Québec City airport enters new strategic cycle after return to profitability and passenger growth

Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) has reported a year of encouraging growth and renewed momentum, marked by a return to profitability, increased flight offerings, and strong passenger satisfaction.

Details on Québec City Airport’s growth 

In 2024, YQB welcomed 1,737,803 passengers, a 2.9% increase year-over-year, reaching 97.14% of pre-pandemic traffic. The airport achieved a net income of $3.6 million, with EBITDA totalling $34.6 million.

President and CEO Stéphane Poirier said: “In 2024, we strengthened our presence as never before, and we are very proud of the trajectory we are now on. We generated surpluses that will be reinvested in our development, which means we are finally starting to regain the momentum we had before the pandemic.”

Route expansion included increased capacity and frequency to Toronto, Calgary, Chicago, Charlotte, Tulum, and Paris. Commercial offerings were also enhanced, with the launch of Spectrum and a new concept from Nourcy Café Traiteur.

Passenger satisfaction remains high, averaging 9.1 out of 10. Over the year, YQB carried out 78 infrastructure projects aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and the travel experience. Seasonal parking expansions and a shuttle service were introduced, and the airport’s online platform, décollezdequebec.ca, was upgraded to help travellers find flights more easily.

YQB also saw a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2016, underlining its sustainability efforts. More than 1,000 citizens and 30 economic stakeholders contributed to its 2025–2030 strategic plan, which focuses on sustainability, agility, awareness, and financial strength.

Chair of the Board André Boulanger added: “We will stay deeply anchored in our community, visible in our market, and responsive to the needs of our employees, passengers, partners, and stakeholders.”

Mr Poirier concluded: “This plan reflects our commitment to remaining attentive to the passengers who choose us and to the community.”

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