YLW closes in on 1.9 million passengers in 2017!

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) served 1,893,470 passengers in 2017, an increase of 9.3 per cent since the previous year. This increase represents over 161,000 additional travellers!

August became YLW’s busiest month ever with 179,153 passengers passing through the doors, followed closely by December with 177,131 passengers.

“These numbers certainly exceed our projections,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “Its great news. The increase in travellers translates directly to a boost to the regional economy, with an increase in tourism and support for local businesses.”

Every month in 2017 saw record breaking numbers, ranging from 2-22 per cent.

“This year we saw remarkable growth in our capacity, with increases to route frequency, upgauging of aircraft and the addition of a new airline,” said Samaddar. “We’ve also been working hard with our tourism partners across the globe to promote YLW as a four-season destination.”

To accommodate this exceptional growth, YLW is actively working on a new development program, as highlighted in the airport’s Master Plan 2045.

For more information on Kelowna International Airport, visit ylw.kelowna.ca.