Economic Impact
Driving Prosperity: The 2025 YQQ Economic Impact Study
Presenting the 2025 YQQ Economic Impact Study. This snapshot highlights how our region’s airport drives well-being across the Comox Valley by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening our community's connection to the world.
The Comox Valley Airport Commission (CVAC) commissioned InterVISTAS Consulting to conduct a study on the economic impact of civilian operations at YQQ in 2025. This study provides the latest snapshot of the economic contributions made by the airport within the province of British Columbia, focusing on commercial airport operations, airport capital investment, and air visitor expenditures.
The results speak for themselves: YQQ is a powerful economic engine for Vancouver Island.
YQQ By The Numbers
- $312 Million: The total economic output generated by YQQ in 2025 alone.
- 1,690 Jobs: The total number of local jobs supported by airport operations.
- $6.5 Million: The amount generated annually in taxes to local, provincial, and federal governments to help fund public services.
- 449,849 Passengers: The number of travelers YQQ welcomed through its doors in 2025.
- Top-Tier Connectivity: YQQ proudly ranks as the 5th busiest airport in British Columbia and the 20th busiest in Canada.
The Visitor Economy & Direct Impact
Our airport acts as the premier gateway for tourism and business travel, bringing significant outside dollar investment directly into our neighborhoods.
- Tourism Catalyst: Non-resident visitors made up 43% of YQQ's passengers in 2025.
- Massive Local Spin-off: Spending from these non-resident visitors accounted for a staggering 66% of the total economic impact.
Every Passenger Counts
Every time someone chooses to fly through YQQ, it directly fuels our community's growth. For every 1,000 passengers passing through the terminal:
- 3.8 jobs are created.
- Over $693,000 of economic output activity is injected into the region.