Hamilton, ON; April 15, 2025: Today, TradePort International Corporation (TradePort), a wholly owned subsidiary of Vantage Group, announced the appointment of Peter Tong as Chief Executive Officer and Ed Ratuski as Executive Managing Director. These strategic leadership appointments position John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (Hamilton International or Airport) for continued success as the Airport enters a new phase of expansion and innovation.
Peter Tong brings extensive industry experience to Hamilton International, having held leadership positions at Vantage Group since 2018 and serving on TradePort’s Board of Directors for the past three years. His instrumental role in transformative developments at Hamilton International includes securing the new 49-year lease agreement with the City of Hamilton, spearheading the ongoing terminal enhancement project and supporting strategic engagements with the Airport’s airline partners and stakeholders. As Chief Executive Officer, Tong will drive Hamilton International’s strategic initiatives, while maintaining his leadership responsibilities at Vantage Group.
“I am honoured to step into this pivotal role at Hamilton International during this transformative period as we refresh the passenger experience, strengthen our position as a leader in Canada’s cargo sector, and advance Airport land and infrastructure development,” said Tong. “The Airport has established an impressive foundation, and I look forward to collaborating with our talented team to deliver even greater value to our passengers, Airport partners and regional stakeholders.”
Joining Tong on the Airport’s new executive team is Ed Ratuski, who also brings a proven track record of success in the aviation industry having guided numerous airports worldwide successfully through complex redevelopments. Ratuski has been a key member of the Vantage Group for 17 years, excelling in various operational and leadership roles, including positions with Hermes Airports in Cyprus, LaGuardia Terminal B and JFK Terminal 7 in New York and, most recently, as Executive Managing Director of Kamloops Airport in British Columbia. As Executive Managing Director of Hamilton International, he will oversee the day-to-day management and operations of the Airport.
“Hamilton International is well-positioned to continue its role as a leading gateway in Southern Ontario, leveraging the strong catchment area and emerging opportunities for cargo, passenger and land development in the region,” said Ratuski. “I’m excited to collaborate with Peter as CEO, and the entire Hamilton International team as we build on our strengths, elevate the travel experience and support our Airport partners’ continued success.”
Hamilton International also extends its sincere appreciation to Cole Horncastle, the Airport’s outgoing Executive Managing Director, as he transitions to a new role with Vantage Group as Director, Global Advisory Services. Horncastle dedicated more than a decade to Hamilton International and has successfully led the organization to serve as an economic engine, facilitating the efficient movement of people and goods in a strategic transportation corridor.
“We sincerely thank Cole for his dedication and significant contributions to John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. His leadership has been instrumental in our success, and we are thrilled for him as he embarks on this exciting global opportunity with Vantage Group,” said Ron Foxcroft, Chair of the TradePort Board of Directors. “At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Peter and Ed to the team. Their combined experience and expertise across the aviation and airport sectors will be a tremendous asset to Hamilton International, and we look forward to the impact they will have at our Airport and in the broader region.”
Hamilton International recently announced and is currently undergoing a multi-million-dollar terminal enhancement project ahead of launching new daily direct air service with Porter Airlines to Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary and Halifax this June, alongside continued service from existing airline partners, including WestJet, Air Canada Landline and Sunwing. Airport enhancements will include an updated exterior frontage with new and expanded canopies to improve curb operations, and a refresh of terminal interiors from check-in counters and passenger screening areas to gate seating and baggage claim. Integration of architectural elements and finishes inspired by the region’s natural geography will lend the airport a unique sense of place, while new digital signage and lighting upgrades will enhance the overall travel journey. Future enhancements will include passenger jet bridges to connect the terminal directly to aircraft – a first for Hamilton International – and terminal infrastructure upgrades to position the Airport for future expansion to accommodate expected air traffic growth.
###
About John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport
John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport is a growing international gateway for affordable travel and the largest overnight express freight airport in Canada. The Airport is owned by the City of Hamilton and managed under an agreement by TradePort International Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Vantage Group – a global leader in airport and transportation investment, development, management, and advisory services. This allows Hamilton International to incorporate best-in-class practices from around the world into its operations. As an efficient facilitator of cargo and passenger operations, Hamilton International is an economic engine and responsible community partner. Its strategic location and uncongested 24/7 operations make it an attractive option for both passenger and cargo carriers looking to serve the Southern Ontario market. Visit flyhamilton.ca to learn more.
About Vantage Group
Vantage Group is a global leader in airport and transportation investment, development, management, and advisory services. Since 1994, Vantage’s corporate and network-wide team has managed an award-winning portfolio, building strong partnerships that integrate global expertise and local know-how to solve complex transportation challenges at every network location. Over three decades, Vantage has built a track record of creating customized solutions to transform airports and transportation centers that benefit the passengers, stakeholders, and communities they serve. Vantage is a wholly owned strategic platform of Investcorp Corsair Infrastructure Partners for capital deployment in the airport and transportation sectors. Visit vantagegroup.com to learn more.