Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced plans to open the operation of Canada’s four largest airports in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver to private investment under long-term concession agreements. The proposed model would see the federal government retain ownership of airport land and assets while private investors assume responsibility for airport operations for a set period.

Speaking recently with The Canadian Press, Karen Hennessey, a partner in Gowling WLG’s Corporate Group, noted that the proposed shift will likely require legislative changes given Canada’s existing airport operating framework.

“The crux of it is going to be what are the expectations for the investor or the concessionaire around the investment required, service levels, making sure there's performance, safety and other public interest considerations,” said Karen.

To read the full article, which was syndicated by CBC and numerous other outlets across the country, click the link below:

Karen was also featured on Newstalk 580’s The Morning Rush, where she spoke about what a privatized airport model might look like.

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