The Kelowna City Council has approved funding for a new C$90 million (US$65 million) terminal at Kelowna International Airport (YLW).
Phase 1 of the expansion will add approximately 5,590 square meters of new space to the terminal building and 1,200 square meters of renovated space to the existing terminal building. Among the enhancements for travelers at the British Columbia airport will be an expanded departures lounge to improve connections to aircraft gates, an expanded security screening area, better wayfinding and more food and beverage options.
The new terminal, the largest infrastructure project to date at KLW, will be funded through fees paid by airport users. Construction is expected to begin this summer with the completion of Phase 1 set for 2026.
Airport officials are already laying the groundwork for the start of the project, including looking to minimize any traveler inconvenience as a result of the construction.
“We know that construction will have impacts to guests visiting YLW, such as noise and impacts to existing amenities and parking. Our team is working to minimize these impacts as much as possible,” said Sam Samaddar, YLW director. “We thank everyone for their patience as we complete this work to make these important improvements.”
Phase 2 of the YLW infrastructure overhaul will include further expanding the terminal building for a relocated domestic arrivals area and new baggage carousels, repurposing the existing arrivals area to accommodate larger area for international arrivals, and relocating the rental car, shuttle and tourism booths.
