Reaction from the field
Montreal Metropolitan Airport, formerly known as Saint-Hubert Airport, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation that promises to enhance travel options for the community. Starting June 15, 2026, Porter Airlines will launch a dozen new routes from the airport, a move that is expected to significantly increase passenger traffic and connectivity for Montreal residents.
The new terminal, covering an impressive 21,000 square metres, will feature nine boarding bridges and is designed to accommodate the operations of both Porter Airlines and Pascan Aviation. With a capacity to handle four million passengers each year, this expansion marks a pivotal moment for the airport, which has served as a vital transportation hub since its opening in 1927.
Porter Airlines has made a substantial investment of over $400 million in the terminal, underscoring its commitment to the Montreal community. The terminal will not only facilitate flights connecting Canadian destinations from coast to coast but will also incorporate contemporary design elements that pay homage to the historic visit of the R-100 airship in 1930. This blend of modernity and history is expected to create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
Michael Deluce, a representative from Porter Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “I refer to this as Billy Bishop on steroids.” This colorful remark highlights the ambitious nature of the expansion and the potential it holds for enhancing the travel experience in Montreal.
In addition to the new routes and terminal, the airport will offer a total of 138 flights per week, providing residents with a variety of options for both leisure and business travel. The waiting lounge will be equipped with 900 seats, ensuring that passengers have a comfortable space to relax before their flights.
Charles Roberge, a spokesperson for YHU Infrastructure Partners, emphasized the importance of a multi-airport system, stating, “We believe in a multi-airport system.” This approach aims to distribute air traffic more evenly across the region, alleviating congestion at other airports and making travel more accessible for everyone.
As the community looks forward to these developments, there remains a sense of anticipation about how this expansion will reshape the local travel landscape. Details remain unconfirmed regarding additional routes or services that may be introduced as the project progresses.
With the expansion of Montreal Metropolitan Airport, the local community can expect not only increased travel options but also a boost to the economy as more visitors are drawn to the region. The future looks bright for this historic airport as it steps into a new era of aviation.
