On September 15, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a government plan that would allow private investors to assume operational control of Canada’s four biggest airports – those in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver. The proposal marks a shift from the current model in which these major facilities are managed by government agencies.
The four airports targeted by the plan are the nation’s busiest and serve as primary gateways for both domestic and international travel. Under the new framework, private sector entities would be invited to take over day‑to‑day management responsibilities while the federal government would retain ownership of the underlying assets.
The move follows a broader discussion about the efficiency and competitiveness of airport operations in Canada. By opening management to private investors, the government aims to introduce commercial expertise, potentially accelerating infrastructure upgrades and improving service standards. The proposal does not alter the public ownership of the airport properties, but it does signal a willingness to explore alternative governance structures for critical transportation hubs.
Officials indicated that the plan will be presented to relevant ministries and regulatory bodies for further review. No specific timeline for implementation was disclosed, and the government said it will consult with stakeholders to refine the details of the private‑operator model. The announcement comes as part of a series of initiatives aimed at modernising Canada’s transportation network and enhancing its capacity to meet future demand.