QUESTION PERIOD — Transport
Airport Privatization
October 8, 2026
Government leader, I was surprised to read in today’s The Globe and Mail that the Vancouver International Airport may become one of the first of Canada’s major airports to be privatized.
Can you confirm whether that is, in fact, the government’s intention? Does the government believe it is appropriate to begin preliminary discussions with potential investors before consulting Parliament or undertaking the regulatory consultations that experts have said are necessary to protect airport operations, public accountability and the interests of Canadian travellers?
With respect to airport privatization, the government is looking at new ways to improve airports, passenger experience, regional connectivity and airport operations and, thus, will seek private investment through long-term concessions to operate Canada’s four largest airports: Toronto Pearson, Montréal-Trudeau, Vancouver International and Calgary International. This will bring in new capital and expertise, while the federal government retains ownership of the underlying assets and reinvests in regional and remote air connections. This will be made public. I know there will be debate in the other place, as well as here, probably, on those very important endeavours pertaining to airports in Canada.
Speaking of expertise, airline industry representatives have repeatedly warned that privatization could lead to higher airport fees, costs that would ultimately be passed down to travellers at a time when Canadians are already struggling with the high cost of air travel.
When will your government introduce legislation on airport privatization so that Parliament and Canadians have an opportunity to fully examine and debate these proposals?
We’re at the earliest stages of discussion on this matter. The government is aware of the increasing costs across Canada, particularly of airfare and airport organization. I’m sure that will be taken into consideration during those discussions.
