AIRPORT workers and labour allies will gather at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in Richmond on Saturday, October 31 at 12 p.m., to oppose the potential privatization of Canada’s airports.
Organized by the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees (UCTE), a component of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), the rally will bring together workers and supporters concerned about introducing private investors into airport operations.
Canada’s major airports currently operate under a not-for-profit airport authority model, with revenues reinvested into infrastructure, operations, and services. PSAC-UCTE are raising concerns that a shift toward private investment could place additional pressure on airport fees, working conditions, public accountability, and the long-term interests of travellers and communities.
“Canada’s airports are not bargaining chips, and the workers who keep them running are not an afterthought,” said Barry Tchir, National President of UCTE. “YVR is a vital gateway for British Columbia and the country, built on decades of public investment and the dedication of airport workers. Handing greater control to private investors raises serious questions about higher costs, public accountability, and the future of good jobs.”
As one of Canada’s busiest international gateways, YVR plays a critical role in connecting communities, supporting trade and tourism, and sustaining thousands of jobs. UCTE argues that decisions affecting its future must be made transparently, with meaningful input from the workers and communities.
“Airport workers are not alone in this fight,” said Sharon DeSousa, National President of PSAC. “Across Canada, our members and allies are united in sending a clear message: public infrastructure must serve the public, not become another opportunity for private investors to extract profits.”
PSAC-UCTE are calling on the federal government to provide clear answers about any proposed changes, including the potential impacts on travellers, workers, fees, safety, and public accountability.
