
Kamloops Airport (YKA) has released its passenger statistics for the second quarter of 2025, showing a 10.5% year-over-year decline compared to the same period in 2024. A total of 65,971 travelers passed through the airport between April and June 2025, down from 73,721 during Q2 2024.
Monthly Passenger Breakdown (2025 vs 2024):
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April: 21,168 (↓ 18.8% from 26,074)
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May: 22,098 (↓ 8.6% from 24,174)
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June: 22,705 (↓ 3.3% from 23,473)
The decline continues a trend that was observed throughout 2024, when Kamloops Airport recorded 310,507 total passengers — a modest 0.4% decrease from 2023’s total of 311,696. The final quarter of 2024 also saw a notable 9.1% year-over-year drop, with reduced flight frequencies to major hubs like Calgary and Vancouver identified as the primary cause.
“These Q2 figures reflect the lingering impacts of airline scheduling reductions and broader geopolitical factors,” said a spokesperson for Kamloops Airport Ltd. “While flights continue to operate at or near capacity, fewer scheduled departures have affected overall traveler volumes.”
Although pre-pandemic service levels between Calgary and Kamloops resumed in May, service to Vancouver remains below previous frequencies. Additionally, transborder travel continues to face headwinds due to international uncertainty.
Despite these challenges, airport officials remain confident in long-term recovery. The recent announcement by WestJet of a new nonstop route to Edmonton, operating twice weekly, is seen as a positive development and a sign of continued investment in the Kamloops market.
“We remain optimistic that collaborative efforts with our airline, tourism, and business partners will support sustained growth,” the spokesperson added. “Kamloops Airport is committed to enhancing air travel options and promoting the region as a hub for both leisure and business.”