OTTAWA — The Canadian Airports Council (CAC) has a new permanent president at its helm.

Monette Pasher , who was named interim president on Jan. 24, 2022 while the CAC conducted a nationwide search for a permanent leader, will begin her new role on Aug. 1, 2022. She brings with her 20 years of executive leadership experience in government and media relations, strategic planning, aviation and tourism marketing.

Prior to her new role, she served as executive director of the Atlantic Canada Airports Association where she helped raise the profile of Atlantic Canada’s airport community, built strong relationships with federal and provincial government officials and Canadian air carriers, and successfully supported its members throughout the pandemic.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Canadian Airports Council permanently,” says Pasher. “The past few months have been especially challenging for our industry and air travellers, and I look forward to working with our airports and all partners in the air transportation system as we improve processes for Canadian travellers.”

Her appointment was announced by the Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), the trade association representing commercial airports in Canada and the United States. The CAC is the Canadian division of ACI-NA, comprising 58 members that represent more than 100 airports across Canada.

“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and recovery has brought about unprecedented challenges for Canada’s aviation sector,” said Kevin M. Burke, president and CEO of ACI-NA. “Canadian airports have led through these turbulent times with their heads held high but obstacles still remain as recovery in air travel begins to take hold across Canada. Monette will be a strong addition to lead our Ottawa team as we navigate our path forward.”

RJ Steenstra, chair of the CAC and president and CEO of Fort McMurray International Airport, added: “Monette is an exemplary leader with a strong track record leading member organizations, navigating Ottawa, and building effective relationships across Canada’s aviation sector. I am excited to have a proven leader with extensive knowledge of the Canadian airport industry join us as we navigate through a challenging restart to air travel and plan for the future of our industry.”