John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) celebrated a successful year in its 2023 Year in Review report. Notably, passenger volumes hit near pre-pandemic levels for the year.
The report also spotlights operational achievements, infrastructure investments, and community initiatives undertaken throughout the year.
It also emphasizes the airport’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leadership across its operations.
A Crucial Link in Canada’s Supply Chain
Hamilton International kicked off 2023 with a significant investment. Transport Canada’s National Trade Corridors Fund provided a multi-million-dollar contribution towards the two-year Gateway Expansion and Sustainability Project (Project).
This joint initiative, co-funded by TradePort International Corporation (TradePort), the airport operator, totals $46.9 million.
The Project will boost cargo capacity and enhance the movement of goods by strengthening, expanding, and rehabilitating crucial airport infrastructure.
Hamilton International maintained its position as a vital link in Canada’s supply chain. It is country’s largest domestic overnight express cargo airport and the third-largest by payload.
Notably, it facilitated the movement of a staggering 746 million kilograms of cargo in 2023.
Passenger Traffic Nears Pre-Pandemic Levels
Passenger traffic also witnessed a positive trend in 2023. With a total of 820,011 passengers traveling through the airport, Hamilton International nearly reached pre-pandemic passenger volumes.
PLAY, a low-cost Icelandic carrier, further bolstered passenger options by launching its first and only Canadian service in June.
This new partnership offers direct flights to PLAY’s hub in Reykjavik and convenient connections to over 30 destinations across Europe, including Amsterdam, Dublin, Copenhagen, London, and Paris.
Investing in People and Community
Hamilton International prioritizes fostering a positive work environment for its employees and inspiring future generations of aviation professionals.
Initiatives include mental health first-aid training for staff, cooperative education programs, and experiential learning partnerships. The airport additionally supports its employees by providing scholarships and bursaries.
Beyond its workforce, Hamilton International actively participates in the community. In 2023, the airport contributed over $90,000 in financial and in-kind resources to local organizations.
This commitment to community involvement extends to employee engagement through sponsorships, donations, and initiatives promoting a strong “Sense of Place.”
Environmental, Social, and Governance Practices
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leadership remains a cornerstone of Hamilton International’s operations.
The airport made significant strides towards its net-zero goal by completing a Decarbonization Assessment and an Investment Grade/Net-Zero Energy Audit.
These studies inform the airport’s 2024-2030 strategy for achieving environmental sustainability. Additionally, operational efficiencies implemented in 2023 aimed to reduce fuel consumption, and enhance waste management.
The airport prioritized employee well-being, and continued with investments in the local community.
Summary: A Year of Collaboration and Success
“I am immensely proud of the work we accomplished at Hamilton International this past year,” remarked Cole Horncastle, Executive Managing Director of Hamilton International.
“These achievements are a direct result of the dedication and collaboration between our employees, airport tenants, and community partners.”
Horncastle continued, “This annual report reflects the ongoing commitment of TradePort and Vantage Airport Group to fulfill the vision established for the airport in 1996.”
“Together with our partners, we are building an airport that offers attractive flight options for passengers.”
“It strengthens our position as a vital transportation hub for Canada’s cargo movement, and serves as a critical economic driver for the City of Hamilton and the surrounding region.”
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!
