KELOWNA – A record breaking 2,315,432 passengers went through Kelowna International Airport (YLW) in 2025.
Kelowna Airport also reached a record high in monthly passenger volumes in December, 2025, when 220,578 people traveled through the airport. That bested the previous record set in August of 216,480.
“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,” says Sam Samaddar, Kelowna International Airport CEO. “Thank you to our passengers and also the Okanagan community, our business and tourism partners for their continued support.”
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. Porter Airlines will introduce a new Ottawa service operating five times weekly, establishing a direct connection between Kelowna and the nation’s capital.
This announcement of the achievement came a week after the opening of the airport’s Terminal Building expansion,, which expansion doubles the size of the departures area, helps reduce the time it takes to clear security and increases the airport’s food and beverage options.
The expansion also helps position the airport for continued growth to its air service including the ability to host new routes, greater flight frequency and larger aircraft.
These record-breaking passenger numbers highlight the airport’s significant growth and its vital role in increasing connectivity and supporting regional economic development. This achievement is in large part due to increased air service providing access to new destinations, increased frequency and larger aircraft.
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 B.C. and contributed over $2 billion in economic output in 2024.
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