Letter from the Kelowna International Airport Director on June 9, 2020:
Good afternoon,
I want to start by taking the time to recognize those who work in the tourism and travel industries. Whether you work in a hotel or a restaurant, are helping connect visitors to experiences throughout the region or for an airline or at the airport — your contributions to the tourism sector help strengthen the local economy and enrich the quality of life for residents across the Okanagan. I also want to extend a thank you to the frontline and administration staff who are continuing to work to keep the airport open during these difficult times.
Much like many businesses in the Okanagan and in the tourism sector, YLW was hit hard by the ongoing global COVID-19 health crisis and we will be one of the last sectors to fully recover. In April and May, our passenger numbers dropped by 96 per cent, and while we expect it will take several years for YLW and other airports across Canada to recover, we’re getting ready now so we can welcome travellers back when the time comes.
As always, the safety of employees, passengers and the greater community is our top priority. We know you have questions about air travel and what the future may look like. The situation with COVID-19 is evolving, but this is what we know right now:
Air service at YLW
The airport remains open and is operating for domestic travel. In June and July, Central Mountain Air, Flair Airlines and Pacific Coastal Airlines will resume operations at YLW to Victoria, Prince George, Calgary and Edmonton. As provinces slowly start to reopen, we hope to see additional destinations and increased frequency on these routes as airlines adjust their networks and schedules. For more information on flight schedules and to book, please contact the airline directly.
Health checks and masks
The Government of Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada have implemented new requirements for air travellers to limit the spread of COVID-19:
Be ready for travel
As masks or face coverings are mandatory during portions of your journey, we are encouraging all travellers to make or purchase a mask or face covering and bring it with them to the airport. Masks may be available for purchase at YLW; however, supplies may be limited. We are working diligently to keep masks, hand sanitizer and wipes in stock for travellers who wish to purchase these items in the Terminal.
Passengers are advised to check-in for their flight before coming to the airport to limit the number of contact points in the Terminal. Please arrive 90 minutes prior to boarding a domestic flight.
The Long-Term parking lot remains closed until further notice; however, the Short-Term parking lot remains open and long-term parking rates will apply.
Safety measures
When you arrive at YLW, you may notice some changes in the Terminal. We’ve implemented several safety measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
Restarting tourism and travel
As Canada begins implementing plans to slowly and methodically reopen the economy, Canada’s tourism and travel sector is working to develop a coordinated restart plan. This process will involve working closely with Transport Canada, Canada Border Services Agency, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) and the Public Health Agency of Canada to establish clear and consistent health standards and protocols. We recognize that a balanced and coordinated approach is necessary to protect the public as we battle COVID-19.
We know many of you are contemplating travel this summer, but are uncertain about quarantine rules, border restrictions, travel advisories, and what the rules are for airports, hotels and on airplanes. We are committed to providing clear guidance to travellers and keeping you informed of changes that impact travel at YLW. For information and updates, visit ylw.kelowna.ca or our Twitter page for updates.
We can't wait to welcome you back to YLW when it's time to explore the world again.
Wishing you health and safe travels.
Sam Samaddar
Airport Director
Kelowna International Airport