Breastfeeding facilities upgraded at Ontario Airport

Upgrade to Ontario Airport's nursing facilities to support parents who are breastfeeding. Credit: Ontario International Airport

In honour of National Breastfeeding Month, Ontario International Airport (ONT) has announced a comprehensive upgrade to its nursing facilities in partnership with UCR Health. Building on the modernised nursing stations first launched in 2022, the improved spaces now feature expanded interiors, refreshed furnishings and enhanced amenities designed to provide greater comfort and privacy for nursing parents.

Why has Ontario Airport done this? 

“We are committed to ensuring that all travellers, especially mothers, are welcomed in a safe, accessible and nurturing environment,” said Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “These upgraded nursing stations reflect our continued dedication to family-friendly travel, and there is no better time than National Breastfeeding Month to amplify our support for breastfeeding mothers.”

Breastfeeding is recognised as one of the most powerful early investments in a child’s health. “Research shows that exclusively breastfed infants have a 36% lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome and mothers reduce their risk of breast cancer by up to 27%,” said Dr Brenda Ross-Shelton, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at UCR Health. “This is why UCR Health is thrilled to be designated as the first milk depot of UC Health Milk Bank and proud sponsor of Ontario International Airport’s nursing rooms, providing ongoing education and awareness to parents across the region.”

The key upgrades include:

• A new nursing station in Terminal 4 and improved space use in Terminal 2, offering greater privacy and comfort.

• Modern décor with softer lighting, ergonomic seating and calming design elements to create a relaxing environment.

• Functional enhancements such as televisions, internet connectivity, additional charging outlets, improved changing surfaces and accessible shelving for essentials.

• Inclusive accessibility, with all facilities fully compliant with ADA standards and the California Building Code, ensuring comfort and ease of use for all families.

These latest improvements build upon the foundation established in 2022, when ONT and UCR Health introduced modernised nursing stations to provide private, welcoming spaces for mothers to nurse or pump while travelling.

National Breastfeeding Month highlights the importance of offering dedicated, safe spaces for breastfeeding in public settings. ONT’s upgraded nursing rooms stand as a testament to this commitment, providing travellers with dignity, convenience and comfort.

This upgrade follows a trend among airports looking to improve inclusiveness for passengers to enhance their travel experience, such as Edmonton International Airport’s recent Safe Room, marking United Nations World Day against Trafficking. 

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