Kelowna International Airport (YLW): Airport Code Ylw
Source: houle.ca
Airport code ylw – Kelowna International Airport, identified by the IATA code YLW, serves as a vital transportation hub for the Okanagan Valley region of British Columbia, Canada. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the airport’s operations, infrastructure, and economic significance.
YLW, Kelowna International Airport’s code, often gets compared to other smaller international airports. Understanding its operations can provide insights into similar facilities. For instance, comparing its passenger throughput to that of omad airport offers a fascinating study in scale and operational differences. Ultimately, analyzing YLW’s success can help other smaller airports, like OMAD, optimize their own strategies.
Airport Location and Identification
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YLW, officially known as Kelowna International Airport, is situated in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 49.87° N, 119.49° W. Established in 1941, the airport initially served as a military airfield before transitioning to civilian use. Over the years, YLW has undergone significant expansion and modernization, resulting in a substantial infrastructure capable of handling a considerable volume of passenger and cargo traffic. The airport encompasses a sizable area, featuring a modern terminal building, extensive tarmac space, and various support facilities.
Airport Services and Facilities, Airport code ylw
YLW offers a range of services and facilities to cater to the needs of its passengers. A variety of airlines operate from YLW, connecting Kelowna to various domestic and international destinations. These airlines provide standard services such as baggage handling, check-in counters, and in some cases, airport lounges. Ground transportation options include taxis, buses, and rental car agencies located conveniently near the terminal. The airport also features a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and readily available Wi-Fi access.
While YLW is not an airport code associated with Quintana Roo, understanding its context might involve researching other airport codes. If you’re interested in airports within the state, a helpful resource is this list of airports in quintana roo , which provides details on locations and codes. This will help differentiate YLW from the airports serving the popular tourist destination of Quintana Roo.
| Parking Option | Cost (Approximate) | Distance to Terminal | Other Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Parking | $20-$30/day | Close proximity | Convenient for quick departures/arrivals |
| Long-Term Parking | $10-$15/day | Further from the terminal (shuttle provided) | Cost-effective for extended stays |
| Economy Parking | $8-$12/day | Furthest from the terminal (shuttle provided) | Most affordable option |
Airport Passenger Statistics and Traffic
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YLW experiences fluctuations in passenger volume throughout the year, influenced by seasonal tourism and holiday travel. The busiest periods typically coincide with summer months (June-August) and holiday seasons (Christmas, New Year’s, Easter). While precise annual passenger data for the past five years requires accessing official airport reports, a general trend shows a steady increase in passenger numbers, particularly during peak seasons. Major domestic destinations include Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto. International destinations, though less numerous, often include seasonal flights to sun destinations.
| Year | Passenger Volume (Estimate) |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 1,000,000 |
| 2019 | 1,100,000 |
| 2020 | 500,000 (due to pandemic) |
| 2021 | 700,000 (recovery) |
| 2022 | 1,200,000 (above pre-pandemic levels) |
Airport Infrastructure and Development
YLW possesses multiple runways, each with specific lengths and orientations to accommodate various aircraft sizes and weather conditions. The airport regularly undertakes infrastructure improvements and expansion projects to enhance capacity and operational efficiency. These projects may include runway resurfacing, terminal upgrades, and the addition of new facilities. YLW actively implements environmental initiatives to minimize its ecological footprint, such as utilizing renewable energy sources and adopting sustainable waste management practices. Compared to other similarly sized airports in the region, YLW’s infrastructure is considered modern and well-maintained.
YLW’s Role in the Regional Economy
Kelowna International Airport plays a significant role in the economic prosperity of the Okanagan Valley. It supports numerous jobs directly through airport operations and indirectly through related industries such as tourism, hospitality, and transportation. Revenue generation stems from various sources, including parking fees, concessions, and landing charges. The airport facilitates the transportation of goods and people, benefiting key industries such as agriculture, wine production, and tourism. YLW’s contribution to regional development is substantial, attracting investment and supporting economic growth within the Okanagan Valley.