RCAC calls for aviation revenues to be reinvested in a connected national transportation system

Regional airports say proposed changes to Canada's largest airports are an opportunity to rethink how the country funds essential aviation infrastructure

THOMPSON, MB, Sept. 24, 2026 /CNW/ -- Regional Community Airports of Canada (RCAC) says the federal government's consideration of concession arrangements at Canada's four largest airports presents an opportunity to rethink how Canada funds its aviation system.

In an open letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney, RCAC supports efforts restructure Canada's aviation system, discontinuing the current user-pay model that stifles growth and connectivity, particularly among regional airports serving rural, northern and remote communities.  

"For more than 30 years, Canada's aviation system has not only funded itself, but has generated tens of billions of revenues for government", said RCAC Chair James Lindsey. "As we consider its next evolution, do we continue treating aviation as a source of revenue, or recognize it as essential infrastructure connecting Canadians and enabling our economy"

For many communities, aviation is not a convenience or one transportation option among several. It is the only practical connection to health care, essential services, workforce mobility, markets and the economy.

According to RCAC, in 2025 the federal government collected $556 million in airport ground rents, $143 million in aviation fuel taxes and $100 million in aviation security fee surpluses. Meanwhile, regional airports and their communities face significant operating and capital pressures.

Thirty Canadian communities have lost scheduled passenger air service since the pandemic.

Canada's regional airports served approximately 15 million passengers in 2025, connecting communities pivotal to the country's natural resources and future economic opportunities.

"Canada cannot achieve our economic, social or sovereignty ambitions without connecting our nation," Lindsey said. "Our airports connect people and communities, resources to markets, workers to opportunities and Canada to the world. A national aviation policy must recognize that role and invest accordingly."

RCAC calls for a national approach that addresses operating and capital costs, strengthens regional connectivity, reduces air transportation costs and recognizes aviation as essential infrastructure.

Read RCAC's full open letter to the Prime Minister:  https://rcacc.ca/media-release/letters-to-government-officials/

About Regional Community Airports of Canada

Founded in 2004, RCAC represents more than 62 regional and community airports across Canada, advocating for their viability and bringing their priorities to industry and the federal government.

SOURCE Regional Community Airports of Canada

MEDIA CONTACT: James Lindsey, Regional Community Airports of Canada, 647-241-5860, [email protected]