The Ottawa International Airport Authority says it was boosted in 2016 by more passengers – and hungrier ones, to boot – as it reported its annual results earlier this week.
Passenger volumes surpassed 4.7 million this past year, an increase of almost two per cent year-over-year. Domestic travel led this growth, with nearly 3.7 million travelling across Canada through the capital, an increase of 5.5 per cent.
Revenues were $121.9 million in 2016, an increase of 3.1 per cent. The airport authority says this was driven by increased concessions revenue (food and drink sales) as well as the increased passenger volume.
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The year was highlighted by the completion of a $60-million baggage handling system upgrade and negotiations with private transport companies such as Uber for airport pickup and drop-off services.
“Positive revenues, prudent spending and continued leadership have positioned us well for future growth,” said Ottawa International Airport Authority President and CEO Mark Laroche in a statement.
Mr. Laroche mentioned Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations as an anticipated boost in 2017. A release also pointed to the inclusion of the Ottawa airport in stage two of the city’s LRT project as an encouraging sign for the future.