Kelowna International Airport (IATA: YLW, ICAO: CYLW) serves Kelowna, CA. It has 80 scheduled routes to 47 destinations in 4 countries, operated by 21 airlines.
- Modernized Facilities and Cleanliness: The new departure expansion, opened in January 2026, is described as modern, bright, and significantly less cramped, enhancing the pre-flight experience. Travelers frequently praise the airport for being clean, well-organized, and safe, with spotless washrooms.
- Improved Security Screening: The upgraded security area, featuring CATSA CT scanning technology, allows passengers to keep liquids, gels, aerosols, and large electronics in their carry-on bags, and generally keep shoes on (except boots above the ankle), making the process feel faster and less stressful. NEXUS cardholders benefit from front-of-the-line access.
- Enhanced Amenities and Accessibility: The expanded departures lounge offers increased seating and new dining options like Ellison Field Taphouse and Vintners Exchange. The airport also recognizes the Sunflower Lanyard Program for travelers needing additional support and provides accessible parking and a Temporary Accessible Parking Permit Program.
- Friendly Staff and Car Rental Services: Many travelers commend the airport staff for being friendly and helpful. On-site car rental services, such as Enterprise Rentals, receive positive feedback for top-notch service and well-maintained cars.
- Variable Security Wait Times: Despite new technology, security wait times can be unpredictable and lengthy, particularly during busy travel periods, holidays, or when multiple flights depart simultaneously. One instance in February 2026 reported over an hour wait, with only one security line open and significant delays for oversized luggage due to a single scanner.
- Crowding and Temperature Issues Post-Security: Even with the expansion, the post-security area can still become crowded and uncomfortably warm.
- Baggage Claim and Terminal Flow for Arrivals: The baggage claim area has not moved with the expansion, meaning regional arrivals now involve a longer walk through the full ticketing and check-in area to retrieve luggage, potentially causing congestion during busy times.
- Limited Food/Retail Options and High Prices: Some travelers find the prices for food and goods to be exorbitant, and general food and retail services received a 56% satisfaction rating. There are no traditional airport lounges available.
Bottom line: Kelowna International Airport has undergone significant improvements, especially with its recent terminal expansion and advanced security screening, leading to a generally more efficient and comfortable experience for many. However, travelers should be mindful of potential security delays during peak seasons, particularly if traveling with oversized luggage, and note the lack of traditional airport lounges and potentially high prices for on-site amenities.
Routes from YLW
47 nonstop destinations · 21 airlines.
Airlines at YLW
21 carriers operate scheduled departures.
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Airport routes
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) offers 80 flight routes operated by 21 airlines. Major carriers include WestJet, Pacific Coastal Airlines, WestJet Encore and others. Popular destinations from Kelowna include Vancouver Int'l, Calgary Int'l, Edmonton Int'l, Toronto Pearson Int'l, Victoria Int'l.
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Common questions about YLW
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from YLW?
Kelowna International Airport has 80 scheduled routes to 47 destinations in 4 countries, operated by 21 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Kelowna International Airport?
21 carriers operate scheduled departures, including WestJet, Pacific Coastal Airlines, WestJet Encore.
Where is Kelowna International Airport located?
Kelowna International Airport is located in Kelowna, CA, at an elevation of 1421 ft. Its IATA code is YLW and ICAO code is CYLW.