PAHI, Macquarie team up for Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport’s new terminal

Porter Aviation Holdings Inc. (PAHI) and Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) announced a partnership to develop the new passenger terminal at Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport (YHU). A joint venture company, YHU Infrastructure Partners (Québec) LP, is being formed to lead the project, with local management operating the facility upon completion.

PCL, Canada’s largest contracting organization, has been selected as the general contractor for the terminal. Construction work is set to commence in August, with a mid-2025 completion target.

“Macquarie and PCL are well-positioned as partners to develop a state-of-the-art passenger terminal at Saint-Hubert,” commented Michael Deluce, President and CEO, Porter Aviation Holdings.

Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport to see new terminal from PAHI-Macquarie partnership. Photo courtesy of CNW Group/Porter Aviation Holdings Inc.

Macquarie Asset Management, the world’s largest infrastructure manager, adds YHU to its portfolio of global airport investments, which include Mariscal Sucre International Airport, El Dorado International Airport, and North Queensland and Perth Airports among others. Karl Kuchel, CEO of Macquarie Infrastructure Partners, expressed excitement over the new venture in the Montréal region.

The planned passenger terminal will cover 21,000 sq.m., featuring nine bridged aircraft gates, lounge-style seating, food and beverage concessions, and retail vendors. It is expected to operate fully on electric power.

PCL brings a wealth of aviation sector expertise, having executed over $18.9 billion worth of airport facility work across North America. Sébastien Tremblay, Vice President and District Manager for Construction PCL in Québec, emphasized their excitement and commitment to the project.

The YHU terminal project is inspired by the successful revitalization of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The new terminal promises faster passenger processing times and a comfortable departure lounge environment. Yanic Roy, CEO of Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport YHU, praised the initiative for its potential to significantly improve the regional air service.

Porter Aviation Holdings will serve as an anchor tenant at the new terminal, with routes operated throughout Canada using De Havilland Dash 8-400 and Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. Other airlines are also expected to use the terminal, providing more options for Greater Montréal travellers.