2024 ANNUAL REPORT

YYG

Gateway

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Growth

Chair's Message

To our valued stakeholders, community members, and fellow Islanders,
It is with great pleasure that I present the 2024 annual report for the Charlottetown Airport Authority. This year has been marked by significant achievements, reflecting our unwavering commitment to providing a safe, efficient, and sustainable airport experience.

Key highlights of 2024 include:

  • Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers:
    • We are delighted to report another year of record-breaking passenger traffic, with over 410,000 passengers traveling through YYG. This demonstrates the airport's vital role in connecting Prince Edward Island to the world. This represents a continued growth from the previous year, and significant growth over pre pandemic numbers.
  • Infrastructure Development:
    • Progress on the air terminal building expansion project, with the commencement of Phase 1b, and continued planning for phases 2 and 3. This ongoing development is crucial to meeting the growing demands of our passengers and airlines.
  • Enhanced Connectivity:
    • We have seen strong support from our airline partners, with Air Canada, Porter, WestJet, and Flair providing service to six destinations.
  • Sustainability Initiatives:
    • The launch of our new sustainability and accessibility plans underscores our dedication to responsible and inclusive growth.
    • Achieving Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation is a major accomplishment and demonstrates our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.
  • Economic Impact:
    • The airport continues to be a major economic driver for Prince Edward Island, generating a significant economic impact for the province.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on:

  • Growing air service options.
  • Continued infrastructure improvements.
  • Enhancing the passenger experience.
  • Furthering our sustainability goals.

I extend my sincere gratitude to my fellow board members for their ongoing commitment to our board and passion for YYG.

On behalf of the entire organization, I want to thank Patrick MacFadyen for your dedicated service on the board over the past nine years. Your contributions have left an indelible mark, and we are truly grateful for the time and energy you invested in our mission.

In September we were pleased to welcome Selina Pellerin to our board. Selina’s experience and perspective will be invaluable as we work towards our strategic priorities.

This year's success is a direct result of the dedication and talent of our exceptional employees. We deeply appreciate their commitment to excellence, their collaborative spirit, and their passion for our mission. Their contributions, both large and small, have been essential in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. We are truly fortunate to have such a remarkable team.

Finally, a special thanks to all our government partners and community stakeholders for your contribution to our success. We are truly grateful for your commitment to our shared vision.

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Steve Loggie
Chair

Gateway

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the Future

CEO's Message

It is with immense pride that I present the 2024 annual report for the Charlottetown Airport Authority (CAA). 2024 was a landmark year for YYG, marked by record-breaking passenger numbers and significant strides in our ongoing development and growth.

We are thrilled to announce that we achieved a second consecutive year of record passenger traffic, with over 410,000 passengers traveling through YYG. This represents a 2.0% increase over 2023, and a remarkable 7.2% increase compared to 2019. This growth is a testament to the increasing demand for travel to and from Prince Edward Island, and the hard work of our dedicated team and valued airline partners. It also demonstrates YYG’s vital role in connecting Prince Edward Island to the world.

Over the past year, we maintained strong partnerships with Air Canada, Porter, WestJet, and Flair, offering flights to six key destinations. On behalf of the entire YYG community, I want to thank all of our valued airline partners for their investment in PEI and contribution to our ongoing success.

To meet the needs of our airline partners and loyal passengers, we commenced construction of Phase 1b of our air terminal building expansion project and advanced the design phases for 2 and 3. This expansion is crucial to accommodate our growing passenger traffic and enhance the traveler experience.

To measure our impact on the Island’s economy, an economic impact study was performed in 2024, based on the previous year’s data. The study concluded that YYG has an impressive annual economic impact of $366.4 million. Construction activities in 2023 generated an economic value of $35.5 million, while $110 million in wages was generated. we’re proud to create jobs, support local businesses, and help PEI thrive — all while connecting you to what matters most.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on strengthening our air service network and enhancing the overall airport experience. We are excited to have all four airline partners returning this summer, highlighted by Porter’s announcement of new daily jet service to Toronto for the summer season. We are also excited to host Altitude East 2025, Atlantic Canada's leading air access forum that will bring airports, airlines, and industry stakeholders from across Canada to Charlottetown in June.

I extend my sincere gratitude to our staff, board members, and the entire airport community for their unwavering support. We are committed to building on this momentum and ensuring YYG remains a vital gateway for Prince Edward Island.

DougSig

Doug Newson
Chief Executive Officer

Business Planning

Our Vision

To provide an exceptional Island experience.

 

Our Mission

To provide a convenient, modern, and sustainable airport that connects people and drives economic growth in Prince Edward Island.

 

Our Strategic Goals

  • Maximize Business Development.
  • Improve Passenger Experience.
  • Safe, Secure, and Sustainable Operations.
  • Organizational Excellence.
  • Strong Stakeholder and Community Support.

Air Service

For the second consecutive year, the airport experienced a record-breaking year for passenger travel, with 410,773 passengers passing through. This represents a 2% increase over 2023, which was also a record year, and a 7.2% increase compared to 2019.

The year got off to a great start as we benefited an Air Canada capacity from them operate Rouge aircraft during the winter months for the first time ever. That momentum carried over to the spring as we saw consistent year-over-year passenger growth in every month.

The summer was even better as every month from May to August produced record monthly stats. This was driven by Air Canada serving Toronto and Montreal with five daily flights, WestJet bringing back Toronto service to go along with their Calgary and Edmonton service, Porter continuing to perform well on the Ottawa market, and Flair offering seven weekly flights combined between Toronto and Kitchener-Waterloo.

Looking ahead we are pleased to have all four airline partners providing air service options at YYG this summer. One new flight being offered will be daily non-stop jet service from Porter between Charlottetown and Toronto Pearson Airport. Our goal is to continue to provide air access to key markets and hubs for our residents, and those wanting to visit PEI as visitors or for business.

Passenger stats:

2020 71,480
2021 111,160
2022 341,649
2023 402,686
2024 410,773

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Connection

Marketing &
Community Relations

In today's rapidly evolving travel landscape, effective marketing strategies are essential for airports to remain competitive and enhance the passenger experience. At YYG Charlottetown Airport, we recognize the importance of a dynamic marketing approach to attract travelers, foster brand loyalty, and ensure an exceptional Island experience for all.

By aligning our marketing and communication strategies with changing passenger needs and expectations, embracing innovative technologies, and nurturing strategic community partnerships, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences that resonate with our travellers.

The Marketing, Communications and Community Engagement section of this report highlights our efforts to promote YYG engagement within our community and communicate our economic and social contributions throughout the reporting period.

Key 2024 Highlights:

  • Demonstrating Economic Value: A comprehensive Economic Impact Report was completed, quantifying the significant contribution of Charlottetown Airport to the Prince Edward Island economy of $366.4 million. This report highlights the direct and indirect jobs supported, the tourism revenue generated, and the overall economic activity facilitated by YYG's operations.
  • Enhanced Digital Presence: We launched a significantly updated website, flyYYG.com. The redesigned platform offers a more user-friendly experience with improved navigation, enhanced flight information, streamlined access to airport services, and engaging content showcasing the region. This update is a key component of our digital marketing strategy to better serve passengers and provide the most relevant information.
  • Community Engagement and Fundraising: Our annual YYG Runway Run in support of Special Olympics PEI (SOPEI) and Just Live was a resounding success, raising $8,000. This popular community event not only promotes healthy activity and pulls back the curtain on operations at YYG but also allows YYG to give back to vital local organizations, fostering strong community relationships.
  • Celebrating Local Culture and Entrepreneurship: We proudly hosted an Indigenous Market at the airport, providing a platform for local Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their crafts and share their culture with travellers and the wider community. This initiative aligns with our commitment to promoting diversity and supporting local economic development.
  • Recognizing Our Team: We celebrated our dedicated workforce and tenants at YYG by participating in the first ever Airport Workers Day. This event provided an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work, commitment, and vital contributions of the individuals who ensure the safe and efficient operation of YYG every day
  • Supporting Women in Aviation: YYG actively participated in initiatives with Elevate Aviation, an organization dedicated to advancing women in the aviation industry. Through partnerships and events, we aim to inspire and support the next generation of female aviation professionals.
  • Fostering Inclusive Travel: We were proud to bring back Autism Aviators, an initiative focused on making air travel more accessible and comfortable for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. This collaboration reflects our commitment to inclusivity and providing a positive experience for all passengers.
  • Investing in Our Community: YYG actively supported 30 charities and organizations throughout the year through sponsorships, in-kind donations, and employee volunteer efforts. This demonstrates our ongoing commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and contributing to the well-being of our community.

  • Showcasing Regional Vibrancy: We actively engaged with the local community by participating in and highlighting key events such as the Greater Charlottetown and Area Chamber of Commerce President’s Luncheon, the East Coast Music Awards (ECMAs) hosted in Charlottetown, and the DiverseCity Multicultural Festival. Our involvement in these events underscores YYG's role as a community hub and a gateway to the region's vibrant culture.
  • Strategic Social Media Engagement: We implemented dynamic social media strategies across platforms to enhance communication with passengers, share airport news and updates, promote community partnerships, and build a strong online community. Our social media presence serves as a valuable tool for real-time communication and engagement.
  • Humanizing the Airport Experience: We launched a successful initiative profiling airport workers across various roles. These features on our social media channels provide a behind-the-scenes look at the dedicated individuals who make YYG function, fostering a greater connection with our tenants and highlight the diverse talent within our airport community.
  • Airline Marketing Campaigns: Collaborating with our airline partners, we launched targeted campaigns to promote new routes, connectivity and travel opportunities, contributing to increased passenger traffic in 2024.

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of our purpose at YYG. In addition to the initiatives above, we were pleased to support numerous organizations and events in 2024, including:

  • Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation
  • Prince County Hospital Foundation
  • Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Summerside Chamber of Commerce
  • Confederation Centre of the Arts
  • Gold Cup Parade
  • PEI International Shellfish Festival
  • Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament in support of Stars for Life
  • My Journey to Just Live
  • CBC’s Feed a Family Campaign
  • Ocean 100 Stuff-A-Bus Food Drive
  • Holland College Tourism & Travel Management Program

These endeavors reflect our unwavering commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment at the YYG, ensuring a positive experience for all travellers and strengthening our ties with the community.

Through these diverse marketing and communication efforts, YYG continues to strengthen its brand, engage with its community, and promote the economic and social value it brings to Prince Edward Island. We remain committed to innovative strategies that enhance our visibility and foster positive relationships with all stakeholders and continue to deliver on our goal of providing an exceptional Island experience for all.

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Autism Aviators 2024
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Industry Women
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Operations

The operations section of this annual report highlights key achievements and ongoing efforts to ensure the safe, efficient, and accessible operation of YYG Charlottetown Airport throughout the reporting period.

Key 2024 Highlights:

  • Enhanced Accessibility: We are pleased to announce the release of our new Accessibility Plan for 2024-2027. This comprehensive plan outlines our commitment to creating a more inclusive and barrier-free environment for all passengers and visitors. The plan addresses various aspects of airport infrastructure and services, ensuring equitable access for individuals with disabilities and to meet Canadian Transportation Agency’s (CTA) accessibility-related regulatory requirements.

 

  • Regulatory Compliance: The Charlottetown Airport had several audits during the calendar year of 2024. YYG is subject to Transport Canada's regular security oversight activities as part of the national aviation security framework. These activities ensure that the airport maintains the necessary security standards and complies with all relevant regulations. The focus of these audits verifies the effectiveness of the security measures and processes in place at YYG.
  • The YYG Connection: As an outcome of the passenger experience audit conducted in 2023, last year we created a new program that all airport employees will receive in person by the Airport Authority – The YYG Connection”. Over the course of the year, we delivered this training to over 150 employees with a goal of encouraging a customer-centric mindset among the YYG team and partners and to emphasize the importance of positive interactions and efficient service. This program is all about living YYG’s brand promise and creating memorable experiences for passenger with a focus on three customer service pillars – knowledge of YYG and PEI, effective communication, and empathy and patience.

 

  • Enhance Passenger Experience Focus: Recognizing the importance of a positive and seamless journey for our passengers and the goals of “The YYG Connection”, we significantly invested in our frontline service capabilities through the hiring of dedicated Passenger Experience Representatives. These individuals are strategically positioned throughout the terminal in our peak season to provide proactive assistance, answer inquiries, offer wayfinding guidance, and ensure a welcoming and supportive environment for all travellers. Their presence has already contributed to positive passenger feedback and a more streamlined airport experience.

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Sustainability

Environment

Throughout 2024, YYG significantly advanced its environmental stewardship through several initiatives and accomplishments, highlighted by:

  • Releasing a new comprehensive Sustainability Plan that embeds sustainability into its long‑term operational framework.
  • Solidifying its commitment to sustainability by renewing its Airport Carbon Accreditation at Level 3 – Optimisation.
  • Implementation of an extensive Stormwater Management Master Plan.
  • Beginning the transition of its fleet to electric vehicles.
  • Ensuring the safe disposal of obsolete firefighting foam.
  • Incorporating renewable energy solutions into its terminal expansion.

These initiatives collectively underscore YYG’s proactive approach to integrating environmental responsibility into every aspect of its operations.

Capital Program

The construction for Phase 1B of our Air Terminal Building (ATB) Expansion Project started in the summer of 2024 and by the end of the year, the external skeleton of the expansion was complete. That period also included the design work for the installation of a new baggage carousel to accommodate the anticipated increase in passenger traffic over the next twenty years.

Phase 1B also includes:

  • An expanded check-in hall to allow for more counters and queuing space.
  • Additional office, storage, and operational space for airlines and ground handlers.
  • Relocation and expansion of the CAA administration offices and some tenants to the second floor.

The entire ATB Expansion Project is expected to cost approximately $43 million and take 4 years to complete from its initiation in 2023.

The project aims to increase capacity, enhance the passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and ensure future readiness. Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with plans to install solar panels on the roof and provisions for electric airside vehicle accommodations.

As you enter the airport property, you will note an exterior makeover for Charlottetown Airport as completed the first phase of the exterior wayfinding and signage program last year. To assist with enhancing the passenger experience, YYG has recognized the importance of efficient signage and wayfinding and has been actively working on upgrades with the exterior works as part of the ongoing terminal expansion.

Below is a summary of the 2024 capital program spend by category.

ATB & CSB Assets $5,264,429
Fleet & Equipment $769,510
Groundside Assets $7,632
Airside Assets $34,210
Recurring Capital $115, 167
Total $6,190,948

Recognizing the importance of maintaining safe operations during winter conditions, we continue to invest in modern and efficient snow removal equipment. In 2024 we expanded our fleet by purchasing an airport grade piece of snow equipment, the ATI Snow Mauler. This acquisition will improve our ability to clear the apron, runways, and taxiways promptly, minimizing disruptions and ensuring reliable airport access for airlines and passengers.

In addition, we replaced several pieces of grass cutting equipment to assist summer operations. We are confident that these investments in our fleet and equipment will significantly enhance the capabilities and long-term sustainability of Charlottetown Airport. We remain committed to continuously evaluating and upgrading our resources to ensure the highest standards of safety and service.

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Community

Human Resources

The past year saw some wonderful career milestone achievements and the opportunity to welcome new and returning members to our team at YYG.

We were very pleased to welcome Cindy Thorn as our Director, Regulatory Affairs (leave replacement) as well as Justin MacDonald and Colby Wilson to our team as seasonal employees during the winter season. In addition, we welcomed back seasonal employees Robert Murchison and David MacAulay.

To help assist our busy terminal during the peak summer of 2024, we were also very fortunate to have Logan Birt, Peyton Milligan, Carson Rose, and Tyra Russell join our team as summer students in the role of Passenger Experience Representative. Our students were a great addition to our team and helped deliver on the exceptional passenger experience that we strive for on a daily basis.

A few other highlights of 2024 included the following employees reaching career milestones: Todd Bannister and Susan Stewart (25 years), Cory Bolger and Mark Newman (15 years), and Shelley Christian and Andrew MacRae (10 years).

We would like to acknowledge the entire YYG team for their dedication and commitment in creating a successful 2024 and helping shape a strong and optimistic outlook as we move forward.

Financial Review

YYG was pleased to welcome record passenger levels in 2024 with overall passenger surpassing 410,000 passengers. This resulted in strong financial results driven by Passenger Facility Fee (PFF), concession, parking and aeronautical revenues with increased interest revenues due mainly to timing of capital expenditures.

The Airport Authority received funding during the year from ACOA through the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund. In addition, property tax grants were provided by the City of Charlottetown and the Province of Prince Edward Island.

We would like to acknowledge and thank our funding partners for their valued support in continuing to help YYG deliver a convenient, modern and sustainable airport that connects people, and supports economic growth in Prince Edward Island.

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2024 Actual vs. Business Plan Forecast

Revenues 15,014,357 14,862,004 (152,353) Record passenger levels drove aeronautical, concession and parking revenues while timing of capital expenditures increased interest revenues.
Expenses 12,062,024 11,025,023 1,037,001 Decreased maintenance, utilities, security services, marketing & communication, professional services, and cost recovery expenditures.
Capital 12,675,358 6,190,948 6,484,410 Deferral of certain terminal expansion costs and other projects to future years.

Business Plan Forecast 2025 – 2029

Revenues 14,558,888 15,007,673 16,025,265 16,616,063 17,246,417
Expenses 12,728,426 13,177,442 14,018,250 14,801,549 15,362,781
Capital 28,841,307 10,141,724 15,091,950 12,111,950 2,900,480

Note: Revenues includes Passenger Facility Fees, operations, subsidies, and investment income.

*In accordance with its lease with Transport Canada, Charlottetown Airport Authority is required to report on all contracts in excess of $139,874 ($75,000 in 1994 dollars adjusted by the Consumer Price Index) entered into during the year which were not awarded on the basis of a public competitive tendering process. In 2024, YYG entered into two sole sourced contracts:

A sole source contract for $190,000 was awarded to Halifax Stanfield International Airport for common use services and equipment ($190,000) – HIAA is the current provider of our common use program, and continued partnership was necessary given the specialized nature of the equipment and services required.

A sole source contract was awarded to Airport Technologies for $545,712 for the purchase of a new plow truck.

Board Governance

Board of Directors

The Charlottetown Airport Authority Board of Directors is composed of 12 directors, nine nominated by the respective entities and three appointed by the board itself, as well as a Corporate Secretary. YYG Charlottetown Airport is very fortunate to have a dedicated group of community leaders and visionaries who consistently put the best interests of the airport at the heart of their discussions.

Directors are appointed/nominated by the following entities:

Government of Canada (2)
Province of Prince Edward Island (1)
City of Charlottetown (2)
City of Summerside (1)
Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities (1)
Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce (1)
Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (1)
Charlottetown Airport Authority (3)

The Airport Authority’s Board of Directors meet six times a year with committee meetings taking place on an ongoing basis. The board has six active committees:

  • Executive
  • Finance & Audit
  • Infrastructure & Development
  • Governance
  • Nominating

All committees are actively involved in airport activities, although the executive committee is convened only when decisions are required on an urgent basis between regularly scheduled board meetings.

*Board of Directors remuneration consisting of honorariums and per diems $70,554.

Code of Conduct for Directors

All directors of the Authority are required to comply with a Code of Conduct and rules concerning Conflict of Interest. These require that directors avoid and refrain from involvement in conflict-of-interest situations. There were no instances of conflict of interest brought before the Board of Directors in 2024.

  • Steve Loggie
    Steve Loggie

    Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.

  • Kathy Hambly
    Kathy Hambly

    Transport Canada

  • Nicole Phillips
    Nicole Phillips

    Transport Canada

  • Augus Orford
    Angus Orford

    Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.

  • Perry Gotell
    Perry Gotell

    Tourism Industry Association of PEI

  • YYG
    Selina Pellerin

    Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.

  • Paul Kiley
    Paul Kiley

    Board Secretary

  • 0D3A0956
    Terry Shea

    City of Summerside

  • 0D3A0963
    Pam Montgomery

    Federation of PEI Municipalities

  • 0D3A0981
    Wendy MacIntyre

    Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce

  • 0D3A9022 (002)
    Khalid Shami

    Province of PEI

  • 8Y3A5614
    John Reddin

    City of Charlottetown

  • 8Y3A5601
    Ramona Doyle

    City of Charlottetown

Team YYG

Management

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Doug Newson
Chief Executive Officer

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Shelley Christian
Vice President, Operations

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Matt Adams
Director, Finance & Administration

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Meghan Senechal
Director, Regulatory Affairs

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Cindy Thorn
Director, Regulatory Affairs

YYG

Lynda Mackay
Director, Infrastructure


*Combined salaries of the senior management team $811,226

Administration

Susan Stewart
Finance Clerk

Amanda Smith
Administration Coordinator

 

Operations

Andrew MacRae
Supervisor, Operations

Chris Walsh
Supervisor, Safety & Security

Danny Walsh
Airport Maintenance Technician

Todd Bannister
Airport Maintenance Technician

Thane MacQuarrie
Airport Maintenance Technician

Cory Bolger
Airport Maintenance Technician

Mark Newman
Airport Maintenance Technician

Guy Belliveau
Airport Maintenance Technician

Stephen MacLean
Airport Maintenance Technician

Anson Grant
Airport Maintenance Technician

Keith Panton
Airport Maintenance Technician

Michael Morrow
Airport Maintenance Technician

Colton Holroyd
Airport Maintenance Technician

Janet Axworthy
Airport Maintenance Technician

Jared Mason
Airport Maintenance Technician

Chris Koughan
Airport Maintenance Technician

Robert Murchison
Seasonal Equipment Operator

David MacAulay
Seasonal Equipment Operator

Colby Wilson
Seasonal  Equipment Operator

Justin MacDonald
Seasonal Equipment Operator

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the Island

Financial Statements

Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.
Financial Statements
December 31, 2024
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