Can Canadian airports keep pace with the surge in air travel demand?

As we approach the summer of 2023, Canada's airports are bracing for a significant increase in air travel demand. With the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, people are eager to reconnect with family, explore new destinations, and conduct business face-to-face. However, the question remains: have Canada's airports turned a corner when it comes to flight delays and cancellations? Are they prepared for the expected spike in demand for air travel in the coming summer months? The country's major airports, including Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal, have been working hard to improve efficiency and customer experience. However, despite their best efforts, Canadian airports face multiple challenges that could disrupt operations and hinder fair access for all users. One of the most pressing concerns is the ongoing runway construction activities at various airports. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many airports deferred maintenance and upgrades, leading to a backlog of construction projects. As a result, airport capacity is constrained, leading to increased delays and cancellations. Additionally, staffing challenges at Nav Canada, the country's civil air navigation service provider, pose a significant risk to airport operations. Insufficient staffing could result in service reductions and further restrictions, exacerbating the problem of flight delays and cancellations. The organization has faced difficulty in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, which could lead to a domino effect on airport efficiency across the nation. Anthony Norejko is the president and CEO of the Canadian Business Aviation Association. Photograph courtesy of Anthony Norejko These challenges are compounded by the recent federal budget, which has increased the air travellers security charge (ATSC). This additional cost burden on the flying public may drive some Canadians to opt for flights from American airports, leaving Canadian carriers to struggle with reduced demand and high operating costs. The ATSC increase, combined with other taxes and fees, makes flying within Canada significantly more expensive than travelling across the border, resulting in lost revenue for Canadian air operators and airports. To ensure fair historical access to Canada's airports and maintain a high level of service, the government must take decisive action to address these issues. First, access to Canada’s airports is a right for all Canadians. The government needs to ensure that airport authorities and the air navigation service provider are operating at peak safety and operational efficiency to ensure no Canadian is left behind. In addition, they should invest in innovative security solutions, leveraging programs like Nexus to expedite the security screening process. Unlike the United States, Canadian airports do not have dedicated Nexus lines from entry to exit, which could help frequent travellers get through security more quickly and efficiently. This would not only enhance the passenger experience, but also help reduce wait times, congestion, and cost at security checkpoints. Secondly, the government must acknowledge and address the high cost of air travel for Canadians. High fees and taxes are pushing travellers to seek cheaper alternatives, which could ultimately lead to reduced services and leave many stranded. In order to remain competitive and preserve the accessibility of air travel, the government should consider revisiting the ATSC and other fees that are making flying within Canada prohibitively expensive. Furthermore, the government should work closely with Nav Canada and the aviation industry to address staffing shortages and ensure that the country's air services are adequately resourced. This may involve investing in training and development programs, as well as offering incentives to attract and retain skilled workers in the field. In conclusion, as we look forward to a summer filled with the promise of travel and adventure, it is crucial that Canadian airports, Nav Canada, and the government take decisive action to address the challenges faced by the industry. Fair access and affordable air travel are essential to ensuring that Canadians can fully embrace the return of air travel in the post-pandemic world. Only then will our airports be able to keep pace with the surge in demand and deliver the quality service that all Canadians rightfully expect. Anthony Norejko serves as the president and CEO of the Canadian Business Aviation Association. The Hill Times

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Can Canadian airports keep pace with the surge in air travel demand?

Fair access and affordable air travel are essential to ensuring that Canadians can fully embrace the return of air travel in the post-pandemic world.

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