With the arrival of a new year, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is thrilled to release the findings of the Economic Impact Study showing the airport’s contributions to the local, regional and provincial economy. The study highlights that in 2024 YLW supported 9,210 full-time jobs and generated a total economic output of over 2 billion d0llars.
The study, developed using data from 96 commercial firms and government agencies, looked at the economic impact generated directly by the airport and indirectly by supporting businesses including air carriers, concessionaires, air cargo, aviation maintenance and non-resident visitor spending, among others. Ongoing investment in YLW, including the current Airport Terminal Building Expansion construction and other facility enhancements also contributed to the economic benefits.
“This report reaffirms the importance of YLW as, not only an important transportation hub, but a driving force for economic growth in our region,” said Sam Samaddar, CEO of Kelowna International Airport. “Since the last Economic Impact Study in 2014, our community and airport have seen incredible growth. These findings reflect YLW’s commitment to growing with the Okanagan region and help to attract investment, create jobs, support local businesses and spur economic growth in our community.”
Key findings of the report include:
$2.076 billion in total economic output, an increase of 163 per cent since 2014.
9,210 jobs, an increase of 103 per cent since 2014.
$519.25 million in taxes paid annually to local, provincial and federal governments.
According to the report, of YLW’s 2.13 million passengers in 2024, 40 per cent were identified as non-resident visitors recreating in the Kelowna area. Interesting to note, every 1,000 passengers through YLW creates 2.9 jobs, generates $161,000 in annual labour and creates $571,000 of economic output activity.
Besides the economic impact, the report also details some of YLW’s social value impact to the community, including air ambulance services, airport volunteerism, aviation heritage and education and childcare services.
To read the full YLW 2024 Economic Impact Study, visit ylw.kelowna.ca.
