10-Year Collab Will See Telus Deploy ‘Cutting-Edge’ 5G Connectivity Throughout YYC Campus

TELUS and the YYC Calgary Airport Authority this week revealed a long-term partnership.

The collaboration will see YYC become Canada’s first airport equipped with a high-performance 5G private wireless network offering enterprise-grade connectivity throughout the airport campus.

This first-of-its-kind deployment will create a cutting-edge wireless foundation, according to a statement from the firms, “enhancing the passenger experience and streamlining airport operations while preparing for future technological innovations.”

“We’re proud to partner with TELUS to pioneer this innovative network solution for Canadian air transportation,” stated Megan Gupton, Chief Information Officer at YYC Calgary Airport Authority. “With accelerated digitalization and the need for modernization of our network, this infrastructure will enhance the travel experience for passengers now and allow us to scale up more effectively to meet future demand.”

“Fixed connections and Wi-Fi alone won’t be enough,” the CIO posits. “The latest generation of private 5G networks are necessary to unlock greater productivity, resilience, and sustainability.”

The solution maximizes TELUS’ existing airport infrastructure while introducing new coverage enhancements both inside and outside the terminal, ensuring wireless coverage for all airport users, according to Navin Arora, who serves as President of TELUS Business Solutions.

“By implementing the country’s first airport-wide private wireless network, we’re not just enhancing current operations—we’re creating a platform for continuous innovation that will elevate the travel experience and operational efficiency for years to come,” stated Arora. “This collaboration sets a new standard for smart infrastructure in Canada and reinforces our position as a global leader in building world-class networks.”

The private wireless network will be deployed in phases, with initial operations beginning in May.

Telus employs 140,000 people who serve more than 20 million customers which generate over $20 billion in annual revenue.

The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta, which is responsible for the management and development of YYC and Springbank.

“At YYC, we’re focused on the future of travel,” Gupton said.