Kelowna International Airport set a new passenger record in 2025, welcoming more than 2.3 million travellers, the busiest year in the airport’s history.
The airport also recorded its busiest month on record in December 2025, when more than 220,578 passengers travelled through YLW, surpassing the previous monthly high of 216,480, set in August 2025.
Airport officials say the growth reflects strong demand for air travel to and from the Okanagan, driven by expanded air service, increased flight frequency and the introduction of larger aircraft.
“Setting a new passenger record is a reflection of the strong demand for air travel to and from the Okanagan, as well as the confidence and trust that our passengers have in us as an airport,” said Sam Samaddar, chief executive officer of Kelowna International Airport.
Seat capacity at YLW increased by more than 15 per cent in 2025 compared with the previous year. Canadian routes saw 12 per cent growth, while seats to Mexico rose by 37 per cent. U.S. service also continued to expand.
For 2026, overall capacity is expected to remain relatively stable, with modest increases planned for Canada and Mexico. Porter Airlines is scheduled to launch a new five-times-weekly service to Ottawa, providing a direct connection between Kelowna and the nation’s capital.
The passenger milestone comes just one week after the opening of a major terminal building expansion. The project doubles the size of the departures area, is expected to reduce security screening times and adds new food and beverage options. Airport officials say the expansion positions the airport for continued growth, including additional routes, increased flight frequency and larger aircraft.
In 2025, Kelowna International Airport offered more than 80 daily non-stop commercial flights to 23 destinations, with connections to more than 200 additional destinations through eight airlines.
YLW is the ninth busiest airport in Canada and the second busiest in British Columbia, contributing more than $2 billion in economic output in 2024.
