Photo: YLW - file photo

The Kelowna International Airport is receiving more than $18 million in federal funding for a number of infrastructure projects.

Wednesday, Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra announced the federal government is providing $15.2 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, along with more than $3 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund.

The infrastructure funding will be used for the construction of YLW's Combined Operations Building ($7.1 million), the Airport Terminal Building roof replacement ($800,000), airport biosecurity infrastructure ($2.7 million), runway end safety area ($4.5 million) and airfield lighting and support infrastructure ($120,000).

Meanwhile, YLW says the $3 million relief funds will go towards continued airport operations and essential air services, as usage of the airport remains down due to the pandemic.

“We are very appreciative to receive this funding from the federal government as it will be critical in the recovery and future growth of YLW,” said Sam Samaddar, airport director.

“Investing in this airport infrastructure now is essential for our long-term growth plan. As a regional economic hub, the capacity of YLW is vital to support flights to move people and goods throughout the Okanagan region and beyond.”

YLW says it has been one of Canada's fastest recovering airports during the pandemic, and currently offers 60 daily non-stop commercial flights across nine airlines.