At a pivotal moment for global aviation, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) undertook a bold initiative to rethink how it plans, prioritizes, and delivers infrastructure. The Transformative Capital Plan (TCP) was the result—a strategic framework designed to align investment decisions with long-term business objectives, operational resilience, and passenger experience. At the centre of this ambitious effort was Edward Chan, Partner at Zeidler Architecture, who led the planning process with a unique blend of architectural expertise and strategic foresight.

With over two decades of experience delivering high-profile, multi-billion-dollar projects across the mobility, healthcare, and civic sectors, Edward brings a systems-thinking approach to infrastructure planning. His ability to navigate governance structures, stakeholder engagement, and complex operational environments positioned him as a trusted advisor to GTAA leadership. Under his guidance, Zeidler helped move the airport from a fragmented, project-by-project model to a holistic, program-based strategy that now informs Pearson’s long-term investment framework—Pearson LIFT.

In the following conversation, Edward shares how the TCP redefined capital planning at Canada’s largest airport—and what it means for the future of aviation infrastructure.

What made the Transformative Capital Plan such a critical initiative for the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA)?

Pearson Airport is a massive, complex operation. At its core, it’s a business focused on moving people efficiently, safely, and sustainably. The challenge was that capital projects were often planned in isolation, without a cohesive strategy to align them with long-term business objectives. The TCP was a way to change that—it introduced a structured, data-driven approach to prioritizing investments, ensuring that every decision supported the airport’s overall vision.

How did Zeidler’s role go beyond traditional architectural planning?

We weren’t just designing spaces—we were acting as strategic advisors. Working closely with GTAA leadership, we engaged with every business unit, from airside operations to passenger experience to workplace environment. This gave us a 360-degree understanding of how the airport operates, how decisions are made, and what’s needed to create a seamless and resilient future. Our role was to integrate these insights into a framework that allowed GTAA to evaluate and implement projects more effectively.

How did your partnership with Merchant Aviation enhance the planning process?

Partnering with Merchant Aviation, part of the global Groupe ADP network, brought the operator’s perspective, which was invaluable. Their deep understanding of how airports function from both an operational and strategic standpoint allowed us to go beyond traditional infrastructure planning. While we contributed expertise in capital planning and infrastructure strategy, they brought the lens of airport operations and business consultancy. Together we developed a methodology that shifted GTAA from a project-based to a program-based approach—ensuring that capital investments are no longer seen in isolation, but as part of a holistic, future-focused strategy. This was a fundamental shift in how they plan for the future.

What impact has the TCP had on Pearson Airport’s future development?

The impact of this work is already evident. The TCP laid the groundwork for Pearson LIFT, the airport’s long-term investment framework. It gave GTAA the tools to prioritize projects, optimize funding, and ensure that every investment enhances passenger experience, operational efficiency, and sustainability. This project reaffirms the critical role architects play in strategic capital planning. It’s not just about new buildings or expansions—it’s about shaping an adaptable, forward-thinking airport.

What sets Zeidler apart when working on complex projects like this?

We understand the business of aviation and mobility, and we know how to navigate the complexities of large-scale infrastructure projects. Beyond design, we help organizations make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals. Our ability to engage with stakeholders at every level, foster relationships, and integrate multiple streams of information allows us to be more than architects—we are trusted partners in strategic planning. That’s why clients like GTAA, Hines Development, and Block 2 Public Services and Procurement Canada turn to us for leadership on high-profile, multi-billion-dollar projects.