News release

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers can now get a fast charge at Kelowna International Airport, as well as 10 other strategic locations across the Okanagan and Kootenays, as FortisBC adds 12 new Direct Current Fast Charge (DCFC) stations to its EV charging network with the help of Natural Resources Canada and community partners. 

Today, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) celebrated the arrival of ultra-low-cost carrier Swoop and its inaugural non-stop flight between YLW and Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG).

Service to Winnipeg marks the first of two destinations with Swoop operating out of YLW. Next month, Swoop will launch twice-weekly non-stop service from YLW to McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is pleased to announce new service to Las Vegas!

Swoop will provide non-stop service from YLW to McCarran International Airport (LAS), starting June 27, 2019. Flights will operate Thursdays and Sundays until October 24, 2019.

“We are excited to announce a second destination with Swoop,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “We’ve heard from the community that they want more non-stop destinations from Kelowna. We’re pleased to have Swoop offer non-stop service to Las Vegas, which is the Okanagan’s single largest US market for travel.”

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is anticipating another busy spring break, with more than 100,000 passengers expected over the next three weeks. Passengers are advised to plan in advance and prepare for longer than normal wait times at the airport to reduce travel-related stress.

YLW anticipates increased, but steady traffic flow from March 15 through April 1. 

To help make your travel experience as easy as possible:

Consider alternate transportation to the airport

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is hosting its annual Spring Travel Show Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Guests can meet with airlines, travel agents, hotels and resorts to get helpful travel tips and information on popular destinations.

“This year, we have a fantastic lineup of new airlines and participants attending our travel show,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “With over $10,000 in prizes to be won, there’s no better time to attend to learn about the destinations available to the community.”

Today, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) announced it has reached an agreement with ultra-low-cost-carrier Canada Jetlines Ltd. to operate out of Kelowna.

“We’re excited to welcome a new airline to the community,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “Adding another ultra-low-cost-carrier to YLW will give residents more flight options, and visitors more opportunities to experience all that the Okanagan has to offer.”

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is pleased to announce ultra-low-cost-carrier Swoop will begin service in spring 2019.

Swoop will provide non-stop service from YLW to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG) three times per week, starting on May 24, 2019.

“We are excited to welcome Swoop to YLW,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “Having an ultra-low-cost-carrier in Kelowna is a great opportunity for the Okanagan as it provides more options for travellers.”

Kelowna International Airport becomes 10th busiest airport in Canada

Today, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) released its final passenger numbers for 2018, with figures showing airport travel reaching an all-time high at YLW. In 2018, passengers totalled a record-breaking 2,080,372, a 31 per cent increase or more than 486,700 passengers over the last three years—becoming the 10th busiest airport in Canada.

Today, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) welcomed its record-setting two-millionth annual passenger to travel through the terminal in 2018. Since 2015, YLW has experienced unprecedented passenger growth, which can be attributed to population growth in the region and expanded air service and flight connectivity.

Kelowna, BC – On Sunday, November 18, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) and Kelowna International Airport (YLW) will be hosting their second annual YLW Accessibility Tour for families living with autism. Held from 2:00-4:30 pm in the YLW WestJet check-in area, over 70 individuals are expected at the event.

Due to anxiety or sensory sensitivities, air travel can present significant challenges for individuals with autism. The tour will take families through the entire pre-flight process, including check-in, security, finding their gate and boarding a plane.