Montreal Metropolitan Airport: A New Era for Travel in Quebec
Montréal Metropolitan Airport (MET), located in the Saint-Hubert borough of Longueuil, is poised to redefine air travel for the Greater Montreal area. After years of anticipation, the new terminal is set to open its doors on June 15th, offering passengers a modern and convenient gateway to destinations across Canada and beyond. This marks a significant milestone for Canada’s oldest airport, steeped in aviation history.
A Hub for Modern Aviation
Initially, the new facility will be home to Porter Airlines and Pascan Aviation, providing increased flight options for travellers. Officials anticipate the addition of other carriers in the future, solidifying MET’s position as a key regional hub. Yanic Roy, President and CEO of MET, Montréal Metropolitan Airport, emphasizes that the new terminal will “provide more travel options and allow airlines to benefit from increased airport capacity in the region.”
The airport’s vision extends beyond simply adding capacity. MET aims to become a leading centre for direct flights operated by quieter, more fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft, contributing to a more sustainable aviation future. This commitment to efficiency and environmental responsibility is a core tenet of the airport’s development.
Seamless Connectivity and Modern Amenities
Getting to and from the airport will be a breeze thanks to the METbus, an express shuttle service connecting the Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke métro station directly to the airport’s three-lane drop-off area. Inside the 21,000 square metre terminal, passengers will find nine boarding gates and a spacious lounge capable of accommodating up to 900 people.
Construction began in August 2023, and while the original opening date was slated for 2024, careful planning and execution have culminated in the June 15th launch. The airport’s history dates back to 1927, when it served as Montreal’s primary aviation hub before commercial flights were moved to Dorval in 1940 to support the war effort.
Serving a Wider Region
The strategic location of MET is expected to significantly improve access for over three million Quebecers residing in Montreal, the Montérégie region, and the Eastern Townships. This expanded accessibility will boost tourism and economic growth throughout the region.
A Taste of Quebec
The terminal will showcase the best of Quebec’s culinary scene, with retail and dining options exclusively featuring local businesses. Passengers can look forward to enjoying offerings from Baton Rouge, Café Dépôt, and a convenient travel store.
“We’re not just building an airport terminal; we’re redefining how people travel in Montreal,” says Charles Roberge, President and CEO of Terminal YHU. “This project is the result of close collaboration with MET, Aéroport métropolitain de Montréal, and everything has been designed to offer passengers a seamless, efficient and human experience that meets the expectations of today’s travellers.”
Recent Aviation News
While excitement builds for the MET opening, the aviation world has recently seen other significant events. Seneca Polytechnic confirmed that one of the pilots killed in the recent LaGuardia Airport crash was alum Mackenzie Gunther. The incident, involving an Air Canada jet and a fire truck, is under investigation. Audio recordings from air traffic control have surfaced, capturing the moments leading up to the crash. These events underscore the importance of safety and continuous improvement within the aviation industry.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Montreal Metropolitan Airport’s grand opening!
