Winnipeg International: trends point to continued passenger growth

Winnipeg International airport is enjoying a period of solid passenger growth, averaging approximately 6% annual increases from 2015 to 2018. During 2018 the airport handled 4.5 million passengers, which was the highest throughput since 2009.

The airport features a mix of airlines operating various business models now that the ULCCs Flair and Swoop have introduced flights from Winnipeg. And although Flair's capacity at Winnipeg pales in comparison to the airport's largest operator Air Canada and WestJet, the ULCC's entry into the market appears to have changed some of the competitive dynamics.

Winnipeg joins other airports of similar sizes in working to gain more nonstop flights. But the airport's management realises that it is a long game, and they will remain patient in its campaign to attract more service.