Kelowna International Airport (YLW) continues to see impressive growth in passenger numbers and has a new ranking as the 9th busiest airport in Canada based on 2024 passenger volumes.
In the first quarter of 2025 YLW saw continued growth with a 10.4 per cent increase in passenger volume compared to the first quarter of 2024.
“We are thrilled to share that YLW has achieved the ranking of the 9th busiest airport in 2024. The significant increase in passenger traffic and our new ranking highlights YLW’s vital role in connecting people and fostering economic growth. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, the ever-growing confidence of our passengers in our services, and the continued support of our industry and community partners.”
– Sam Samaddar, Chief Executive Officer, Kelowna International Airport
This summer, YLW has increased seat capacity scheduled for July and August. Domestic seat capacity is up 18% compared to 2024 and, with year-round daily service to Seattle with Alaska Airlines, the network capacity is up 20 per cent.
Monthly breakdown of passenger volumes :
|
2024
|
2025
|
% change
|
|
|
January
|
175,238
|
197,630
|
+12.8% (compared to January 2024)
|
|
February
|
176,300
|
191,204
|
+8.8% (compared to February 2024)
|
|
March
|
184,833
|
203,251
|
+10% (compared to March 2024)
|
|
Total for Q1
|
536,371
|
592,085
|
+10.4% (year to date comparison)
|
