Summer Setbacks Hit Passenger Numbers

Charlottetown Airport saw a notable decline in passenger traffic this summer, with numbers down 16 per cent in August and eight per cent overall so far in 2025. After two consecutive record-breaking years, the airport experienced a slowdown that industry officials attribute to a combination of airline schedule changes and labor disruptions.

Airline Strikes Disrupt Travel

A key factor behind the decline was a three-day Air Canada flight attendants strike in August. The work stoppage, resolved on Aug. 19 with the intervention of a federal mediator, led to four days without flights at Charlottetown, affecting roughly 40 scheduled flights and 6,500 seats. Doug Newson, CEO of the Charlottetown Airport Authority, emphasized the impact: “When we lose a carrier like that for four days in peak summer, it’s going to have an impact.”

Seasonal Flight Reductions Impact Capacity

Beyond labor disruptions, the reduction in seasonal flights also contributed to lower passenger volumes. Flair Airlines cut its Kitchener-Waterloo service while maintaining Toronto flights, and WestJet reduced Toronto services compared to last year. Although Porter Airlines added some flights, it was not enough to offset the reductions. Overall seat capacity at the airport is down by 10 per cent for 2025.

Passenger Experience and Airline Performance

Despite the decline in total traffic, Newson noted positive signs for passenger experience and airline efficiency. Average passengers per flight have increased across carriers, and airlines expressed satisfaction with current performance. “The good news is the airlines are all happy with what they are providing, and we may see additional capacity next summer,” he said.

Long-Term Growth Plans Continue

The airport remains optimistic about its long-term trajectory. A terminal expansion project is underway, aimed at increasing capacity to accommodate growing demand. The project is expected to be completed by 2027, ensuring Charlottetown Airport is prepared for future surges in passenger traffic.

Historical Context Highlights Resilience

Last year, Charlottetown Airport handled 410,773 passengers, a two per cent increase over 2023’s previous record. While 2025 has seen a temporary decline, the airport continues to position itself as a key travel hub for Prince Edward Island and eastern Canada, adapting to both operational challenges and seasonal fluctuations in service.

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Major Clean Energy Investment for PEI

Charlottetown is set to host a new $180-million waste-to-energy facility that will process nearly 90 per cent of Prince Edward Island’s black-bin garbage. The project, led by Enwave Energy Corporation with support from the Canadian Infrastructure Bank, the Province of PEI, and the City of Charlottetown, is scheduled to open in 2028.

Location and Capacity

The plant will be built on the site of the existing P.E.I. Energy Systems facility on Riverside Drive. Once complete, it is expected to double the capacity of the current plant, which now processes about 42 per cent of black-bin waste from Charlottetown and surrounding areas.

Purpose and Benefits

The expansion will significantly cut down on the province’s landfill use while providing more clean energy for homes, businesses, and institutions. Currently, Charlottetown’s district energy system heats 145 buildings, including Queen Elizabeth Hospital and City Hall. The new facility will improve system efficiency and lower carbon emissions, according to Enwave CEO Carlyle Coutinho.

Stakeholders and Support

Enwave Energy is spearheading the initiative, with financing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, which loaned the company $600 million for projects nationwide. Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown praised the project as good news for both the city and the province, citing its potential to reduce landfill waste while expanding renewable energy use.

Construction and Timeline

Construction is expected to begin late 2025 or early 2026, depending on weather conditions, and will take about three years to complete. The new facility will go into full operation in 2028. The current 42-year-old plant will be decommissioned but retained for potential future energy projects, ensuring space remains available for biomass and other renewable initiatives.

Broader Impact

The project is seen as a landmark for sustainable growth on the Island. Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Cory said the investment aligns with the Crown corporation’s mandate to support initiatives that deliver both financial returns and public benefits, such as cleaner air, reduced landfill use, and reliable, low-cost energy for Islanders.

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The post $180M Waste-to-Energy Plant to Open in Charlottetown by 2028 first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Developers Push Back Against New Official Plan

A group of developers is calling for a meeting with P.E.I. Housing, Land and Communities Minister Steven Myers before he signs off on Charlottetown’s newly adopted official plan. They argue that the plan’s restrictive measures could hinder downtown growth and investment.

Long-Awaited Plan Faces Industry Resistance

The updated official plan, approved by Charlottetown City Council last week, marks the first major revision since 1999. It sets the framework for land use, development, and density within city limits. While city officials emphasize a balance between growth and heritage preservation, several developers say the plan tightens regulations and leaves little room for economic expansion in the downtown core.

Key Developer Voices Concerns on Density

Tim Banks, CEO of APM MacLean, a leading construction and property development firm, voiced significant concerns over the plan’s direction. “This new official plan tightens restrictions without mentioning growth,” said Banks. “We’re being shut out by a restrictive set of bylaws.”

Banks pointed to the city’s historic 500-lot area as an example, noting that one of his downtown projects took nearly five years to complete due to regulatory hurdles—something he believes could have been done in under two.

Height Restrictions a Sticking Point

Banks advocates for taller buildings in urban areas, especially in land-constrained cities like Charlottetown. “We live on a little island. If we want to grow, we have to go up,” he said. He criticized the plan for failing to support vertical growth, which he believes is essential for addressing housing demand and sustaining economic development.

Mixed Public Feedback on Housing Types

A recent city survey showed that 72% of respondents support increased housing, with secondary dwellings being the preferred option. However, Banks argued that such solutions don’t suit the 500-lot area due to limited space. “Density comes from building up, not from backyard garden suites,” he said.

City Aims to Balance Growth and Heritage

In response to the concerns, Deputy Mayor Alanna Jankov emphasized the city’s goal of achieving long-term sustainable growth while preserving the historic character of downtown Charlottetown. “A vibrant city centre that supports housing diversity and accessibility is at the heart of our new Official Plan,” she said in a written statement.

The city is currently accepting public feedback on proposed zoning and development bylaw amendments, which could refine aspects of the plan.

Minister to Hear Developers Before Decision

A spokesperson for the Department of Housing, Land and Communities confirmed that Minister Myers has agreed to meet with the developers. The meeting will offer them a chance to raise concerns before the minister formally approves the plan.

The outcome of that meeting may determine whether Charlottetown’s official plan moves forward as-is or undergoes further revision to accommodate economic and development pressures.

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Festival Launches at Charlottetown Waterfront

The 2025 DiverseCity Festival began its vibrant summer run on Sunday, June 22, with a colourful celebration at Charlottetown’s bustling waterfront. Hosted by the Immigrant and Refugee Services Association (IRSA), the festival drew large crowds eager to experience food, music, and performances from a range of cultural communities.

Island-Wide Cultural Celebration Planned

This year’s DiverseCity Festival features seven community events across Prince Edward Island. Following the Charlottetown launch, the next stop is scheduled for Alberton. Each event aims to foster inclusion and cultural pride among newcomers and long-time Islanders alike.

Organizers Highlight Cultural Exchange

Dean Constable, executive director of IRSA and co-host of Sunday’s event, emphasized the collaborative and welcoming spirit of the festival.
“We’ve got performers from all sorts of cultural backgrounds,” he said. “Some are newcomers, some are long-time residents collaborating on cross-cultural performances. It’s a true celebration of community and diversity.”

Young Performer Shares Heritage Through Dance

Among the many performances, 17-year-old Lotte Zhang captivated audiences with a traditional Chinese dragon dance. Performing fifth in a group of nine dancers, Zhang described the experience as both exhilarating and meaningful.
“It’s like an experience I’ve never really had before,” Zhang shared. “We each hold part of the dragon and follow the lead. It’s about teamwork—and sharing our heritage.”

A Platform for Cultural Expression

Zhang expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his roots alongside others from different backgrounds.
“I think it’s great that we get so much diversity here,” he said. “Everyone gets to show off their own culture, and we all learn something new.”

Community Impact and Continued Engagement

The DiverseCity Festival is part of Prince Edward Island’s growing commitment to multicultural inclusion. By spotlighting newcomer voices and long-established traditions, organizers hope to strengthen social ties across communities throughout the summer.

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