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Ongoing Operations Contribute $1.9 Billion to Canada GDP annually
Richmond, B.C. (May 12, 2011): Today, at its Annual Public Meeting, Vancouver Airport Authority released the results of its recent Economic Impact Assessment Report that highlights how operations at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) financially benefit the communities it serves.
In 2010, YVR provided more than 23,600 direct jobs or $1 billion in wages for a direct impact of $1.9 billion to the national economy in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). The study demonstrates the significant economic contribution of YVR to the community, province and country and underscores the importance of Vancouver Airport Authority aggressive plan to grow international traffic.
I am extremely proud of what YVR has accomplished in one of the most important years in British Columbia history, said Mary Jordan, Chair of Vancouver Airport Authority. As we look to the future, we’re focused on building on that Olympic success to promote YVR as a premier North American gateway that contributes to the financial health of our community and country.
YVR Asia-Pacific gateway strategy includes a goal to double international air service in the next five years, build connectivity by reducing connection times for passengers travelling through YVR en route to other destinations, and work with various levels of government and business partners to encourage traffic growth.
That 2010 was an exciting and successful year for YVR is undeniable, but we do have challenges ahead as we strive to grow B.C. connectivity to the world and the economic benefits associated with air service links around the globe, said Larry Berg, President and CEO. As new long-range aircraft extend carriers’ reach into North America, competition is increasing amongst other airports vying for gateway status. It is therefore critical that we continue to do everything we can to maintain and grow our international routes.
Highlights of the Annual Report were also presented at the Annual Public Meeting and showcased the volume of passengers and cargo that moved through YVR in 2010. In total, 16.8 million passengers were served, with 255,000 take-offs and landings occurring on YVR two parallel and one cross-wind runway; seaplane and helicopter movements bring that total up to 293,000. March 1, 2010 was the busiest day in YVR history, with 37,000 passengers departing on the day after the Olympic closing ceremonies. Meanwhile, the Airport Authority continued commitment to improving the YVR experience was recognized by passengers with a best-ever average customer satisfaction rating of 90 per cent.
The Annual Public Meeting also saw the departure of four members of the Vancouver Airport Authority Board of Directors. Chair Mary Jordan acknowledged and thanked Graham Clarke, Rhys Eyton, Philip Owen and John Watson for their many years of service to the Airport Authority.
The full 2010 Annual and Sustainability Report, highlights of the 2010 Economic Impact Assessment Report and video coverage of the Annual Public Meeting are available at www.yvr.ca.
About Vancouver Airport Authority
Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that operates Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada’s second busiest airport, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) served 16.8 million passengers in 2010 and handled more than 293,000 aircraft landings and take-offs. Sixty-eight airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to 121 destinations in Canada, the U.S. and around the world. The Airport Authority is committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor.
