If you’re flying out of Kelowna International Airport (YLW) today or tomorrow, you might want to give yourself some extra time at the airport.
That’s because Sunday, Dec. 21, and Monday, Dec. 22, are likely going to be the two busiest days of the year at the airport.
Earlier this month, YLW estimated that 188,000 passengers would pass through the airport between Dec. 17 and Jan. 6.
During that time, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays were anticipated to be “peak travel days.”
Well, the Sunday and Monday before Christmas are upon us and YLW is sure to be packed with people both leaving and arriving in town.
As a result, expect the next 36 hours to be right up there with the busiest times of 2025 at Kelowna airport.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of our passengers’ holiday travel plans, but are asking passengers to plan in advance and prepare for longer than normal wait times,” noted YLW CEO Sam Samaddar.
Here are a few tips from the City of Kelowna and YLW to make your holiday travel experiences as smooth as possible:
Check the airport web page to help you plan
- YLW will be providing daily updates on ylw.kelowna.ca/traveltips to provide passengers as much information as possible when planning their travel journey. The web page will feature daily passenger volumes and anticipated peak times for security. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airline for the updated flight status.
Parking
- Parking lots will reach capacity. Passengers are encouraged to use alternative forms of transportation or pre-book parking using valet parking. Picking someone up at YLW? Use our Cell Phone Waiting Area to park for free until your party lets you know they’re at the front curb and ready to be picked up.
Check-In Counters
- Arrive at least two hours in advance of your flight and expect longer lines than normal. To help speed up the process at the airline check-in counter, go online to check-in, pay baggage fees, and get your boarding pass before coming to the airport.
Security Screening
- Give yourself extra time for a longer than usual line. Go through security screening early and enjoy a meal from White Spot or Subway or a quick treat from local favourites such as Bright Jenny coffee or Sandrine French Pastry & Chocolate.
