News Release - January 21, 2026

Comox Valley Airport Closes 2025 with Busiest Year to Date

The Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) has closed 2025 with the busiest year in terminal history, welcoming 449,849 passengers over the calendar year and setting a new all-time annual record.

Passenger volumes in 2025 increased 11.7% compared to 2024, surpassing the airport's previous record of 420,811 passengers set in 2018 by more than 29,000 travellers. The milestone reflects sustained demand for air travel in the Comox Valley and across northern Vancouver Island.

The record performance was driven by strong summer travel demand, expanded seasonal service, and continued community support for direct nonstop routes. Throughout 2025, the airport experienced eight record-breaking months, reinforcing YQQ's role as a key regional transportation hub and gateway to Vancouver Island.

"Setting a new annual passenger record is an important milestone for Comox Valley Airport and a clear signal of our region's continued growth and connectivity," says Comox Valley Airport Commission Board Chair Bill Anglin. "The strong performance we saw throughout 2025 reinforces the value of reliable, nonstop air service for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. As we look ahead, our focus is on laying the groundwork for future expansion and ensuring our terminal, facilities and services are ready to meet the growing needs of our community."

"WestJet was pleased to support Comox Valley Airport during its busiest year on record," says Chris White-DeVries, WestJet Senior Manager, Airport Affairs & Hub Strategy." Passenger volumes on our services at YQQ grew by more than 12 per cent in 2025, representing the majority of the airport's yearover-year growth. We value our partnership with the airport and look forward to continuing to serve this growing market."

Looking ahead, Comox Valley Airport is focused on expanding capacity and flexibility across its facilities to support future demand. Recent ramp expansion work completed in 2025 has improved aircraft parking and airside operations, providing more room during peak periods and supporting safer, more efficient movements on the apron. Additional enhancements are planned as the airport continues to adapt to growing passenger and airline needs.

About YQQ

YQQ serves passengers from central and northern Vancouver Island with its year-round direct flights to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Kelowna, and seasonal service to Toronto and Puerto Vallarta. Our Vancouver Island airport in the Comox Valley is connected by two major provincial highways, making it a natural hub for travelers seeking to enter or exit Vancouver Island.

For more information, contact:

Grant McNeil
Marketing and Communications Manager
Comox Valley Airport
250-890-0829 Ext. 253