Halifax Stanfield Opens New International Arrivals Area

by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 10:30 AM ET, Tue January 20, 2026

The Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) has opened the completed International Connections Facility (ICF) at Halifax Stanfield, marking the final phase of the project and unveiling a renovated international arrivals area.

The redevelopment incorporates Mi’kmaq art and cultural elements and follows the opening of the facility’s upper level last year. According to a press release, the updated space is intended to improve the international arrivals process while reflecting Nova Scotia’s cultural heritage.

New installations include a 26-foot floor centrepiece designed by Mi’kmaq artist Stephen Francis of Eskasoni, featuring an eight-pointed star associated with the Mi’kmaq districts and the sun. Artwork by Mi’kmaq artist Alan Syliboy of Millbrook is displayed across six pillars, alongside a living plant wall and 14 drums from his Daily Drum collection.

“The construction of the new ICF enabled us to reimagine the international arrivals experience. As a key opportunity to demonstrate the culture and heritage of Nova Scotia to travellers arriving here, we knew it was important to create a strong sense of place that pays tribute to the very first peoples of these lands,” said Dean Bouchard, Vice President, Airport Planning and Development at HIAA.

The ICF is designed to support growth in passenger traffic and cargo handling, while enabling more efficient international-to-domestic connections. The facility also supports border processing operations in coordination with the Canada Border Services Agency.

HIAA said the new facility is part of an infrastructure investment program focused on improving connectivity and operational efficiency at Halifax Stanfield International Airport.

Funding for the project included $8.3 million from Transport Canada and $3 million from the Government of Nova Scotia. HIAA invested more than $6.5 million.

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