news

Cranbrook, BC (September 21, 2026) – Several key improvements and planning initiatives will help make travel easier at the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC), support regional connections and help prepare the airport for future growth.

One of the most visible recent improvements is the completion of the airport parking lot repaving project in early September. The work was finished on schedule and has improved safety, accessibility and the overall first impression for travellers arriving at YXC. The refreshed layout also creates some additional parking capacity within the same area.

Planning is also moving ahead for terminal upgrades. The consultant team is now in place, with OMB providing architectural services, Timber Engineering providing structural engineering, and Smith + Andersen providing electrical and mechanical design. North Mountain Construction, previously selected as Construction Manager, will continue to support the project. The team is now entering pre-construction, which is expected to continue through January, with construction anticipated to be complete by May 2027.

Travellers will also see a new food and beverage option at the airport. Peppergrass Market and Café is preparing to open at YXC, offering a café and gift shop experience that highlights locally sourced products and ingredients wherever possible. The new operation will help showcase the East Kootenay region while supporting local producers.

To support the transition, $20,000 has been included in the airport’s 2026 capital budget for restaurant area improvements and a facility refresh before the new tenant moves in. YXC also plans to relaunch its Local Performing Artist Showcase Program during peak travel periods, giving local musicians and performers a chance to share their talents with passengers and visitors.

YXC has also started work on a new 20-year Airport Master Plan. Airbiz has been selected to lead the planning process, which will look at future growth, infrastructure needs, and service improvements to help the airport continue meeting the needs of passengers, airlines, and the wider community.

“These projects are about making YXC more welcoming, more efficient and better prepared for the future,” says Tristen Chernove, Airport Manager with Elevate Airports Inc. “From improved parking and terminal upgrades to local food options and long-term planning, we are focused on creating a better experience for travellers while supporting the region we serve.”

YXC also continues to play an important role in emergency response. The airport’s Air Tanker Base supports wildfire response efforts across the region, helping aerial firefighting crews protect communities throughout British Columbia.

In July and August 2026, the Air Tanker Base recorded 3,065 aircraft movements related to fire suppression activity.

Passenger activity is also up year over year. So far in 2026, YXC has welcomed 110,656 passengers, compared to 106,154 during the same period in 2025 - a 4.2 per cent increase.

YXC will also carry out a multi-agency, full-scale emergency exercise on October 8, 2026. The exercise will help airport staff and emergency partners test response procedures and continue strengthening emergency preparedness.

Together, these improvements point to an exciting chapter for YXC and the people who rely on it. As the airport continues to welcome travellers, connect the region, and support the local economy, these investments will help create a better experience for passengers and a stronger gateway for Cranbrook and the East Kootenay.

As a self-sustaining facility, the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) builds its own capital reserve to support important improvements like these while continuing to operate without taxpayer funding.