KELOWNA – The numbers are in and they’re even better than expected! Kelowna International Airport (YLW) served 1,732,113 passengers in 2016, an increase of 8.7 per cent since last year. That represents nearly 140,000 additional travellers!
December proved to be YLW’s busiest month ever, with 166,537 passengers, surpassing the record-breaking month of August.
“This is great news not only for YLW, but also the entire region,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “The increase in passenger traffic means an increase in tourism, a boost to the regional economy and additional support for our local businesses.”
Nearly every month in 2016 saw tremendous growth, ranging from 4-17 per cent.
“The reason for the increase is in large part due to the launch of new routes and airlines, along with increased capacity on current popular destinations,” said Samaddar. “The Okanagan’s status as a four-season destination doesn’t hurt either, with world-class skiing, wineries and agri-tourism drawing travellers to the region, especially with the weakened Canadian dollar.”
The growth is expected to continue this year by about 3%, as highlighted in YLW’s Master Plan 2045.