SEPTEMBER 14, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON – Niagara District Airport is celebrating nearly a century of operations as a regional airport in the Niagara region.
The airport has been woven into the fabric of Niagara’s aviation community since its official opening weekend, September 13 to 15, 1929. First established and operated by Haney Repair Service of St. Catharines on the eastern edge of St. Catharines, the airport relocated three miles northeast in 1935 to its current location today, and has been home to generations of pilots and businesses ever since.
“Today, we celebrate the people and the businesses who have helped shape our airport over the decades,” says Dan Pilon, chief executive officer. “From Haney's Repair Service to St. Catharines Flying Club and everything and everyone in between: thank you for being part of our story.”
The airport played an important role in Canada’s aviation efforts during the Second World War. From 1940 to 1944, it was home to the No. 9 Elementary Flight Training School, where over 2,000 pilots were trained for service. In 1945, the airport also served as the temporary home to the No. 4 Wireless Training Unit of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Today, the airport actively supports a wide variety of aviation activity, including the Air Canada Landline service, scenic air tours, private and business charters, and pilot training.
“While we're proud of where we've been, we're just as excited about where we're going,” adds Pilon. “With our new Master Plan in place, we're planning for a future of responsible growth — making travel more convenient for Niagara's residents, and making Niagara more accessible to our visitors from around the world.”
Learn more about the airport’s history at https://www.niagaradistrictairport.com/site/history.
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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 or learn more at www.niagaradistrictairport.com.
Media Contact
Megan McRae, Communications Manager
(905) 684-7447 x106 | mmcrae@niagaradistrictairport.ca