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News Release
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) launched a new solar e-bike hub on June 5, during Go By Bike Week, increasing sustainable transportation options for those who commute to the airport, nearby businesses and surrounding trails.
Located on the airport campus, the solar-powered hub provides lock-up parking and electric charging for up to eight bikes or scooters, along with a bike repair tool station and air pump. It features an onboard battery pack and backup grid connection to support year-round use.
“The project reflects Kelowna International Airport’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and practical improvements that support active transportation and micromobility choices,” said Phillip Elchitz, Director, Operations and Innovation, Kelowna International Airport. “This is one of many steps we are taking, including electrifying our vehicle fleet where operationally feasible, expanding EV charging infrastructure, and investing in energy-efficient buildings and systems.”
Additional environmental initiatives at YLW include the adoption of renewable diesel, automated energy-efficient lighting across buildings and airfield, electrification of air handling units, a geo-exchange field to support heating and cooling, and rooftop solar PV systems.
YLW has significantly reduced emissions from airport-controlled sources over the years and, in 2025, became one of only ten Canadian airports to achieve Level 3 or higher in the global Airport Carbon Accreditation program. The airport continues working toward carbon neutrality of airport-controlled emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions or better by 2040, while extending efforts to work with airlines, ground handlers, tenants and other campus partners to reduce emissions across the broader airport campus.
The new solar e-bike hub supports active commuting and adds to growing active transportation connections near the airport, including access to the Okanagan Rail Trail and nearby bike routes. The City’s bike map shows connections to and from Kelowna International Airport, including rail trail links through the area.
To explore bike routes to and from the Kelowna International Airport, including connections to the Okanagan Rail Trail, visit: cityofkelowna-bikemap.pdf.
Image (L to R): Councillor Gord Lovegrove; Mayor Tom Dyas; Phillip Elchitz, Director, Operations and Innovation, Kelowna International Airport; James Hall, Senior Manager, Operations and Sustainability, Kelowna International Airport
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