Pearson fees reduced by a significant 10%, marking third year of fee
reductions

TORONTO , Oct. 1 /CNW/ - For the third consecutive year, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has reduced landing fees and terminal charges at Toronto Pearson International Airport. At a time when the aviation industry is struggling with declines in traffic, this reduction will result in estimated savings of $58.4 million to the airline industry at Toronto Pearson next year.

Effective January 1, 2010 , landing fees will be reduced by 10 per cent and terminal charges will be reduced by 10 per cent. These fees are charged to airlines at Toronto Pearson, for the airport authority to cover the cost of operating and maintaining the airport. Cumulatively, since 2007, the GTAA has worked to reduce landing fees by 13.1 per cent and terminal charges by 15 per cent. Between 2007 and 2010, the savings to the airlines is estimated to be $108 million .

"With the 10-year Airport Development Program completed, we have worked hard to reduce our fees to the airlines to ensure that Toronto Pearson remains competitive," noted Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the GTAA. "We are partnering very closely with airlines to increase traffic at Toronto Pearson to ensure that the aviation needs of this community are met. Obviously, the cost of operating will always be a deciding factor for an airline."

The reduction has been made possible as a result of steps taken in February of this year, including reductions in costs in response to the economic downturn and as well the success of the Landing Fee Rebate Program (www.torontolandingfees.com). The GTAA has also been focussed on efficiency of processes and using airport facilities more effectively.

"Air Canada is very appreciative of the GTAA's work on reducing expenses and their willingness to pass along hard won savings to its airline partners. This fee reduction is welcome because it helps us control costs in this challenging economic environment. We look forward to continuing to work cooperatively with the GTAA to find additional efficiencies in order to make Toronto Pearson an even more convenient and efficient hub for our customers," said Duncan Dee , Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Air Canada .

"We applaud the GTAA for taking a leadership role in recognizing the challenges faced by our industry, and thank them for supporting their airline partners," said Dale Tinevez, WestJet Vice President of Guest Services. "By lowering rates and charges for the third consecutive year, the GTAA is doing its part to contribute to the long-term viability of our industry as a whole."

In 2008, 32.3 million passengers travelled through Toronto Pearson, making it Canada's busiest airport.

For further information: GTAA Media Office, [phone]