Kelowna airport gets $18M boost

KELOWNA — The airport in Kelowna has received $15 million in federal funding for upgrades to infrastructure, including for the flow of passengers and crew being tested for COVID-19.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra says some of the improvements include replacing airfield lighting, sections of the terminal building’s roof and the construction of runway areas.

He says better COVID-19 testing infrastructure could include kiosks, touchless screens and barriers, especially for passengers who are getting tested for the virus.

Alghabra says an additional $3 million will be provided to Kelowna International Airport to help cover operational costs.

Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran says the Okanagan airport has seen a spike in passenger traffic compared with many other airports during the pandemic.