20 Year Agreement to Benefit Kelowna and YLW

Solidifying job growth and facilitating development, a lease between the federal government and the City of Kelowna has been extended by 20 years, allowing the City to continue management and operation of Kelowna International Airport.

Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country Ron Cannan. (Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com.)

Announced on Wednesday by Member of Parliament for Kelowna Lake-Country Ron Cannan, this lease amendment is expected to help ensure continued development and investment of airport infrastructure and capital projects.

“As one of the top 11 busiest airports in one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, YLW welcomes over 1.6 million passengers annually. As we’re seeing such a high growth rate, this extension lets us confidently plan for the future aviation needs of our community,” said City of Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran.

“As we all know, the airport is a vital transportation link to and from the southern interior of British Columbia and value extends to all sectors of the economy,” added Cannan.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com.

Moreover, extending the lease will ensure economic growth for Kelowna residents.

“This agreement solidifies our company here. Things aren’t going to change for us and our expansions, and our goals to grow our company are aided by solidifying the growth of the airport as well,” said Jeff Monk, Manager of Airport Operations for Ironman Flights via Kelowna Airport.

YLW was built and operated by the City of Kelowna until it was transferred to Transport Canada in 1959. In the same year, the airport was leased back to the City under a long-term lease. Wednesday’s announcement secures City operation of YLW until December 31, 2054.