Kelowna Airport Invites Input on 2045 Master Plan

February 17, 2016

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KELOWNA – The Kelowna International Airport (YLW) will be hosting an Open House for the new Airport Master Plan 2045 on Saturday, February 27th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Citizens will have the opportunity to review key aspects of the draft plan and provide valuable feedback that will be considered in the development of the final Master Plan.

“We know that decision-making processes are significantly improved on a local, regional and provincial scale when the public is included in solutions,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “We’re looking for citizens to participate in discussions, identify issues and provide critical input on the plan.”

As the largest municipally owned and operated airport in Canada, YLW serves 1.6 million passengers annually, a 6.5 per cent increase since 2013. The airport generates benefits not only for the City of Kelowna, but also beyond its boundaries to the entire Thompson Okanagan area.

With such a high growth rate comes the need to plan for future requirements for the aviation needs of the community. The new Master Plan will guide the development of YLW out to 2045 and will be instrumental in its drive to become the best mid-sized airport in North America.

“As we’re unable to move the airport, we need to secure long-term sustainability to support the growth of YLW for future generations,” said Samaddar. “This Master Plan will guide our decisions over the next 30 years, so we need to ensure we get the community’s input on key aspects of the plan.”

The Master Plan Open House will take place at YLW’s Spring Travel Event, a free event where guests meet with air carriers, travel agents, hotels and resorts to get helpful travel tips and information on popular vacation destinations. The Open House will be located on the airport’s second floor mezzanine. Free parking will be provided in the long-term lot, with validation.

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