QSA's Week in Aviation (#9, 2025)
Canada launches new airport investment policy; First air transport deal with Ghana; Telesat campus to create jobs; CBSA tips for March Break; Weekly aircraft movement data.

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news for the airline and airports industry, as well as pilots and other aviation-professionals.
Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.
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Start Date: 2025-03-01
End Date: 2025-03-08
Top Headlines
Main Stories
Canada's New Policy on Airport Investment
On March 7, 2025, Transport Canada released a policy statement aimed at attracting private investment into the National Airports System (NAS). This move intends to enhance infrastructure and improve passenger services. The policy outlines opportunities for investors, including subleases and subcontracts, and emphasizes potential involvement from pension funds. The government plans to negotiate lease extensions to facilitate private development on airport lands, aiming to ensure sustainable growth and operational flexibility.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca, Announcements: www.canada.ca
Weekly Aircraft Movement Data Released
Statistics Canada released data on aircraft movements for the week of February 15 to 21, 2025. This dataset provides insights into aviation activity trends, which can be crucial for industry stakeholders in planning and resource allocation.
Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca
Canada-Ghana Air Transport Agreement
The Canadian government, on March 5, 2025, announced its first air transport agreement with Ghana. The agreement allows multiple airlines from both nations to operate scheduled services, with a capacity of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly cargo flights each. This initiative aims to expand flight options and foster economic opportunities between the two countries.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Telesat Lightspeed Campus to Boost Jobs
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada announced the construction of a $25 million Telesat campus in Gatineau, Quebec. This facility, part of the $6.5 billion Telesat Lightspeed initiative, will create 300 jobs and support satellite communications. The project is backed by a $2.14 billion federal loan and a $400 million provincial loan, aiming to enhance Canada's position in the space economy and improve connectivity, particularly in remote areas.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
CBSA's March Break Travel Tips
With March Break approaching, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) advises travelers on efficient border crossing. Tips include checking wait times, avoiding restricted goods, and ensuring proper documentation. The CBSA highlights the importance of declaring all items and warns against carrying firearms and prohibited items, ensuring smooth entry into Canada.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Important Updates
Secondary Stories
CBSA Firearm Seizure Leads to U.S. Traveller's Conviction
A U.S. citizen was convicted in Alberta for smuggling a loaded handgun into Canada, resulting in an $8,000 fine and a 10-year firearm prohibition.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
What We're Reading This Week
- Celebrating Women in Aviation Industry: Global News explores efforts to attract more women into aviation.
- All About Airplanes: Aviation Experts Answer Kids’ Questions: CBC Kids News features insights from aviation experts.
- GTF2025: Building Global Supply Chain Resilience: The Globe and Mail discusses supply chain opportunities in aviation.