John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday (Nov. 24) with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new multi-use Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) facility. Biddle Carson Developments’ transformational construction plans were unveiled at the event. It was attended by industry partners, community stakeholders, City of Hamilton Economic Development Director Norm Schleehahn and staff, and Councillors Mark Tadeson and Esther Pauls.
The $15 million project is expected to generate at least 45 jobs and be completed in the first quarter of 2026. The 100,000-square-foot facility will feature three state-of-the-art hangars at the airport’s northeast end. These hangars will offer a range of premium services, including a lounge, conference room, and a second-floor observation deck for viewing aircraft arrivals and departures. The facility will have direct access to the airfield via Hamilton International’s newest taxiway, Taxiway Foxtrot, and road access through the recently constructed Aviation Drive.
Biddle Carson Developments has already secured two tenants for the hangar space. Private aircraft charter company FlyXcite will occupy 30,000 square feet, while bespoke helicopter and fixed-wing completion specialists Aerofina Aviation will take up 20,000 square feet. The third hangar, spanning 50,000 square feet, will likely be available for occupancy upon project completion.
“We are delighted to welcome Biddle Carson Developments, and both FlyXcite and Aerofina Aviation, as they take flight at one of Canada’s premier airports for development, Hamilton International,” said Cole Horncastle, the airport’s Executive Managing Director. “This second development less than one year since opening the Northeast Airport Development underscores how Hamilton International is providing solutions for partners looking for high-quality commercial space and positions Hamilton International as a continued driver of investment, innovation, and business growth in the City of Hamilton.”
Brooke Hayward, Chief Operating Officer of 214 Carson Co. Inc., expressed excitement about the project. “Our desire to invest in the Hamilton Region will enhance the accessibility and convenience of air travel, as well as provide our aviation partners with a world-class facility and ultimate amenities,” Hayward said.
Scott Biddle, Co-President of Biddle Carson Developments, highlighted the project’s significance. “The new Hamilton Airport FBO is a significant milestone for Biddle Carson Developments, showcasing our commitment to building quality infrastructure that fuels local growth,” Biddle stated. “We’re excited about how this facility will position Hamilton as a key destination in Canada’s aviation landscape, making travel smoother for both business and leisure travellers.”
The new FBO is expected to boost operations at Hamilton International and the local economy by creating highly skilled jobs, attracting complementary aviation-related operations, and enhancing tourism with increased passenger traffic.
This development continues a trend of significant projects at the airport over the past four years, including Cargojet in 2021, KF Aerospace in 2022, and Latitude Aeromedical in 2023. John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, owned by the City of Hamilton and managed by TradePort International Corporation, is a growing international gateway for affordable travel and Canada’s largest overnight express freight airport. Its strategic location and 24/7 operations make it an attractive option for both passenger and cargo carriers serving the Southern Ontario market.