Porter Airlines Soars with Hamilton Tiger-Cats in Landmark Partnership
Porter Airlines and Hamilton Tiger-Cats Forge Long-Term Partnership to Enhance Fan Experience and Regional Connectivity In a landmark announcement that strengthens both regional connectivity and community engagement, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Porter Airlines have unveiled a new long-term partnership. The agreement designates Porter Airlines as the Official Airline of the Tiger-Cats, positioning the carrier at the heart of one of Canada’s most passionate sports communities and reinforcing its strategic commitment to the Greater Hamilton Area and John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.
This partnership is more than a corporate alignment — it is a full-scale collaboration aimed at enhancing the fan experience, supporting the team’s travel needs, and amplifying Porter’s presence in southern Ontario. The airline’s investment represents a major step in expanding its footprint in the region, at a time when Hamilton is evolving into a key travel hub for both leisure and business.
Elevating Travel and Game-Day Experiences
As the Tiger-Cats’ official airline partner, Porter will be responsible for transporting the team to all away games throughout the 2025 CFL season. Leveraging the accessibility and efficiency of Hamilton International Airport, the airline will provide seamless and comfortable travel for players and staff — aligning with its reputation for refined service and reliability.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Porter Airlines to the Tiger-Cats family and look forward to flying Porter throughout the season,” said Matt Afinec, President & Chief Operating Officer of Hamilton Sports Group. “Porter’s investment in our team, our fans, and our city reflects their commitment to the region. With their continued expansion at Hamilton International Airport, they’re bringing thousands of Canadians to our community every week. This long-term partnership will further deepen their local connection and create outstanding new fan experiences at Hamilton Stadium.”
Through this collaboration, the game-day experience is being reimagined — not only in the stadium but starting from the runway. Fans will benefit from curated travel opportunities, elevated stadium features, and a series of immersive brand activations that blend sport, entertainment, and travel.
A Stronger Presence in Hamilton
Porter Airlines has been expanding steadily across Canada, and Hamilton has become a critical piece of its growth strategy. The carrier recently launched non-stop flights from Hamilton International Airport to several key destinations, including Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, and Vancouver. These routes not only provide increased travel convenience for local residents but also offer Tiger-Cats fans new opportunities to follow their team on the road and explore iconic Canadian football cities.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to Hamilton and the community. We’re excited to connect with some of the most passionate fans in sports,” said Edmond Eldebs, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Porter Airlines. “We can’t think of a better organization to kick off our relationship with the city and look forward to bringing Porter’s unique charm to the Tiger-Cats experience.”
Key Features of the Partnership
The multi-year agreement is packed with initiatives designed to boost visibility for Porter and bring added value to Tiger-Cats fans. From exclusive travel packages to new stadium features, the partnership encompasses several impactful components:
1. Tiger-Cats Jersey Branding
Porter Airlines will feature prominently on all official Tiger-Cats jerseys — including home, away, and alternate kits. The shoulder patch branding ensures year-round visibility on national broadcasts, in-stadium, and across team merchandise, symbolizing the airline’s direct connection to the club’s identity.
2. Behind-the-Scenes Content Series
Launching this season is a brand-new digital documentary series, co-produced by the Tiger-Cats and Porter. This original content will give fans unprecedented access to behind-the-scenes moments with the team — from practice sessions and locker room insights to travel stories and off-field narratives. By offering an insider look, the series aims to deepen the emotional connection between the team and its supporters.
3. The Porter Hangar — Opening in 2026
A signature addition to the stadium experience will be The Porter Hangar — a premium hospitality zone set to debut in 2026 in the north endzone of Hamilton Stadium. Inspired by Porter’s award-winning onboard service, the space will feature elevated sightlines, premium finishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere. This new venue will serve as a stylish hub for fans seeking a high-touch, immersive game-day experience.
4. Fan-Focused Programs and Perks
To further engage supporters, the partnership includes an array of fan-centric initiatives:
- Porter Fan Flights: Opportunities for select fans to fly with the team to away games.
- VIPorter Benefits: Special rewards and mileage perks for Ticats supporters enrolled in Porter’s loyalty program.
- Travel Packages: Customized travel experiences built around CFL games and destinations.
- Digital Contests: Social media campaigns and giveaways that provide unforgettable experiences for lucky winners.
5. Porter-Branded Premium Entry Gate
Porter will also receive exclusive naming rights to the Club & Suite Gate located on Melrose Avenue — the main stadium entrance for premium ticket holders. This branding aligns with the airline’s upscale reputation and provides high-impact visibility among corporate guests and VIP attendees.
6. In-Stadium and Broadcast Visibility
The Porter brand will be integrated throughout Hamilton Stadium via digital displays and strategically placed signage that will be visible both to those attending games and viewers watching from home. These media assets provide strong brand amplification on both local and national scales.
7. Community Outreach Initiative
Beyond travel and sport, the partnership will have a meaningful impact on the local community. Porter and the Tiger-Cats will co-launch a youth outreach program focused on health, wellness, and personal development. Featuring appearances by Tiger-Cats players, the initiative will include events, mentorship sessions, and physical activity programming targeted at empowering youth throughout the Greater Hamilton area.
Building a Stronger Hamilton Through Partnership
This collaboration between Porter Airlines and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats represents a strategic convergence of shared values — community, innovation, excellence, and care. For Porter, the partnership is an opportunity to deepen its presence in a fast-growing transportation corridor. For the Tiger-Cats, it’s a way to enhance the team’s infrastructure, provide more meaningful fan experiences, and amplify the club’s cultural and civic significance.
As the CFL season unfolds and the airport terminal buzzes with increased activity, this partnership promises to make Hamilton more connected, more engaged, and more vibrant than ever before.
With new flights, new fans, and new opportunities on the horizon, Porter Airlines and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are set to take flight — together.