Halifax Stanfield driving regional growth
A newly released report underscores the pivotal role of Halifax Stanfield International Airport in Nova Scotia’s economy.
That report reveals that the airport generated over $4.2 billion in economic impact in 2023, a 24% increase compared to 2022.
And as one of Atlantic Canada’s most critical pieces of transportation infrastructure, Halifax Stanfield is a key driver of local and regional employment, tourism, trade, and prosperity.
Joyce Carter, President & CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA), observed that: “These impressive economic impact results highlight Halifax Stanfield’s influence in connecting Atlantic Canada to the world, while supporting thousands of local jobs and businesses.”
Carter continued: “Through our strategic growth, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to our community, we are helping to build a future where both our economy and our communities can flourish.”
Prepared for HIAA by Canmac Economics Ltd., the report revealed that over 5,500 people worked on-site at the airport in 2023. While airport activities resulted in 24,534 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to $1.2 billion in total labour income for Nova Scotia, an increase of 20% over the previous year.
Randolph deGooyer, President, Jazz Aviation LP, said that: “As the largest employer within the airport community, we understand the vital role our operations play in driving economic growth and supporting jobs for Nova Scotians.”
He continued: “With over 850 employees, our headquarters, our North American Operations Centre, and our aircraft maintenance and overhaul facility all being based in Halifax reflects our deep commitment to investing in and supporting this community. Together with the leadership at Halifax Stanfield, we’re dedicated to building a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits everyone in the region.”
Passenger traffic rebounded significantly, with 3.6 million travellers served in 2023, injecting an estimated $1.4 billion in tourism spending into Nova Scotia’s economy. Non-resident visitors arriving by air spend more than other types of travellers, with an average expenditure of $1,100 per person.
Commenting on the report’s findings, Kevin Toth, President of Fox Harb’r Resort and Chair of the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, said that: “Access to Nova Scotia is paramount to our success as a tourism destination, and Halifax Stanfield is a critical part of the tourism infrastructure.”
Toth also pointed out that: “As the gateway to the Atlantic region, the airport has enabled Nova Scotia to position itself as a competitive global destination. Fox Harb’r Resort is greatly dependent upon its success in providing air service for our high-value long-haul visitors. We appreciate the efforts in attracting additional routes to allow even more access to these valuable markets.”
With projected growth and recovery continuing into 2025, Halifax Stanfield remains a vital engine for economic prosperity in Atlantic Canada.
Said Carter: “Halifax Stanfield’s economic impact extends beyond just numbers. These figures represent the opportunities and livelihoods that stem from the airport and related industries. We take pride in our role in fostering vital connections, ensuring that every individual, business, and community has the chance to thrive.”
Go to https://halifaxstanfield.ca/business/economic-impact/ for more.
