Montreal Metropolitan Airport (MET) Launches YHU Terminal, Sending First Passengers to Vancouver with Porter Airlines

June 17, 2026 Team Contributor

A new chapter in Greater Montreal’s aviation story began this morning as the MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport officially welcomed its first passengers, marking the start of commercial operations at the YHU Terminal.

Built to reduce pressure on existing airport infrastructure and handle single-aisle aircraft, the new facility is designed as a more traveller-friendly option. The main focus is on smoother journeys, greater comfort, and easy access across Canadian cities.

The milestone was marked in classic aviation style on June 15, 2026, as Porter Airlines’ first flight to Vancouver was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute. The terminal, run by YHU Infrastructure Partners, which is a joint venture between Porter Aviation Holdings and Macquarie Asset Management, is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of Canada’s aviation landscape.

A People-Backed Vision Comes to Life

As per a recent CNW report, Simon-Pierre Diamond, Interim President of Montreal Metropolitan Airport, said, “This new terminal is the result of a collaborative effort involving citizens and elected officials—an effort that began long before the groundbreaking ceremony. And today, we are proud to see that 80% of the population on Montreal’s South Shore supports the MET project.”

The opening event was attended by Quebec Tourism Minister Amélie Dionne and Longueuil Mayor Catherine Fournier. It reflected years of joint effort, bringing together Canadian government leaders, the YHU teams, industry partners, and the local community.

Why YHU Terminal Matters for Canadians & Global Travellers

For passengers, Montreal Metropolitan Airport’s YHU terminal is set to bring a more streamlined international and domestic flying experience. Travellers can expect:

Simpler journeys with less congestion than larger hubs

Expanded route options, including 11 new Porter Airlines routes

Better regional connectivity through partnerships with Pascan Aviation

Convenient access to major Canadian cities and Quebec regions

The airport’s notable development also reflects community priorities, with regulated operating hours, a ban on overnight flights, and infrastructure improvements aimed at easing traffic.

How MET’s New Terminal Can Boost Tourism and Regional Growth

The new YHU Terminal launch isn’t just about making travel easier at the airport. It’s also expected to give a meaningful lift to tourism, support business travel, and contribute to Quebec’s wider economic growth.

From a traveller’s perspective, this means more choice, improved reliability, and potentially smoother travel experiences, whether flying for work or leisure.

The MET Airport–Vancouver debut reflects Porter Airlines’ growing focus on linking key Canadian cities, complementing earlier moves such as its Ottawa to Kelowna service.