Statement by Chairman of the Board of GTAA: Vijay Kanwar

TORONTO, Jan. 15, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, Vijay Kanwar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), announced that steps will be taken to ensure the disruptions at Toronto Pearson last week are thoroughly reviewed in order to improve operations and service to the travelling public.

The Board has struck an ad hoc committee to study the events and recommendations made by the review being conducted by Management. The ad hoc committee will have access to external, independent industry experts to assist them in their deliberations. The committee will conclude its work within 90 days and the findings will be shared with the public.

"We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience passengers have experienced" Mr. Kanwar stated. "The findings of the ad hoc committee will help ensure that when faced with extreme weather conditions in the future, we can, and will, do better."

"The Board of the GTAA has a responsibility to the travelling public and this community.  We understand that Toronto Pearson is a tremendous economic engine for the Region and for our country. The safety of our employees, passengers and the public is always our top priority and based upon information to date the decision to implement a North American ground stop was carefully considered and reviewed with our partners and was the best option available. The Board of Directors is committed to the review of airport operations announced today and is committed to taking action based on the findings of the review" said Mr. Kanwar.

Management will lead a systematic and inclusive review of winter operations at Toronto Pearson, which will include the following components:

1. Internal GTAA debriefs to develop an action list of improvements, both immediate and longer term;
2. Debriefs with other airport personnel including air carriers, ground handlers, NavCanada, fuel companies and other parties;
3. Meetings with senior executives from those same groups to examine issues contributing to the North American ground stop;
4. Engagement with the public, travellers and airport employees; and,
5. Airports Council International (ACI) will name an international expert panel to assess Management's review.

President and CEO Howard Eng will be providing operational updates on Management's review when appropriate.

SOURCE: Greater Toronto Airports Authority

GTAA Media Office [phone]