The Kelowna International Airport's (YLW) new departures lounge and security screening checkpoint will open to travellers on January 28, marking a major milestone in Phase 1 of the Airport Terminal Building (ATB) Expansion project.

“This terminal expansion is an important milestone for Kelowna and the Okanagan,” said Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas. “YLW is a critical gateway that supports jobs, tourism, and economic growth, and this investment will help ensure we can continue welcoming more visitors and connecting our community to opportunities across Canada and beyond.”

YLW notes that when the terminal expansion opens, passengers will notice:

  • An expanded departures lounge with new direct access to several gates for departing and arriving passengers.
  • An expanded security screening area with new CT X-ray technology to support increased capacity and screening efficiencies.
  • Improved food and beverage options, with the opening of the pre-security Ellison Field Taphouse and Vintners Exchange in the departures area.
  • Improved wayfinding and upgraded digital displays throughout the terminal.
  • Contemporary design featuring B.C. mass timber, supported by a $500,000 grant from B.C.’s Mass Timber Demonstration Program.

YLW New Departures Lounge
Grand opening event. Image credit: Kelowna International Airport (via news release)

"I am proud to celebrate the opening of our expanded terminal and raise the travel experience for our valued passengers," said Sam Samaddar, CEO of Kelowna International Airport and Tourism Kelowna Board Member. "But this opening is really just the beginning. Over the next year, work will continue in areas of the existing terminal as we renovate 1,200 square metres, making improvements and adding new amenities to further benefit our passengers. We appreciate our travellers’ patience as we continue to work to deliver a world-class airport experience for everyone.”

The Airport Terminal Building (ATB) Expansion project, Phase 1, is scheduled to be fully completed by the end of 2026. Passengers will continue to see construction activities at YLW as this project progresses. Additional amenities will include a new washroom concourse, pet relief station, and new ‘grab-and-go’ food & beverage options. 

To learn more about the project, visit ylw.kelowna.ca/atb.

 

The content above was sourced from YLW's news release.