Ontario International Airport secures new agreement to drive growth and strengthen airline partnerships
Posted: 29 July 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Ontario International Airport finalises a modern Use and Lease Agreement, ensuring financial stability, boosting capital projects, and fostering stronger collaboration with airline partners.


Credit: Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Southern California’s Ontario International Airport (ONT) is set for growth and sustainability after the Ontario International Airport Authority approved a new 132-page Use and Lease Agreement replacing the 1999 version.
“This agreement represents years of work and thoughtful negotiation, and we’re proud of the result,” said Alan D. Wapner, President of the OIAA Board of Commissioners. “It gives our airport a solid financial framework to continue its remarkable growth while preserving the collaborative spirit that has made ONT a success story in Southern California aviation.”
The new ULA provides greater transparency in how funds are used at ONT and locks in 75% of ground transportation revenue for participating airlines. For OIAA, it allows added flexibility to advance needed capital projects in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Negotiated over the past years with significant input from airline stakeholders, the agreement balances financial sustainability with mutual growth and investment.
“This agreement is more than just a contract, it’s a reflection of the strong partnerships we’ve built with our airline partners and our shared commitment to grow together in a way that benefits our travelers, our region, and our industry,” said Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the OIAA. “It also speaks to the financial stewardship behind the scenes and our CFO, Celeste Heinonen was instrumental in ensuring this deal brought clarity, flexibility, and long-term value as we continue delivering a world-class airport experience.”
The agreement takes effect immediately.
“It’s a win for our partners, our passengers and the communities we serve,” Wapner said.
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Airlines, Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM), Airport development, Airport leadership, Funding and finance, Non-aeronautical revenue, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Regulation and Legislation, Workforce