Canadian North to get new cargo facility at Ottawa airport

The federal government is making up to $11 million available for the construction of a new cargo facility for Canadian North on the grounds of Ottawa International Airport.

The funding comes under the National Trade Corridors Fund. Canadian North, which is Inuit-owned, will be matching the investment, bringing the total combined funding for this project up to $22 million.

The warehouse will help reduce delays in cargo-handling capacity and increase connectivity between different modes of transportation at the airport. The project will expand the truck loading area, where queues have created congestion in the past. In total, this project will also double the capacity for Canadian North in Ottawa.

The facility will adopt environmentally friendly technologies and expand energy-efficient refrigeration and freezing areas to reduce waste and preserve essential goods destined for the Canadian Arctic. The facility will also have a backup power system to ensure service continuity during severe weather events.

Construction is set to begin soon with the facility slated to be fully operational by 2026.

“When we talk about cargo, we’re talking about essentials and things that make a difference,” said Matieu Plamondon, Canadian North’s vice-president for cargo and airport services. “Our expanded Ottawa facility lets us do more for our Arctic communities. From high-quality, expedited grocery deliveries to timely arrivals of cherished packages, we’re committed to enhancing the product we offer.”

Serving as an integral gateway for Inuit communities, the new facility represents Canadian North’s commitment to expanding services in the Arctic. By doubling its size, the new facility will unify various sites and use the latest tracking tools to ensure vital items like food and medication get delivered on time. This bigger facility will help local businesses grow, meet the rising needs of online shopping, and make sure food supplies remain stable even as the weather changes.

“Growing demand from Canada’s remote and northern communities highlights the essential role of cargo in supporting the Inuit communities and ensuring food security,” said Michael Rodyniuk, president and CEO of Canadian North. “Through a joint investment of $22 million, Canadian North’s new cargo facility will double its capacity in Ottawa by 2026, strengthening the vital connections between the North and the rest of Canada.”

Canadian North Airlines serves 25 communities within the Northwest Territories, Nunavik and Nunavut, as well as Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton – with a fleet of Boeing 737, ATR 42 and ATR 72 freighter aircraft. It is wholly owned by Makivik Corporation and Inuvialuit Development Corporation.