Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon, speaking at an Edmonton Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, advocated for the privatization of airports across Canada. He also hinted at a significant boost for CFB Edmonton, suggesting an entire squadron could be based there.
Airport Privatization and Cargo Hub
MacKinnon was in Edmonton to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new international cargo hub at Edmonton International Airport. The 2,000-acre project is expected to create 250 airport jobs and 800 construction jobs, further solidifying Edmonton's status as Canada's largest airport by physical size.
“We’re at the start of the process and really understanding what these asset profiles are,” MacKinnon said. “I don’t think it’s any secret in terms of volumes, how airports stack up in the country. So, we’re going to take them one by one.”
Defence Assets and CFB Edmonton
MacKinnon announced that more defence assets would likely be placed in Edmonton. “The Edmonton airport will, in turn, play an important role in the Canadian Armed Forces going forward,” he said. “I think an entire squadron will be based there. That means maintenance, that means hangars, that means people in uniforms, that means people in logistics and other kinds of roles who will be added to the complement of what’s already an important part of the Canadian Armed Forces. It doesn’t exist without supportive and supporting infrastructure. So it all feeds on each other.”
Port of Vancouver and Trade
MacKinnon emphasized the importance of the Port of Vancouver to Alberta's trade strategy, calling it “sadly underbuilt for this day and age.” He pledged to modernize the port and increase representation from the Prairie provinces on its board. He also stressed the need to end labour disruptions, urging unions and management to negotiate in good faith and avoid last-minute strikes that erode international confidence in Canada.
Nation-Building and Unity
MacKinnon's speech touched on themes of national unity, especially in light of a potential Alberta separation referendum. He highlighted Alberta's role in the Canadian economy and called for a nation-building strategy reminiscent of the Last Spike. “We have built an incredible, incredible country. Some of the best health care in the world. Some of the best institutions in the world. Canada is an amazing place,” he said. “There is nothing that can hold us back.”
He quoted New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick: “Everyone has a job.” MacKinnon added, “We have a job together, and that is building and building Canada’s economy.” He concluded by saying that Ottawa and Alberta are “Sharing goals, sharing hopes, sharing aspirations.”
