Sunwest Aviation

Western Hospitality

LocationCalgary, AB
Completion2013
Size16,140 m2
ClientSunwest

Sunwest Aviation's main terminal in Calgary is designed to bring calm, warmth, and clarity to a fast-moving environment for everyone who passes through.

The Sunwest Aviation facility at YYC brings together aircraft maintenance, passenger services, and flight operations in a space shaped around people. From the first steps into the terminal to the movement of aircraft across the apron, the building is designed to feel clear, calm, and welcoming, supporting travellers, flight crews, and the teams who keep Sunwest in the air.

Sunwest’s needs were immediate and complex. A fast-tracked schedule, a closely managed budget, and multiple user groups required a design team that could respond quickly and collaboratively. Working through progressive tendering and rigorous cost oversight, GEC led a series of value-driven reviews and tight consultant coordination sessions to keep decisions focused and the project moving at pace.

The design reflects that careful, people-first approach. Passenger lounges offer daylight, comfort, and options, providing spaces to focus, connect, or simply rest before boarding. Behind the scenes, the hangars and support areas are planned around the safe, efficient movement of fuelled aircraft, supported by systems that adapt to both busy peaks and quieter cycles. Site simulations and apron planning shaped a facility that works smoothly for staff, from turnaround operations to everyday maintenance routines.

Delivered on time and on budget, the project supports Sunwest’s commitment to service and care. It gives teams a reliable, intuitive place to work and offers travellers a warm, seamless start to their journey. The facility stands as a clear example of GEC’s approach to aviation environments, designing with empathy, technical insight, and a steady focus on the people who rely on these spaces every day.

"Sunwest's operations had been scattered over a number of different buildings ... the new 170,000-square-foot facility brings administration, departure lounges, maintenance shop and hangars together in one location right alongside the airport runways, making for a very efficient process."

- David Parker, Calgary Herald, October 2013