Porter Airlines joins redevelopment efforts at Montreal's secondary airport

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Porter Airlines joins redevelopment efforts at Montreal's secondary airport

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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

By Sky Industry News

Jan 9, 2025

Travelers heading to Montreal will soon have more options for flights as Montreal Saint Hubert Longueuil Airport undergoes significant renovations. The airport, now known as Montreal Metropolitan Airport, is receiving a new terminal and name change. This development aims to offer an alternative to the high airfares and limited choices currently experienced at Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL).

Porter Airlines has already committed to operating from the revamped Montreal Metropolitan Airport (YHU). As noted by Flytrippers, Montreal is one of the few major North American cities without a secondary airport, alongside Atlanta.

The redevelopment project is a collaboration between Montreal Metropolitan Airport, Porter Airlines, and the Canada Infrastructure Bank, with an investment of CA $200 million ($140 million). Construction of the new facilities is approximately 70% complete, with completion expected in late 2025.

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Once operational, Porter Airlines plans to serve over ten destinations across Canada from YHU. Currently, Pascan Aviation is the sole operator at the airport, providing regional flights within Quebec and New Brunswick.

Montreal Metropolitan Airport expects to launch 25 new routes across Canada upon reopening. While it may not be as close to downtown as Toronto Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ), YHU plans to offer an express shuttle service to central Montreal.

The new terminal will cover 225,000 square feet with nine gates and various retail stores and restaurants. The airport anticipates accommodating up to four million passengers annually once fully operational. It remains uncertain whether other Canadian carriers like Air Canada or WestJet will operate at YHU.

Porter Airlines has expanded significantly since being grounded during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the delivery of Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, Porter has become a leading airline in Canada. Its expansion into western markets has caught the attention of competitors such as Air Canada and WestJet.