YVR makes history with two big wins at World Routes conference

Awards recognize YVR's incredible growth and development

RICHMOND, BC, Sept. 26, 2017 /CNW/ - Vancouver International Airport (YVR) was recognized for its outstanding efforts at the 2017 World Routes Marketing Awards, an annual event that celebrates excellence in marketing and development in the aviation industry. For the first time, YVR was the winner in the 20 to 50 Million Passengers category and the Overall Winner, demonstrating the strength of the airport's vision, leadership and growth strategy.

"This is an incredible achievement for our airport, our province and our partners," said Craig Richmond, President & CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority. "I am very proud to see that YVR's efforts have been recognized among our peers on the global stage. These awards are testament to our airport's commitment to providing social and economic benefits to the region, our innovative programs such as ConnectYVR, which lowered airline rates to some of the lowest in North America, and the tireless work of our dedicated team—a team that truly understands our mission of connecting B.C. proudly to the world."

One of the most prestigious events in the aviation industry, the World Routes Marketing Awards recognizes airports that demonstrate exceptional air service development. The award process includes nominations from airlines and industry experts, followed by a comprehensive review by an industry committee that looks for airports that have provided outstanding support for air services and network growth. YVR stood out thanks to its unique approach that focuses on building meaningful relationships with airlines and local communities through strategic partnerships—from sponsoring festivals to delivering activations and volunteering with local charities.

YVR has enjoyed unprecedented growth thanks to its focus on developing new routes and supporting existing services. YVR is North America's fastest-growing international airport, increasing at nearly twice the average rate. In 2016, the airport welcomed a record 22.3 million passengers, a growth of 9.7 per cent, and the airport is on track to meet its ambitious goal of 25 million passengers by 2020.

This growth has created jobs and spurred business activity across the country, making YVR a key driver in the local and national economy. The airport added 18 new services and two new airlines in 2016 and is set to continue this pace in 2017. The airport contributed $10.3 billion in total economic output to the Canadian economy in 2015 and expects this to increase as we welcome more growth over the coming years.

For further details on the World Routes Marketing Awards, visit Routes Online.

YVR

ABOUT VANCOUVER AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served 22.3 million passengers in 2016. Fifty-five airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 125 non-stop destinations worldwide. In 2016, YVR received CAPA Centre for Aviation's prestigious Airport of the Year Award and was voted Best Airport in North America for the eighth consecutive year in the Skytrax World Airport Awards in 2017. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2016 donated more than $1,000,000 to local organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor.

SOURCE Vancouver Airport Authority