NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE — The Niagara District Airport has released a new 20-year master plan that lays out a vision to bring commercial passenger flights to the region and boost Niagara’s tourism and economy.
The 2025-2045 Master Plan, developed through community input, outlines upgrades that could help transform the airport from a general aviation hub into a regional gateway. The plan projects more than $1 billion in economic activity and over seven million passengers throughout its 20-year span.
Proposed improvements include expanding the terminal and parking areas, extending the main runway, and adding facilities for airport security and customs.
“As one of Canada’s top tourism regions, Niagara deserves an airport that makes it convenient for national and international visitors to enjoy our region’s wineries, restaurants, and attractions,” said Greg Wight, chair of the Niagara District Airport Commission. “What makes our Airport’s opportunity unique is the unmatched location. The vision outlined in our Master Plan demonstrates how strategic, sustainable investments in air access to Niagara will boost tourism, strengthen our regional economy, and position the Airport as an indispensable gateway to our region and beyond.”
Located within a short drive of Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, and Niagara Falls, the airport is expected to serve both local residents and the millions of visitors who come to the region each year. The plan envisions handling up to 600,000 passengers annually once the redevelopment is complete.
Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said the document represents a major step forward. “We’re the biggest population in Canada without regular daily scheduled flights,” he said. “This is the road map to get us there.”
St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe said the plan “presents an exciting vision for Niagara’s future” and recognizes the airport’s potential to support local growth. “While there’s still important work ahead to ensure this vision is realized responsibly and sustainably, today marks a meaningful step toward unlocking new opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa of Niagara-on-the-Lake said the town plans to continue working with its regional partners to review the plan. “The Niagara District Airport continues to play a key role in fostering local connectivity and economic growth,” he said. ” The Town is committed to continued collaboration with our municipal partners to review the plan and
identify opportunities that best serve our residents, businesses, and the broader community.”
Mishka Balsom, CEO of the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, said the airport’s development could have a major impact beyond tourism. “Niagara’s tourism sector has become world-class even without a full commercial airport in the region,” she said. “With the developments outlined in the plan, it could become world-leading. The benefits, however, would not be limited to tourism alone – a number of sectors would experience significant growth, creating opportunities that extend across the broader economy and, with that, to the people of Niagara.”
The plan includes feedback from residents, local businesses, and government partners gathered through interviews, public sessions, and an online portal. With the Niagara District Airport Commission’s approval, the next steps include seeking funding, engaging with airline carriers, and continuing community outreach.
A public information session will be held at the airport on November 13 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., where residents and business owners can ask questions and provide feedback. The full master plan and executive summary are available at niagaradistrictairport.ca
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