Muskoka Airport - MSC Flight Plan

The District of Muskoka is exploring a new 'Flight Plan' for the Muskoka Airport by proceeding with transition to and implementation of a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) model for the Muskoka Airport. (Report: FCS-13-2023-4)

Currently, staff are proceeding with the following activities:

• Development of a draft business case in respect to the creation and operation of the MSC;
• Development of a draft asset transfer policy as required under Ontario Regulation 599/06; and
• Development of a draft public consultation process.

A Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) could offer more operational flexibility and efficiencies for Muskoka Airport, while maintaining District ownership of the airport lands.

We are consulting with communities and partners this fall - our Flight Path Survey is now open, share your feedback and tell us what matters most to you - let us know your priorities for Muskoka Airport as we evaluate the MSC model.

Why are we exploring an MSC?

Airports operate in competitive environments, and we need to align ourselves for success. As Muskoka continues to grow - we need to ensure the airport remains a strong economic driver for our communities.

An MSC model could enable Muskoka Airport to operate more efficiently, with greater flexibility to seize new opportunities that may not have been possible under the current structure. The airport lands would remain owned by the District, but have the ability to operate more like a business.

An MSC is anticipated to:

• enable faster, more streamlined decision-making;
• offer enhanced ability to attract investment and development;
• reduce reliance on public tax dollars; and
• position the airport for future growth and keep it competitive.

Share your perspectives, we're listening.

We want to hear from you. Our Flight Plan Survey is your opportunity to share your thoughts and perspectives - your feedback will play a critical role as we explore this governance model.

What happens next?

We'll review the feedback we hear through the Survey and our consultations this fall, and apply our learnings to update the Business Case, anticipated to be presented to District Council in early, 2025. Check back for updates, subscribe to updates to your inbox and share your feedback in our Flight Plan Survey to help us plan for the future for Muskoka Airport.

Learn more about the financial and operational considerations supporting the MSC proposal.
The Business Case will be updated following our public consultations to incorporate the feedback and priorities from our community. See the answers to some of the most common questions we've received about the MSC process.