Airline service is essential to connect travellers with our destination. Tourism Kelowna works with the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) to support its activities and market to travellers in destinations within and beyond Canada. Below, you'll find a round-up of some recent news from YLW.
Service to Seattle Returns & Expands
Photo credit: Darren Hull Photography
This summer, Alaska Airlines announced the return of its year-round service between Kelowna (YLW) and Seattle (SEA) as of December 19, 2024.
Before this, WestJet had also announced new daily service between YLW and SEA starting in January 2025.
“As we continue to strengthen our service across Western Canada, we are proud to connect Kelowna with new daily WestJet service to Seattle as part of our expanded winter schedule,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.
Uber Joins Transportation Options at YLW
Image credit: Austin Distel on Unsplash
As of July 23, 2024, Uber is providing service for passengers at YLW, complementing the existing options, which include taxis, limousines, ride-hailing services, and more.
Local Vendors Now Serving YLW
Image credit: YLW Press Release
In early August, Sandrine French Pastry and Chocolate, a family-owned business operating in Kelowna for 20 years, announced the addition of automated dispensers at YLW, allowing travellers to get a taste of the bakery's delectable goods. The pastries are restocked daily and are available in the arrivals area near the baggage claim.
More recently, another locally owned business, Bright Jenny Coffee, made its debut in YLW's departure area. Located within the gift shop, Bright Jenny serves hot and cold coffee and an array of sweet treats.
Image credit: YLW Facebook page
“Supporting local businesses and providing our passengers with a variety of food and beverage options is a priority for us," says Sam Samaddar, Kelowna International Airport, CEO. "We are always looking for ways to improve the travel experience while also making YLW reflective of our surrounding community.”
YLW Expands Child Care Facilities
Image credit: YLW Facebook page
Thanks to provincial funding and the ongoing collaboration between the City of Kelowna, YLW, KF Aerospace, and the YMCA of Southern Interior BC, the Kelowna Airport YMCA Child Care Centre will expand, adding 24 spaces for children under 36 months of age. The Centre opened in the fall of 2023 and currently accommodates 86 children five years old and younger.
"It’s the kind of investment that really matters to Kelowna residents and strengthens the local community," says Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas.
This project serves the community in alignment with the City of Kelowna’s 2040 OCP by supporting the development of childcare spaces, including accessible, affordable and inclusive spaces that meet the needs of citizens living or working in the Gateway.
Learn more about the items above through YLW's News & Events page. Find construction updates related to the Airport Terminal Building (ATB) Expansion Project here.
