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Efforts to attract new passengers has resulted in all-time record traffic for 2017, Saint John Airport (YSJ) president and CEO Derrick Stanford announced on May 8, 2018.
“It’s been a truly transformational year for our airport,” said Stanford at the annual general meeting of the Saint John Airport Authority.
“This year brought many opportunities and challenges and when I reflect on all the YSJ team has achieved, I feel encouraged and excited for the year ahead.”
The Saint John Airport Authority also released its 2017 annual report as part of its annual general meeting. Click here to read a copy!
The report shows strong growth with 263,719 passengers travelling through the airport, representing a 5.2 per cent increase over 2016 and surpassing the previous record of 252,000 in 2015.
Passenger growth is attributed to a number of enhancements implemented in 2017, including:
- Airline partners: In September, Porter Airlines launched flights to Ottawa International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, offering YSJ two new destinations and leading to overall fare savings as a result of increased competition. Air Canada boosted capacity and added an additional seasonal daily flight to Toronto;
- User-experience: Over the course of 2017, YSJ introduced new services and amenities including HotSpot Parking, duty-free shopping and electric vehicle charging;
- Infrastructure: Capital projects in 2017 saw major renovations to three entrances (departures, arrivals and main), as well as to the public washrooms and departures lounge. In the short-term parking area, new walkways, paving, lighting, curbing and pay stations were added.
“These significant improvements combined with the recently-announced investment by the Governments of Canada and New Brunswick will ensure we’re able to build on the momentum established in 2017,” said Stanford.
“Once our safety-related airfield improvements are complete, we’ll be in an enhanced position to realize our passenger growth and remain a key economic driver for the region.”
Airport traffic is expected to grow to more than 295,000 in 2018.
