New GTTA head unveiled at AGM
The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) introduced its new president and chief executive officer to the public yesterday. Barely a month into his new job as head of Canada's largest airport, Howard Eng presided over his first annual general meeting of the GTAA. He heard from Brian Gabel, the GTAA's vice-president and chief financial officer, who reported total revenues of $1.1 billion for 2011. The numbers indicate the aviation industry is recovering in the aftermath of the 2008-09 recession. Last year, Pearson International Airport handled a record 33.4 million passengers, up from 31.9 million in 2010. Overall, the GTAA recorded a net loss of $17.1 million, compared to a net loss of $27 million in 2010. The 2011 figures include a one-time debt retirement charge of $27.6 million. Eng, 59, succeeds Lloyd McCoomb, who stepped down after nearly two decades with the GTAA. During his tenure he oversaw the $4.5 billion re-invention of Pearson. Eng returns to Canada after having worked at Hong Kong International Airport since 1995, where he served as executive director of airport operations.
Prior to that, he worked as vice-president of operations at Edmonton International Airport as well as with Transport Canada and the Edmonton Airport Authority. "To be given the chance to … lead Canada's flagship airport is an exceptional career opportunity," he said. "A successful airport in Toronto benefits the surrounding community and the businesses of Ontario and all across Canada that depend on a strong aviation system." Eng noted that connecting passengers account for 27 per cent of traffic at Pearson, and said he wants to raise that number significantly. A $406.8 million enhancement to Terminal 3 will make the airport more attractive as a hub. It isn't possible for the GTAA to hold a public meeting without having to field complaints about noise and night flights from nearby residents - and Eng's first as CEO one was no exception. He was frank when he revealed that Pearson had sought permission from Transport Canada for a 10 per cent increase in night flights. That, however, would mean only three or four extra flights each night, he said.
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