Kelowna Airport And Parking: Everything You Need To Know

An Introduction To Kelowna Airport Parking

Heading to Kelowna Airport? You'll be glad to know that the parking facilities there have been recently upgraded! No need for a reservation either - just head on over and take your pick from the 2,600+ fully lit spots in the short and long-term parking lots. However, during peak seasons you may find that spaces can become quite congested, so it's best to plan accordingly!

Short-Stay Parking

If you're only away for a few days, YLW's short-term parking lot is the perfect option! It's just a two-minute walk away from check-in and you can access it 24/7. The open-air lot is well lit, patrolled by security around the clock, and includes priority accessibility parking. You'll be able to get to and from the terminal quickly and easily!

Long-Stay Parking

Heading to Kelowna Airport for a longer trip? The long-term parking lot is the way to go! It's much more affordable than the short-term option and just a five-minute walk from the terminal. Plus, they offer a free shuttle service right to the terminal forecourt so you don't have to worry about lugging your bags around. Just give the driver a wave when you arrive and they'll take you to your space! Happy travels!

Valet Parking

Heading to the airport but don't want to worry about parking? YLW has you covered with their valet services! All it takes is a simple booking and then just drive up to the kiosk located on Kelowna Airport's forecourt. Drop off your keys and head straight to check-in - no fuss, no worries! We'll have your car waiting for you on the forecourt when you return. No more stress about parking - it's that easy!

Pick-up/drop-off

If you're taking family and friends to or from the airport, then the first 15 minutes of parking at YLW is free. But if you'd like a bit more time to say goodbye, there are meters just outside the terminal that can let you stay for up to 30 minutes. So you can take your time when saying farewell!

Guide To Kelowna Airport

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is a popular and rapidly developing airport in Canada! With over 1.6 million passengers annually, the one-terminal building and single 8,900-foot (2,713-meter) runway are home to many major international and domestic airlines with more than 60 daily flights. YLW is a major hub for travelers between Canada, the USA, Mexico and the Caribbean. It's definitely on the rise!

What Are Kelowna Airports Contact Details?

Address: 5533 Airport Way, Kelowna Airport, BC V1V 1S1, Canada. Phone: +1 250-807-4300 Website: https://ylw.kelowna.ca/

Location Of Kelowna Airport

Just 10 minutes from Kelowna City, the Kelowna Airport (YLW) is conveniently located off Highway 97 - one of Canada's longest numbered highways! To get to and from the airport, you can take advantage of numerous bus services running from throughout the region to YLW's dedicated bus stop. Or if you're driving from further afield, you can follow the Airport Way slip road directly to Highway 97 and then onto YLW. Unfortunately, Kelowna city and the airport don't have passenger train services yet but there are intercity coach services that provide access from major cities throughout Canada and the northern states of America. The nearest rail station is located in the city of Kamloops, about two hours away by car. So you see, getting to and from YLW is easy peasy! Just take your pick between buses or cars and you'll be there in no time. Enjoy your journey!

History Of Kelowna Airport

Kelowna Airport has been a part of the community since 1946, when locals bought the land on which it sat. Back then, it was known as Ellison Field and featured a small terminal building, grass airstrip and even a control tower built onto the back of a truck! By 1980s though, over $10 million had been put into improving the airport and its facilities to meet the growing demand. Then, in 1998, another $20 million was invested to double the size of the terminal and increase passenger capacity from 150 to 450 per hour. Now one of the fastest-growing airports in North America, Kelowna Airport has big plans for the future - they intend to double their capacity and increase their international reach by 2025! It's definitely an exciting time for this airport. This is a great example of how the community comes together to make something amazing happen. Kelowna Airport has been around since 1946, when locals purchased the land it sits on. Initially, it boasted a small terminal building, grass airstrip and a control tower built onto the back of a truck. In the 1980s, $10 million was invested to upgrade the airport and bring it up to the standard of other major North American airports. Then, in 1998, another $20 million was used to double the size of the terminal and triple the number of passengers it could accommodate per hour. Now, Kelowna Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in North America, with plans to double its capacity and increase its international reach by 2025. It's inspiring to see how far this airport has come with the help of local investment and support. We can't wait to see what the future holds! Kelowna Airport has been part of our community since 1946. Back then, it was a small operation with just a terminal building, grass airstrip and a control tower built onto the back of a truck. Over the years, locals have invested over $30 million to bring the airport up to date with modern standards. In 1998, they doubled the size of the terminal and tripled its passenger capacity from 150 to 450 per hour. Now, Kelowna Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in North America and it's only getting bigger! With plans to double its capacity and increase its international reach by 2025, this airport is showing what a little bit of local investment can achieve. We can't wait to see what the future holds! It's amazing to think that locals purchased the land for Kelowna Airport in 1946. Back then, it was a simple operation with a terminal building, grass airstrip and even a control tower built onto the back of a truck! Over the years, local investment has seen the airport grow at an impressive rate - in 1980s alone over $10 million was invested in upgrading the facilities. Then, in 1998, another $20 million was used to double the size of the terminal and triple the number of passengers it could accommodate per hour.

Kelowna Airport Facilities

Are you planning to fly in or out of YLW airport? If so, you're in for a treat! The terminal building is full of unique food, retail and culture experiences that are sure to make your visit more enjoyable. You can find Canada's finest coffee, delicious seasonal menus and fresh produce all within the airport. Plus, there's travel essentials, a wine cellar and even an art gallery. If you have any questions about the facilities or require special services during your visit, just check out their website for more information. YLW is proud to provide a wealth of culture and cuisine to make your stay comfortable, satisfied and entertaining! Enjoy!

Kelowna Airport Hotel And Parking

Are you going on a trip and need somewhere to park near Kelowna Airport? Look no further! The Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna Airport Hotel offers free parking for up to seven days, as well as a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service. If you're traveling on a budget, the Days Inn is only 10 minutes away and provides convenient, comfortable and affordable accommodation with Park and Fly packages. They even have deals that include tickets to local events! So why not make the most of your trip by staying near the airport? You won't regret it!

Top Things To Do In Kelowna Airport

One Stop Shop

Heading to YLW Airport? Don't forget to stock up on all the essentials! From plug adapters and sunscreen, to reading material and umbrellas - there's a shop or vending machine for it all. And while you're at it, why not pick up some authentic local souvenirs from the gift shop - like Aboriginal artwork, or maybe even some of that famous Canadian maple syrup. Or if you're feeling fancy, drop by the wine cellar and take home a bottle or two from one of the region's celebrated vineyards and wineries! YLW has something for everyone.

Wine And Dine

Heading out on a holiday soon? YLW has got you covered when it comes to all of your pre-flight culinary needs. Stop in for an early morning cup of coffee before check-in, grab a bite to eat for lunch or enjoy a glass of locally pressed grapes and get into the vacation spirit - there are cafés, restaurants and bars on both sides of security for your convenience. Bon voyage!

Art In The Airport

Head to Kelowna International Airport and you'll find more than just planes - you can also check out the stunning artwork on display in the terminal. The satellite gallery here showcases pieces from visiting exhibitions as well as key works from the permanent collection of Kelowna Art Gallery. Right in the middle of it all is John Nutter's breathtaking glass sculpture 'Escape from Stella Polaris' in the rotunda - definitely worth a visit! Hope that you enjoy your time here and don't forget to take lots of pictures. Safe travels!

Get Them In The Zone

Heading to Kelowna for a family trip? Check out the Jane Hoffman Kids' Zone at the airport! Located in the departures lounge, it's packed with iPads, puzzles and beanbag chairs - plus TVs that show nothing but cartoons and children's shows. Tired little ones can have some fun before their flight, taking the pressure off mom and dad. It's sure to get the vacation off to a great start!

Take It All In

If you need to de-stress during a hectic week or want to take in the beauty before your big flight, head up to YLW's observation deck. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the runway and get away from the hustle and bustle of the departures lounge for a little break. It's the perfect place to relax and appreciate the moment.

An Apple A Day

Kelowna Airport has partnered with over a dozen local farmers, meaning you can now enjoy some of the freshest and most handpicked seasonal fruit from the region while in flight! The fruit is safely packed in special packaging designed to prevent any damage during travel. So if you'd like a snack during your journey, just grab your bag of fruit from the overhead compartment or stow it under your seat - it'll be perfect and ready when you are!

Top Things To Do Near Kelowna Airport

Great White

Heading to Big White Mountain for a ski trip? The iconic mountain stands tall at 7,595 feet (2,315 metres) and is the tallest in the Okanagan Highland. It's a popular spot for locals and international visitors each year, just an hour away from YLW! At Big White Resort you'll get access to 2,765 acres (1,119 hectares) of skiable terrain and have the option to rent gear. Plus, you can get certified instructors for a refresher or a unique course. There's something for everyone - from families looking for an adventure to experienced snowboarders. Don't miss out! Head up to Big White Mountain this season!

Lake Life

Okanagan Lake is a stunning 84-mile stretch of water just half an hour from Kelowna Airport. It's a fjord lake that was formed by glacial activity over millions of years and it can reach depths of 328 feet! This makes it the perfect spot for boating and other recreational activities like swimming, fishing, and walking along the shoreline. There's even a mythical lake monster called Ogopogo that some people claim to have seen! So if you're looking for a fun day out with the family, Okanagan Lake is definitely worth a visit. You won't be disappointed - it's an idyllic spot for all kinds of activities. Plus, it's said to contain its own monster - a 50-foot long serpent-like creature affectionately nicknamed Ogopogo. So keep your eyes peeled while you explore the lake's verdant shoreline with beaches, forests and footpaths! Whether you're looking for adventure or peace and tranquility, Okanagan Lake is the perfect destination. And, who knows? Maybe you'll catch a glimpse of Ogopogo while you're there. The lake is the perfect place to make memories and enjoy everything it has to offer! So come and explore Okanagan Lake - it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. Enjoy!

Aboriginal Ancestry

Are you looking to explore the culture of Canada's indigenous Sqilx'w people? Head over to The Sncewips Heritage Museum and get a firsthand look at their unique collection of art and artefacts! Learn your first words of Nsyilxcən - the traditional language of the Sqilx'w people - and take them home to share the fascinating stories of an ancient culture. The museum is open Monday to Friday, only a 40-minute drive from YLW across Okanagan Lake. Don't miss out!

Aboriginal Ancestry

Are you looking to explore the culture of Canada's indigenous Sqilx'w people? Head over to The Sncewips Heritage Museum and get a firsthand look at their unique collection of art and artefacts! Learn your first words of Nsyilxcən - the traditional language of the Sqilx'w people - and take them home to share the fascinating stories of an ancient culture. The museum is open Monday to Friday, only a 40-minute drive from YLW across Okanagan Lake. Don't miss out!

Half A World Away

Are you looking for a little oasis in the heart of Kelowna? Look no further than the Kasugai Japanese Walled Garden! It's been around since 1989, inspiring visitors with its stunning pine trees, koi-filled ponds and winding stone paths. Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled: it can be tricky to spot from certain directions. Don't worry if you're lost, though - locals will be able to point you in the right direction! Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this tranquil space and celebrate 30 years of global friendship between Kelowna and its sister city of Kasugai, Japan.

Wine Country

If you're looking for something to do before your flight, why not give your taste buds a treat and visit one of the Okanagan Valley's many vineyards? Just a mile from the airport is Ancient Hill Estate, one of the region's most established wineries. You can take a tour of their vines, learn about their processes, and sample some of their delicious wines. With its sunny hills and pure waters, the Okanagan Valley is a premier destination for Canadian wineries – perfect for an afternoon of indulgence before you take flight!

Market Value

Heading to the airport soon? Why not spend some time exploring the downtown Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market for unique souvenirs or gifts? You'll find everything from seasonal fruits, veggies and freshly-baked goods to handmade jewelry, clothing, homeware and organic cosmetics. All sourced and produced by farmers and artisans within a 10-mile (16-kilometer) radius. Shop away - the perfect way to spend your time before takeoff!

Which Terminal?

Kelowna Airport (YLW) may only have one terminal, but it's a big one! The 76,000 square foot building has been upgraded and expanded over the years to accommodate its growing number of passengers. You can find flights from Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, WestJet and more – offering public flights to and from Canada, the Americas, and the Caribbean. Just check out the Kelowna Airport website to find out which airlines are available! Hope that helps you plan your next trip!

How To Get To Kelowna Airport

Car

Heading to Kelowna Airport? If you're taking Highway 97, simply use the postal code BC V1V 1S1 on your sat nav and it'll guide you right to the terminal building. Highway 97 is a great choice if you're coming from the USA border or even some of Canada's northern territories - it's an easy drive from many places. Happy travels!

Bus

If you're looking to get to YLW, the Kelowna Regional Bus Route 23 and Vernon Regional Bus Route 90 are your best options. They run every 15 minutes from 5:30am to 6:30pm on weekdays and during rush hour only. Plus, there are plenty of other buses that make regular stops at the UBC Okanagan Exchange Bus Terminal, where both route 23 and route 90 stop. For more info and to get an up-to-date timetable, check out the Kelowna Regional Transit System website. Happy travels!

Coach

If you're coming from out of town, there are plenty of ways to get to Kelowna Airport. Many intercity coach services in North America offer stops at the UBC Okanagan Exchange, so you can hop off and catch a local bus that'll take you straight to the airport. Simple!

Train

Unfortunately, there's no train service to Kelowna City or Kelowna Airport. The closest rail station is in Kamloops which is about 93 miles (150 kilometers) away from Kelowna. That's quite the drive!

Useful Tips

Arrive Early

Heading to Kelowna Airport (YLW)? Make sure you get there with plenty of time before departure! For domestic flights, aim to arrive at least 90 minutes prior and for international journeys, give yourself two hours. Don't risk being stuck in long queues - get to the airport on time! Especially during peak seasons when YLW can become extra busy.

Plan Your Public Transport

Traveling to YLW by public transport can be tricky, as there are only a few buses that go directly to the airport. Be sure to check the timetables and schedules ahead of time so you arrive with plenty of time to spare! You may also consider taking a taxi or rideshare to the airport if public transport isn't an option for you. That way you can be sure to get there on time!

Free Pick-up/drop-off

Dropping off or picking up your passengers at Kelowna Airport has never been easier—the first 15 minutes of parking in both the short- and long-stay lots are free! That means you can quickly pop in and out, taking only a few minutes to walk between the carparks and the terminal. It's a convenient solution for both you and your passengers.

Toll-free Trolleys

At YLW, we make travelling easier by providing complimentary baggage carts! You can find them inside the terminal and outside the departures entrance, as well as in both short- and long-term parking areas. No need to worry about lugging your luggage around - grab a cart and get on with your journey!

Do Your Bit For The Airport

If you're ever passing through Kelowna Airport, consider doing your part to help them reach their goal of becoming the best mid-sized airport in North America by 2045. They've raised money for upgrades and improvements by asking every passenger departing to pay a small Airport Improvement Fee. So if you can spare it, why not chip in and help make YLW bigger and better? Your contribution could go a long way towards making Kelowna Airport the envy of all other mid-sized airports in North America!

Kelowna Airport FAQs

How Do I Get To Kelowna Airport?

If you're planning a trip to Kelowna, getting to the airport is easy! Just hop on Highway 97, running all along western Canada from the US border. You'll take the Airport Way slip road north from central Kelowna or south from the Okanagan Valley. For more details, check out this guide's 'How to get to Kelowna Airport' section or YLW's own transportation page. Happy travels!

Where Can I Find Information About My Flight?

You can use YLW's arrivals and pages to keep track of your flight number, destination, scheduled arrival time, and any revisions that may have been made. Stay on top of your trip!

Can I Book Parking At YLW?

Kelowna Airport's parking capacity recently increased to over 2,600 spaces, so you don't need to worry about pre-booking a spot. Just take a look at the various options available on parkingcupid.com and find the perfect one for your vehicle before your flight! No fuss, no reservations needed. Easy peasy.

Is Kelowna Airport Fully Accessible?

YLW is dedicated to making sure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. If you require any specific assistance during your time at the airport, you can find more information on their services page or let your airline know when booking so they can make the necessary arrangements for you.

What Happens If I Lose Something At Kelowna Airport?

If you've left something behind on YLW Airport property, don't worry! We'll store it safely with Duty Management. Just keep in mind that we can't be held responsible for any items or luggage forgotten on your flight. So if you're missing something, make sure to reach out to your airline as soon as possible.

What Destinations Can I Fly To And From Kelowna Airport?

Flights from Kelowna Airport can take you to all sorts of exciting destinations, either directly or with connecting flights! Planning your next getaway has never been easier. Where will you go?