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Kelowna International Airport (Image Credit: City of Kelowna)
By Vernon Matters staff
continued growth

YLW sets new passenger record

Feb 7, 2026 | 7:00 AM

Another year and another record for Kelowna International Airport.

It welcomed 2,315,432 passengers in 2025.

In a media release issued Friday, YLW said it also reached a record high for monthly passenger volumes with over 220,578 travelling through the airport in December 2025, surpassing the previous record set in August.

Officials said these record-breaking numbers highlight the airport’s significant growth and its vital role in increasing connectivity and supporting regional economic development.

In 2025, seat capacity at YLW increased by more than 15 per cent compared to 2024. Canadian routes experienced 12 per cent growth, seats to Mexico rose by 37 per cent, and U.S. service continued to increase. For 2026, overall capacity is expected to remain stable, with modest increases projected for Canada and Mexico.

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In 2025, YLW offered over 80 daily non-stop commercial flights to 23 destinations and over 200 connecting destinations, with eight airlines. Kelowna International Airport operates as the ninth busiest airport in Canada and second busiest airport in British Columbia and contributed over $2 billion in economic output in 2024.

by Vernon Matters staff
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