The West Kootenay Regional Airport terminal expansion is one step closer to fruition.
Council awarded the architectural contract for the project to Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning Ltd. during the June 23 Council meeting, marking a significant step forward in the expansion.
A press release from the City says the terminal expansion will allow the airport to better meet traveller demand with larger aircraft, improve the passenger experience, and create increased revenue opportunities.
The need to expand the terminal was identified in 2019 following the completion of an airport master plan, which highlighted what Airport Manager Maciej Habrych called a major “red flag” related to the terminal’s capacity and level of service, particularly post-security.
The service gap became especially noticeable when Air Canada brought in a 78-seat aircraft to replace a smaller one.
“When we had the initial bump post-COVID with two flights, it was really noticeable that the terminal was just way too small.”
In 2022, the City and Airport recognized this gap and successfully secured a $6 million UBCM grant to expand the terminal, with the initial cost of the project slated at $10 million.
The project aligns with the City’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan and will significantly assist in addressing existing capacity issues and service level shortcomings at the facility.
“We’re looking to enhance the passenger experience by delivering an efficient, intuitive terminal flow. We’re looking to enhance the travel quality, and that’s really about matching the top boutique airport experience in North America, as Council noted in their strategic plan,” said Habrych.
In terms of revenue growth, Habrych says his team will be exploring both aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue through the design, as well as options for long-term financial sustainability.
The UBCM grant funding end date requires the project to be completed by July 2028, with design work to get underway this summer, and construction to occur between 2027 and 2028.
There will be no flight disruptions or cancellations as a result of construction.
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