YLW receives millions in federal funding
News Release
Kelowna International Airport is receiving over $18 million in funding for key infrastructure projects and operational support. YLW welcomes the announcement from the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, and the Minister of International Development and the Minister for Pacific Economic Development Canada, the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, that the federal government is providing $15.2 million funding from Transport
Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support infrastructure projects:
- Combined Operations Building
- Airport Terminal Building Roof Replacement
- Airport Biosecurity Infrastructure
- Runway End Safety Area
- Airfield Lighting and Support Infrastructure
Along with the announcement for the critical infrastructure projects, the Government of Canada is also providing more than $3 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund. This will provide funding to maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Kelowna and surrounding communities.
“We are very appreciative to receive this funding from the federal government as it will be critical in the recovery and future growth of YLW,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “Investing in this airport infrastructure now is essential for our long-term growth plan. As a regional economic hub, the capacity of YLW is vital to support flights to move people and goods throughout the Okanagan region and beyond.”
The aviation sector is essential for Canada’s post-pandemic recovery of revenue generation for local businesses, maintaining and creating jobs for residents, and encouraging investment in the local community. The Okanagan is a land-locked region, making air access even more vital to aid in the movement of goods and services.
“For 75 years, YLW has played a critical role in supporting the economic development of our region and airport investments like this will help ensure future growth,” said Kelowna Mayor Basran. “City partnership with other levels of government is necessary to stimulate the economic recovery from COVID-19.”