a more connected world, with transportation for everyone.
HNTB
HNTB Corporation is an employee-owned infrastructure firm serving public and private owners and contractors. With more than 110 years of service, HNTB understands the life cycle of infrastructure and addresses clients’ most complex, technical, financial, and operational challenges. We partner with airports to manage, design and plan critical programs and projects. Leveraging our industry-leading expertise, along with imaginative and innovative thinking, we are helping shape the future of air travel while enhancing the traveler experience. To learn more about HNTB’s aviation expertise, visit hntb.com/aviation.
PSA MANAGAMENT
PSA Management, a nationally recognized Program, Project and Construction Management firm, was founded by Patrick Aliu in 1994. PSA prides itself on being a trendsetter within the construction industry whose growth as a minority-owned and operated firm is unrivaled. PSA is a skilled unified team comprised of graduate architects, engineers, program managers, OSHA certified inspectors, planners, I.T. managers, quality control inspectors, estimators, contract managers, value engineering specialists, superintendents and administrative support personnel. Combined, the robust team has 500 years of experience. With offices located in Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Orlando and Salt Lake City.
PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP Plaza Premium Group (PPG) is the global leader in integrated airport hospitality and passenger service solutions, operating the largest network of airport lounges worldwide and offering a 360-degree airport hospitality experience with 14 brands under its portfolio, operating in 150 countries across 600 international and domestic airports and serving 24 million passengers annually. With a mission to Make Travel Better, the group introduced the world’s first independent airport lounge concept in 1998. Plaza Premium Lounge, Plaza Premium First – award-winning airport lounges, Aerotel – the world’s largest airport transit hotel chain, Refreshhh by Aerotel, ALLWAYS – airport passenger services, airport dining concepts, Smart Traveller – innovative digital experience and rewards platform, and One Travel Experience Ecosystem (OneTECO), the group is at the forefront of transforming airport experiences for the better through innovative and human-led solutions. PPG’s commitment extends beyond its brands, as it also provides lounge management and hospitality solutions to leading airlines, alliances, and corporations worldwide. Plaza Premium Group has over 100 accolades, demonstrating its exceptional achievements and commitment to service excellence. Notably, the group has received the prestigious “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” award at the World Airline Awards by Skytrax for nine consecutive years from 2016 to 2025. With a team of over 6,000 dedicated professionals worldwide, and through a continuous pursuit of innovation and excellence, the group is experiencing exponential growth globally.
Ricondo Ricondo & Associates, Inc., and Airports Council International-North America are pleased to announce the formation of a Strategic Partnership to advocate airport business planning best practices and improvements to airport financial operations and long-term financial viability. Since its inception in 1989, Ricondo has been dedicated to solving the challenging problems facing the airport and airline industries. The consulting services offered by Ricondo range from broad problem-solving consulting to specialized technical analyses in the following areas: Airfield Analysis and Planning Airport Business and Financial Services Airspace Analysis and Planning Concessions Planning Environmental Services Forecasting General Advisory Services Land Use and Development Planning Landside Planning Management Support Services Noise Analyses Operations Research Regulatory Assistance Strategic Planning Sustainability Services Terminal and Facilities Planning
SSP America
SSP America is a division of SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage concessions in travel locations, operating restaurants, bars, cafés, food courts, lounges, and convenience stores in airports, train stations, motorway service stations, and other leisure locations. We operate in approximately 180 airports and 300 rail stations in 36 countries around the world and operate more than 550 international, national, and local brands across our 2,700 units. The SSP America team is driven by a shared vision to bring authentic restaurant experiences to every airport in North America. Our employees have a passion for exceptional food served by people who believe in heartfelt hospitality. Our airport partners trust SSP America to deliver a world-class portfolio of brands with broad passenger appeal and lasting commercial viability. Our brand heroes trust us to bring a taste of place to their hometown airport.
SOURCE Airports Council International – North America d/b/a Canadian Airports Council
OTTAWA, ON, June 25, 2025 /CNW/ – Today, over 30 airports across Canada will come together to celebrate the second annual Airport Workers Day, a national event recognizing the contributions of the people who keep Canada’s aviation system running. From front-line agents to behind-the-scenes technicians, this day honours the individuals who connect people and goods, communities, and Canada to the world.
This year, the Canadian Airports Council (CAC) is proud to expand the celebration by presenting eight national awards to outstanding airport workers across the country.
This year’s award recipients are:
Jocelyn Alexander, Calgary International Airport – Rising Star
Mike Lazenby, Dexterra Group, Edmonton International Airport – Excellence in Efficiency Optimization
Vivian Chan, Vancouver International Airport – Industry Champion
“This day is about recognizing the dedication and importance of airport workers across the country,” said Monette Pasher, President of the Canadian Airports Council. “With more than 200,000 people working directly in airports, supporting passenger and cargo operations, and 150 million passengers expected to travel through Canada’s airports in 2025, it is important we take a moment to thank the teams who make it all possible.”
Canada’s airports are more than travel hubs, they are vital infrastructure that powers the economy. Nationally, airports support 435,800 jobs, provide $32.9 billion in annual wages, generate $49.6 billion in GDP, and produce $123.5 billion in total annual economic output.
Across the country, participating airports will host appreciation events for their teams who keep the engine of Canada’s aviation industry moving. These celebrations are a small way to thank the teams whose work is essential to the safety, efficiency, and success of Canada’s air transportation system.
From equipment operators and customer service agents to security personnel, mechanics, and firefighters, the wide range of roles at airports reflects the diversity and depth of talent in the industry. Airport Workers Day is a coordinated national effort to celebrate our workforce and highlight the vital role aviation plays in our economy and communities.
Join the celebration and share your appreciation using #AirportWorkersDay2025.
About the Canadian Airports Council
The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), a division of Airports Council International-North America, is the voice for Canada’s airports community. Its 60 members represent more than 100 airports, including all of the privately-operated National Airports System (NAS) airports and many municipal airports across Canada.
Canada’s airports support 435,800 jobs, providing $32.9 billion in annual wages, generating $49.6 billion in GDP and producing $123.5 billion of annual economic output.
