Efforts focused on connectivity, passenger experience

Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is seeing strong growth, along with new investments that support better travel, regional connections, and long-term economic activity through the first quarter of 2026.

Passenger numbers continue to climb, including the busiest March on record in the airport’s history, with about 16,000 travelers passing through the terminal in a single month.

The increase reflects growing demand for air travel in the region, supported by expanded airline service, more available seats, and continued interest in tourism and business travel.

Adding to the positive momentum, Pacific Coastal Airlines has returned to YXC with daily direct service between Cranbrook and Kelowna as part of its 2025/2026 schedule. The route improves access for business, healthcare, and tourism, while connecting residents to destinations across British Columbia.

To support this growth, YXC is making upgrades to improve the passenger experience.

Planned terminal improvements include an expanded passenger hold room and new washroom facilities, designed to make travel more comfortable, accessible, and efficient as traffic volume increases.

The airport is also expanding and repaving its parking areas to improve access and increase capacity for passengers and visitors. These upgrades will help ensure the airport remains reliable, and convenient for the community it serves.

All of these great things are happening at the airport – an entirely self-sustaining operation funding its own capital and not drawing a penny from municipal tax revenue.

“It is a privilege to be part of the continued success of YXC. Aviation is a turbulent industry to work in, never more so that over these past few years and I’m thrilled that the continued loyalty and utilization of this key asset has enabled us to smooth out the bumps and continue realizing our potential for the region,” said Tristen Chernove, Airport Manager for the Canadian Rockies International Airport.

Sustainability also remains an important focus. Electric vehicle charging stations installed at the airport continue to be well used and well received, providing added convenience for travelers while supporting low-emission transportation across the Kootenays.

On the business side, YXC is seeing continued private-sector investment. The sale of the former Bid Air hangar to Decosse Customs supports increased aviation activity and reinforces the airport’s role as a regional hub for logistics and specialized services. Streamline Airways is also completed construction of a new hangar, adding space for aircraft storage, maintenance, and operations.

Together, these developments highlight YXC’s ongoing role as a key transportation link and economic driver for the region, supporting travelers today while preparing for future growth.

Visit the Canadian Rockies International Airport website or follow them on Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/fly.yxc/.

e-KNOW file photos

City of Cranbrook

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