Region of Waterloo International Airport

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the gateway of opportunity

Located in the heart of Waterloo Region, YKF is not just an airport — it is a launch pad for innovation, investment and regional growth. In recent years YKF has experienced rapid expansion: in 2024 it welcomed over 523,000 passengers, a 17.5% increase over 2023 and a 554% increase compared to 2019.

With its ambitious Master Plan and runway, terminal and infrastructure upgrades underway, YKF is positioned to support the region’s economic ecosystem — from aerospace research and manufacturing to advanced mobility and global connectivity.

The runway to innovation

Recent expansion includes a domestic arrivals building, expanded departure lounge and improved inspections for international arrivals.

This means greater capacity for commercial service, stronger aviation-aerospace operations and increased appeal for companies who rely on air connectivity, mobility, and global market access.

YFK Matters

For the AeroWR initiative and the broader Waterloo Region ecosystem, YKF isn’t simply a transit hub — it’s a cornerstone asset that:

Builds regional competitiveness, enabling companies to connect globally, ship goods, and attract talent.

Serves as a testbed for future aviation-aerospace innovation, including advanced air mobility, sustainable operations and airport ecosystems.

Anchors the region’s infrastructure, reinforcing the advanced manufacturing, robotics, and autonomy strengths that define Waterloo Region.

Rising to the future

As YKF gears toward supporting one million passengers annually by 2026, its potential extends far beyond passenger numbers. With infrastructure ready to scale, the region is preparing for:

Expanded commercial and cargo service that opens new markets and logistics opportunities.

Partnerships with aerospace companies and R&D institutions leveraging runway access, airspace, proximity to the tech cluster, and innovation-mindset.

Sustainable airport operations, carbon-reduction solutions, and new mobility concepts that align with the region’s net-zero ambitions.

Advanced manufacturing and supply-chain growth enabled by direct air links, manufacturing-to-flight integration, and global connectivity.

Ready to partner

The infrastructure is in place, the growth momentum is real, and the region is welcoming. Let’s make Waterloo Region the seat of Canada’s next-generation flight ecosystem.

collaborations@aerowr.ca