YLW passengers reminded to plan in advance for holiday travel

People flying in and out of Kelowna International Airport (YLW) over the holidays are urged to take steps to ensure travel is made easy.

YLW expects more than 130,000 passengers to go through the airport between December 20 and January 8, with the peak travel days being Wednesdays and Fridays.

The airport has bolstered its staffing levels to accomodate the influx of travellers, and is also working with the airline partners to help passengers with their travel.

In order to ensure smooth travel, passengers are encouraged to take some action ahead of time.

• Check-in online
  • Check in, pay fees and retrieve the boarding pass online from home to avoid the lines at the airport
• Plan how to get to YLW
  • Parking at the airport could reach capacity during the holiday travel season, so people are encouraged to pre-book valet services
  • Choose an alternate transportation option for getting to and from the airport such as a taxi, ride-share service, airport shuttle, public transit, or having a friend or family member pick up or drop off
• Know what you can pack in carry-on and checked bags
  • Know what can and cannot be transported in carry-on and checked bags by visiting the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website
  • Ensure prohibited items are not being transported
  • Leave gifts unwrapped so they can be easily inspected
  • Check with the airline to learn about baggage restrictions and fees
• Arrive at the airport early
  • Arrive at the airport at least two hours ahead of domestic flights
  • Arrive at the terminal at least three hours ahead of international flights
• Confirm the airline’s identification requirements
  • Check the required identification and valid travel documents needed for flying on the airline, including the documents needed for children
  • Non-Canadian or American citizens travelling to the Unite States may need to complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorization application

“YLW wants to ensure that everyone who chooses to fly with us this holiday season has a safe and enjoyable journey,” Sam Samaddar, YLW chief executive officer, said.

“That is why we encourage passengers to plan in advance and prepare for longer than normal wait times at the airport during this time.”