Work is ongoing between Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and NAV CANADA to introduce a new flight path into the Central Okanagan airport.
According to YLW, the new flight path for planes arriving at YLW would come from the south on runway 34 and is expected to be operational in January 2024.
The airport says it would “help minimize disruption to service during low-visibility weather conditions, such as rain, snow and fog.”
“YLW is a hub airport for the Okanagan Valley and a key contributor to the regional economy,” explains a release from the airport.
“Ensuring airport accessibility is critical to the safe and efficient movement of people and goods in YLW’s unique operating environment.”
YLW and NAV CANADA are currently working together to introduce a new Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required (RNP-AR) to make the new flight path a reality.
“RNP-AR leverages satellite positioning and modern flight-management systems to allow an aircraft to fly a precise three-dimensional approach while avoiding obstacles such as mountainous terrain,” the YLW release says.
Once the approach is available, some Kelowna residents may notice planes operating in different locations.
That includes people who live in the Upper and Southwest Mission, Crawford Estates and Southeast Kelowna, who will see more aircraft directly overhead.
With that impact in mind, YLW and NAV CANADA will be co-hosting a pair of identical information sessions for residents to learn more about this new approach to the airport.
The first will be held from 5:30-8:30 pm at Okanagan Mission Community Hall on Wednesday, Nov. 1. The second will be held from 4:30-7:30 pm at Rutland Centennial Hall on Tuesday, Nov. 2.
Both parties will also be at the YLW Fall Travel Show at KF Centre for Excellence from 11 am until 3 pm on Saturday, Oct. 28, to share more information.
If you’re unable to attend those sessions, or simply want to learn more on your own, click this link.
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