OTTAWA, ON, July 3, 2026 /CNW/ – Expanding Canada’s air transport agreements promotes trade diversification, facilitates people-to-people ties, strengthens supply chains, boosts tourism and helps fuel our country’s economic growth.  

Today, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced an expanded air transport agreement with Mongolia. The expanded agreement allows for direct flights between Canada and Mongolia for the first time.

The expanded agreement also includes:

• Up to three weekly passenger-combination flights per country
• Unlimited weekly all-cargo flights
• Open fifth freedom rights for all-cargo flights (the ability to operate flights between two foreign countries as long as the flight either starts or ends in the airline’s home country)

Quotes

“Mongolia is an emerging market and I’m pleased to see this expanded air transport agreement, which will unlock exciting new opportunities for travellers and businesses in both our countries.”

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

“Canada’s expanded air transport agreement with Mongolia will strengthen our two-way commercial ties and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and exporters, supporting Canada’s trade diversification agenda and leading to a more connected and prosperous global economy.”

The Honourable Maninder Sidhu
Minister of International Trade 

Quick facts

• The Canada-Mongolia Air Transport Agreement was originally concluded in 2018. This is the first expansion of the agreement.
• The Government of Canada is continually working on new and expanded air transport agreements to improve Canada’s international connectivity and provide more options for travellers and shippers.
• Canada has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.

Visit Transport Canada’s website.

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VAL-D’OR, QC, May 19, 2026 /CNW/ – Safe and reliable airports are vital to the economic and social well-being of communities across Canada. In addition to supporting personal travel, local and regional airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and resource development sectors.

Today, the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, on behalf of the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced that the Government of Canada is strengthening air safety and connectivity at the Val-d’Or Regional Airport.

Through the Airports Capital Assistance Program, the federal government is providing nearly $12 million to the Val-d’Or Regional Airport for the rehabilitation of a 6,000 ft section of Runway 18-36, as well as the reconstruction of the existing asphalt pavement of the Echo Taxiway.

Due to years of use and weather, the 31-year-old pavement has exceeded its lifecycle and shows increasing signs of deterioration. The rehabilitation work will ensure that the airport can maintain safety for passengers, crews, and airport workers, and decrease long-term repair and maintenance costs for the community. The airport has the third longest runway in Quebec after Montreal-Mirabel Airport and Montreal-Trudeau Airport.

This project will support year-round connectivity and socio-economic development for the Abitibi-Témiscamingue territory and northern Quebec through efficient and safe airport infrastructure and services.

Quotes

“Local airports are major contributors to the economic growth and social well-being of smaller communities. In addition to supporting travel and tourism, local airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and resource development sectors. This investment will improve safe and efficient air transportation while helping support safer, healthier, and more connected communities across the region.”

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

“The Val-d’Or Regional Airport is a vital gateway for residents, businesses, trade, and tourism in our beautiful region. This investment will enhance safety for travellers and residents while supporting productivity and economic growth here at home. Providing reliable air services for business and trade, and for travel between communities in Quebec, the North, and throughout Canada is a priority for our government.”

The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty
Minister of Indigenous Services

“Every day, the Val-d’Or Regional Airport helps connect people, support businesses, assist northern communities, and promote the socioeconomic development of a vast territory. We would like to highlight the federal government’s dedication and commitment through this essential contribution to the rehabilitation of the 10,000-foot runway and the remaining section of Echo Way.”

Daniel Massé
President of the Board of Directors of the Val-d’Or Regional Airport

Quick Facts

• Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program provides federal funding to help eligible airports finance capital projects and equipment that will help them maintain safety.
• Eligible projects include the purchase/replacement of heavy airside mobile equipment (snow blowers, snowplows, runway sweepers, loaders and material spreaders) and aircraft rescue firefighting vehicles, associated equipment and shelters, the rehabilitation of runway, taxiway and apron pavements, airfield lighting and electrical systems, and the installation of wildlife fencing.
• Since its launch in 1995, the Airports Capital Assistance Program has committed over $1.3 billion for 1,288 projects at 201 local, regional and National Airports System airports across the country.
• Since the Airports Capital Assistance Program started in 1995, the Val-d’Or Regional Airport has received more than $26.2 million in funding for 19 safety projects, including today’s announcement.

Associated Link

• Airports Capital Assistance Program

Visit Transport Canada’s website. 

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 23, 2026 /CNW/ – The Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, today issued the following statement to mark National Aviation Day.

“On National Aviation Day, we celebrate Canada’s proud aviation history and the vital role air transportation plays in connecting our vast country and linking Canadians to the world.

“From the first powered flight in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, more than a century ago, to the development of world-class aircraft manufacturing and aerospace expertise, Canada has long been a leader in aviation.

“Aviation remains essential to the daily lives of Canadians. Our air transportation system enables millions of passengers and vast quantities of goods to move safely and efficiently each year. It connects families, supports tourism, strengthens supply chains, and ensures that communities–particularly in rural, remote, and northern regions–have access to critical services and economic opportunities.

“Aviation is also a powerful economic engine. The sector supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country and contributes significantly to Canada’s prosperity. A strong and competitive aviation system helps Canadian businesses reach global markets, attracts investment, and enhances our ability to compete on the world stage.

“Safety is, and will always be, our top priority. Canada’s aviation system is recognized globally for its strong safety record, built on rigorous standards, continuous oversight, and close collaboration between government, industry, and international partners. We remain committed to learning, improving, and adapting to new challenges so that Canadians can continue to have confidence in our air transportation system, and so that it continues to be resilient, reliable and trusted.

“As we look to the future, innovation and technology will play an increasingly important role in shaping the next chapter of Canadian aviation. From cleaner fuels and quieter aircraft to digital systems that improve efficiency and environmental performance, these innovations are helping to reduce environmental impacts, improve efficiency, and position Canada as a leader in the transition to a more sustainable aviation sector.

“Today is also an opportunity to recognize and thank the people who make aviation possible. Pilots, flight attendants, air traffic controllers, engineers, maintenance professionals, airport workers, manufacturers, inspectors, and many others work tirelessly–often behind the scenes–to keep Canadians safe and connected. Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication are the backbone of our aviation system.

“On National Aviation Day, we recognize the achievements of the past, the strength of the present, and the promise of the future. Together, we will continue to build an aviation system that serves Canadians, drives innovation, and helps our country thrive.”

Visit Transport Canada’s website.

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 20, 2026 /CNW/ – The Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, today issued the following statement to mark the International Day Commemorating Air Crash Victims and their Families.

“Today, on the International Civil Aviation Organization’s International Day Commemorating Air Crash Victims and their Families, Canada joins countries around the world in honouring the memory of those whose lives were tragically cut short in aviation accidents, and in expressing our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones who continue to feel the impact of their loss.

“We reflect not only on the lives taken too soon, but also on the resilience and courage shown by families in the face of unimaginable grief. Their strength inspires us to continue our work to make aviation safer and more transparent and reinforces our collective commitment to preventing future tragedies.

“Canada is steadfast in its commitment to global aviation safety. Through the Safer Skies Initiative, we are working with international partners to strengthen safety standards, mitigate risks to civil aviation — including those posed by conflict and unstable environments — and promote the highest levels of protection for passengers and crew. This initiative reflects Canada’s belief that safety is a shared responsibility and that every air traveller deserves to arrive at their destination safely and with confidence.

“When air disasters occur, the way we respond matters deeply. Transport Canada is honoured to collaborate with ICAO and with States around the world to improve the support provided to victims and their families. Together, we advance international standards and best practices that ensure timely, transparent communication, respectful care, and coordinated support for those affected by tragedy. These efforts are rooted in compassion and guided by our shared commitment to placing people at the centre of our global aviation system.

“Canada will continue to work with ICAO, member States, industry partners, and families to strengthen how we prevent accidents and how we care for those left behind when tragedy strikes. On this International Day Commemorating Air Crash Victims and their Families, we reaffirm our resolve to honour the memory of victims through concrete action, collaboration, and a sustained commitment to safer skies for all.”

Visit Transport Canada’s website. 

OTTAWA, ON, Dec. 1, 2025 /CNW/ – Aviation is a major economic driver for our country. Expanding Canada’s air transport agreements allows new air services that provide more travel options for Canadians and encourage lower fares, strengthen our people-to-people and commercial ties around the world, and help promote trade diversification. 

Today, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, and the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, announced that Canada has expanded its air transport agreements with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

These expanded agreements come following successful negotiations at the International Civil Aviation Organization’s 17th annual Air Services Negotiation Event (ICAN 2025), hosted this year by the Dominican Republic.

The expanded Canada–Saudi-Arabia Air Transport Agreement includes:

• Up to 14 passenger flights per week per country, up from four.
• Unlimited all-cargo flights, up from three weekly per country.
• Open fifth-freedom rights for all-cargo services, which allow an airline to carry passengers or cargo between two foreign countries on a flight that begins or ends in its home country.

Building on the Prime Minister’s recent visit to the UAE where more direct commercial flights between both countries were announced, the expanded Canada–United Arab Emirates Air Transport Agreement includes:

• An additional 14 passenger flights per week per country, for a total of 35 per country
• Unlimited all-cargo flights, up from four weekly per country.
• Open fifth freedom rights for all-cargo services.

Airlines can begin offering services under these expanded agreements immediately.

Quotes

“These expanded air transport agreements are a win for Canadian workers, businesses, and travellers alike. By opening the door to more flights, more competition, and more global connections, we are strengthening our ties with key partners, creating new opportunities for trade diversification, and giving Canadians more affordable options to see the world. This is the kind of smart, forward-looking growth that keeps Canada competitive and prosperous on the global stage.”

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

“The expanded air transport agreements with Saudi Arabia and the UAE will open new access for Canadians to key destinations in the Middle East. By deepening our commercial ties with long-standing partners, we are creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses and exporters to grow, meet rising global demand, and build lasting connections.”

The Honourable Maninder Sidhu
Minister of International Trade

Quick facts

• Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are two of Canada’s largest and fastest growing air transport markets in the Middle East.
• In 2024, Saudi Arabia was Canada’s largest merchandise trading partner in the Middle East.
• Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Saudi Arabia in 2024 was valued at approximately $4.1 billion: $2 billion worth of exports from Canada and $2.1 billion worth of imports to Canada.
• In 2024, Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with the UAE was valued at $3.4 billion, with $2.6 billion in exports and $800 million in imports.
• The Government of Canada is continually working on new and expanded air transport agreements to improve Canada’s international connectivity and provide more options for travellers and shippers.
• Canada has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.

Visit Transport Canada’s website.

OTTAWA, ON, March 11, 2025 /CNW/ – Expanding Canada’s international air transport agreements allows airlines to introduce more flight options, providing passengers and shippers with greater choice and convenience, while creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses.

Today, the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand, announced that Canada has recently expanded the Canada-Senegal Air Transport Agreement. The expanded agreement with Senegal includes:

• The right for airlines of either country to operate direct flights to any destination in the other country’s territory.
• A capacity allowance of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for the airlines of each country.
• Significant operating flexibility for all-cargo services.

Airlines can begin offering services under this new agreement immediately.

Quotes

“By allowing direct flights between our two countries, this agreement will significantly strengthen our bilateral relations with Senegal. It paves the way to new opportunities in a growing market, which is great news for Canadian businesses and travellers.”

The Honourable Anita Anand
Minister of Transport and Internal Trade

“As we just launched Canada’s first global Africa Strategy, the expansion of the Canada-Senegal Air Transport Agreement marks a significant milestone. This agreement boosts tourism and operational flexibility for airlines, fosters people-to-people ties between Canada and Senegal and creates new opportunities for Canadian businesses. Aligned with our commitment to helping Canadian exporters access international markets, it also strengthens Canada’s presence across African countries.”

The Honourable Mary Ng
Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development 

Quick facts

• In 2023, Canada’s trade with Senegal was approximately $119.4 million, with $112.3 million in exports and $7.1 million in imports from Senegal.
• The Canada-Senegal trade relationship offers significant potential for growth, particularly in the mining, agriculture, oil and gas, clean energy and digital sectors.
• The Government of Canada is continually working on new and expanded air transport agreements under the Blue Sky policy, which encourages long-term, sustainable competition and the development of international air services.
• Canada has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.

Associated link

Blue Sky Policy: www.canada.ca/bluesky

Visit Transport Canada’s website.

OTTAWA, ON, March 7, 2025 /CNW/ – Every year, Canada’s airports welcome millions of passengers, connecting people within and outside of Canada and serving as important economic drivers. Investments in these airports strengthen business development, improve aviation services and safety, and enhance access to transportation for Canada’s rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.

Today, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, on behalf of the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand, released a policy statement on investment for Canada’s National Airports System airports. This statement is a commitment from Budget 2024 to support and encourage investments in airport facilities.

The National Airports System is made up of 26 airports, 22 of which are run by private, not-for-profit airport authorities. While these authorities are operationally and financially independent, the airports themselves are located on land leased from the Government of Canada.

The policy statement highlights the existing flexibilities under the governance model for Canada’s airport authorities to attract investment, including from pension funds. It outlines three avenues, subleases, subcontracts and subsidiaries, for private investors and developers to collaborate with airport authorities.

The policy statement also indicates that the government intends to explore negotiations to extend airport authority leases to facilitate third party investment and development projects on airport lands.

Quote

“Canada’s airport operators have built world-class infrastructure, connecting people, services, and goods. As our air sector continues to grow, investment from various sources will be essential to ensure that our airports can meet the needs of Canadians. This policy statement provides clear direction on the many ways private investors can work with National Airports System airport authorities to the benefit of both the airports and the communities they serve.”

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

Related products

• Policy statement on investment at National Airports System airports operated by airport authorities

Visit Transport Canada’s website.

March 5, 2025     Ottawa, Ontario    Transport Canada

Growing and expanding Canada’s air transport relationships allows airlines to introduce more flight options, giving passengers more choice and greater convenience, and opening up new opportunities for Canadian businesses.

Today, the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand, announced that Canada has recently reached a first-time air transport agreement with Ghana. The new agreement with Ghana includes:

• The right for Canada and Ghana to designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled air services between the two countries.
• The right for those airlines to serve any points in the two countries.
• A capacity of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for the airlines of each country.

Airlines can offer services under this new agreement immediately.

Quotes

“Ghana is a growing market for Canada, and I am pleased to see this first agreement open the door to new opportunities for travellers and businesses in both countries. This agreement will connect more passengers and strengthen our cultural and commercial ties.”

The Honourable Anita Anand
Minister of Transport and Internal Trade

“The newly finalized Air Transport Agreement between Canada and Ghana represents a significant step forward for both nations. This agreement will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and drive economic growth. For Canada, it provides critical support for our exporters, opening doors to the dynamic West African market and enabling Canadian businesses to meet global demand for their products. This partnership reinforces our commitment to expanding trade and fostering mutually beneficial relationships across the globe.”

The Honourable Mary Ng
Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development

Quick facts

• In 2023, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Ghana reached over $380 million. Canadian exports totaled $281 million while imports from Ghana reached $99.8 million.
• The Government of Canada is continually working on new and expanded air transport agreements under the Blue Sky policy, which encourages long-term, sustainable competition and the development of international air services.
• Canada has air transport agreements or arrangements covering more than 125 countries.

Associated links

• Blue Sky Policy