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Photo Credit: KelownaNow
The year 2015 marks a breakthrough record for the Kelowna International airport. Not only will airport development not require our taxation dollars, but the airport is expected to see a growth of 2.5 million passengers by 2025. By the end of 2014, YLW handled 1.6 million passengers.
“Exceeding our forecasted 1.6 million passenger mark one year ahead of schedule is quite remarkable,” said Airport Director Sam Samaddar. “If you look back at our numbers 2007 to 2011, we stayed within the 1.3 million range and by 2012 we grew to a passenger count of 1.4 million. After reaching 1.5 in 2013 we were ecstatic to break through the 1.6 million milestone. It may not be long before we start talking about approaching two million travellers. This is pretty incredible.”
YLW will see a number of expansions and improvements this year including upgraded software, a new rescue vehicle, and terminal building developments.
Although airport upgrades are expected to cost $44,877, 000, a total of $44,234,000 will be derived from reserve funds and $643,000 will come from federal and provincial funds.
“Reaching the 1.6 million passenger mark is not only an accomplishment, but an enormous economic benefit,” explained Robert Fine Director of Economic Development for the Central Okanagan Regional District. “Air service has become a key part of the Okanagan story – with new routes added to San Francisco, Fort McMurry, Cranbrook, and Trail we become more easily accessible for investors, workforce, tourists and technology firms. Each million passengers adds one per cent to the gross domestic product of the Region, and creates a competitive advantage as we continue to be the best air served community of its size in Canada.”
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