News Release - September 23, 2025

Record-Breaking Summer Travel Season Wraps Up at Comox Valley Airport

The Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) has set new records this summer, welcoming more passengers through the terminal than ever before. June, July, and August each marked the busiest months on record for our respective periods, culminating in more than 50,000 passengers in August alone – the highest single month in airport history.

This record-setting summer was shaped by high levels of leisure and family travel and bolstered by the popularity of YQQ’s direct seasonal flights connecting to Toronto Pearson International Airport. This midday service from WestJet Airlines, which operated through the peak summer travel period, had strong support from both Island travellers and visitors.

Passenger traffic this summer grew 17% in June, 16% in July, and 15% in August compared to the same months in 2024. Year-to-date, overall volumes are 14% higher than last year, placing YQQ firmly on pace for a record-breaking 2025. Eight of the airport’s last 11 months were record highs, and we are projected to surpass the previous all-time record of 420,811 passengers set in 2018 by a significant margin.

"We are incredibly proud to see the community and visitors alike making such strong use of the services available at YQQ," says Comox Valley Airport Commission Board Chair Bill Anglin. "Setting new records month after month this summer is a clear signal that the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island are thriving and connected regions. The success of our direct Toronto service in particular highlights how important these nonstop connections are for families, business, and tourism."

The growth reflects the strength of the Comox Valley and northern Vancouver Island as both a tourism destination and a convenient gateway for local residents. Looking ahead, YQQ is preparing for the return of another popular seasonal route, with direct flights to Puerto Vallarta resuming in October. The nonstop service offers Island travellers easy access to a favourite winter sun destination, while continuing to expand the airport’s role as a regional travel hub.

About YQQ

YQQ serves passengers from central and northern Vancouver Island with its daily direct flights through British Columbia and Alberta, 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