JULY 20, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON – Today, Niagara District Airport received an investment of $9.7 million from the Government of Ontario to advance its airport redevelopment project, as outlined in its 2025-2045 Master Plan.
“The province’s support marks a critical step in advancing our Master Plan and realizing our vision of becoming a modern regional gateway,” says Daniel Pilon, chief executive officer. “This funding brings us one step closer to introducing scheduled commercial service to Niagara, serving more than half a million residents and 13 million annual visitors. We thank Premier Ford, Minister Sarkaria, and the provincial government for their continued partnership and shared vision of enhancing air access to Niagara.”
What will this funding support?
This funding enables Niagara District Airport to advance planning and design work for the infrastructure improvements identified in its 2025–2045 Master Plan. This includes the onboarding of necessary partners to support the detailed design work for roadway improvements, a runway extension, a parallel taxiway, a Combined Services Building, and a new Air Terminal Building. The funding will also support essential geotechnical and topographic surveys, environmental and regulatory requirements, and other technical work needed to move the project forward.Public engagement
Public engagement remains a priority throughout the airport’s redevelopment process, with the Airport committed to keeping residents, businesses, and regional partners informed and meaningfully engaged as planning and design work advances. Public input will continue to play an important role in shaping the Airport’s future by ensuring community perspectives are heard and considered.
A third phase of public information sessions will be held, providing residents with the opportunity to come and learn about the project, as well as other general updates happening at the airport, including the new Air Canada motorcoach service. Those interested in visiting the airport are encouraged to contact Airport staff at info@niagaradistrictairport.ca.
Residents can stay informed by subscribing to the Airport’s quarterly newsletter to receive regular updates on the project, and by following the Airport on social media for more timely updates. To learn more about the airport’s redevelopment project, visit the Airport’s website.
Economic impact
The Airport’s redevelopment is aligned with the province’s Destination Niagara Strategy, supporting the growth of tourism, improving travel access for residents, and creating good-paying jobs. The redevelopment project will unlock new economic opportunities across the Niagara region, benefiting Niagara’s hotels, restaurants, wineries, entertainment venues, historic sites, and visitor attractions.
The Airport’s Master Plan projects more than $1 billion in economic output, the creation of 1,100 construction jobs, and 500 permanent jobs once the modernized airport is fully operational.
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About Niagara District Airport
Niagara District Airport (YCM) is a regional transportation hub located in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Airport serves as a premier gateway to the Niagara region’s award-winning wineries, theatres, golf courses, casinos, and the world-famous Niagara Falls. Strategically positioned near major tourism, business, and wine destinations, YCM plays a key role in enhancing regional connectivity and future growth. The Airport is owned by the City of Niagara Falls, City of St. Catharines, and Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and governed by a nine-member commission. Follow the Airport on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Megan McRae, Communications Manager
(905) 684-7447 x106 | mmcrae@niagaradistrictairport.ca