YYC Calgary International Airport Welcomes Record-breaking 16-millionth Passenger in One Year on The Airport’s Busiest Travel Day of The Season

December 22, 2017   |  

For the first time in its 25-year history, YYC crosses the mark of 16 million passengers in single calendar year 

Calgary, Alberta - YYC Calgary International Airport’s 16-millionth passenger travelled through the terminal on the airport’s busiest travel day of the season. To celebrate the occasion, The Calgary Airport Authority thanked travellers and airport guests with a “Sweet 16” themed candy buffet in addition to a special surprise for passengers heading to Belize.  

“Surpassing 16 million passengers in one year represents a significant moment for the airport and for the city of Calgary,” said Bob Sartor, President and CEO for The Calgary Airport Authority. “The growth of our airport is symbolic of the improvements in both the business and tourism sectors which helps drive the economy forward, and is why we wanted to thank our passengers for choosing YYC as their destination of choice.”

Passengers waiting to board WestJet’s flight from Calgary to Belize on Friday morning enjoyed a few more surprises at the gate, recognizing the 16-millionth passengers would be someone aboard. All passengers waiting to board the flight were given a special gift package for use on their next trip through YYC including: YYC Bucks and a 1-week parking pass. The Calgary International Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel generously provided a 1-night complimentary stay for passengers and crew, and WestJet provided a free pair of tickets anywhere they fly to one lucky guest on the flight.

“Congratulations to the Calgary Airport Authority for reaching 16 million passengers,” said Ed Sims, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Commercial. “WestJet is proud to play a part in this momentous occasion.”

“As an important part of the Airport community we wanted to celebrate this milestone achievement with passengers and the YYC Calgary International Airport.  We wanted to make this a memorable travel experience by giving all passengers on board, including the crew a convenient one night stay to enhance their pre-or post-getaway,” said Dan DeSantis, General Manager, Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel.

Over the last 20 years, YYC has doubled in size and passenger volumes and with its new International Terminal it is positioned for future growth. This will allow its airline and airport partners to grow with it, offering its guests new experiences, and bringing more destinations to Albertans that choose to fly YYC.

Photo of White Hat Volunteers giving a YYC gift to a guest

Photo of White Hat Volunteers at candy bar

Photo of White Hat Volunteer at candy bar

ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Calgary Airport Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport and Springbank Airport (YBW). YYC is an important economic engine for the city, region and province, welcoming 15.7 million passengers in 2016, supporting more than 48,000 jobs and generating more than $8 billion per annum in economic activity.

Twitter: @FlyYYC

For more information contact:

Media Relations
The Calgary Airport Authority
media@yyc.com
P: 403 735 5899