The Region of Waterloo International Airport has broken ground on an expansion project that will see the airport double in size in the next six months. This will accommodate growth that will see passenger traffic increase from 70,000 in 2019 to over one million in 2022.
Regional Council recently approved the $11 million dollar project to complete terminal expansion work at YKF. The project includes the construction of two buildings that will feature baggage carousels, holding areas, food services, retail and pre-board screening.
“It is an exciting time for the Region and this is an important milestone as the airport continues to grow and drive a thriving economy,” said Regional chair Karen Redman. “Airline partners have recently announced an increase in destinations and frequency of flights, which will move the airport to the next level in world-class service. This will also provide more opportunities for the Region in terms of jobs and economic expansion.”
WestJet, Sunwing, Pivot Airlines, and Flair are all flying out of the regional airport, but plans are in the works for others to come.
The project is an important anchor in the Region’s economy and will facilitate growth over the coming decades. It will add jobs to the economy now, help to attract businesses and support the tourism industry as the world comes out of the pandemic. International transport links are an essential factor in location decisions for companies looking to expand, and increased connectivity are important for the economy and the attraction of talent to the region.
“This investment in the airport will help to ensure we are attracting people and companies to put down roots in Waterloo Region,” said Redman. “This growth is just the beginning as we build a community that is globally competitive and one of the world’s greatest places to live.”
Terminal expansion work is expected to be complete in Spring 2022.
