The Victoria Airport Authority plans to increase its airport improvement fee from $15 to $25. (Black Press Media file photo)

YYJ improvement fees set to climb $10, going to $25 per passenger

February 11, 2024 // by Peninsula News Staff

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Flying out of Victoria International Airport will cost $10 more starting in April – the first increase in YYJ’s airport improvement fee since 2015.

The Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) plans to increase the fee from $15 to $25 on tickets sold on or after April 1 for travel from the airport after May 1. The fee is added by air carriers to tickets for passengers leaving from the airport in North Saanich.

Last adjusted in 2015, funds support investments and improvements to passenger and airline infrastructure in the terminal building and airfield. Since then, the authority has spent more than $15 million in eligible projects beyond what was collected, according to the VAA.

“Victoria International Airport is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels of passenger travel in 2025, and revenue generated by other sources will not be enough for VAA to keep up with the ongoing infrastructure and facility improvements needed to ensure a high-quality passenger experience,” board chair Cathie Ounsted said in a news release.

The VAA master plan, spanning 2023 to 2042, includes a long-term strategy for development to meet the growth predicted for both the region and Vancouver Island. The plan shows almost $600 million in capital investments could be required – an average of $30 million a year over the next 20 years.

“This increase will allow us to be both strategic and intentional with our investments in infrastructure improvements. It is important that we continue to provide an outstanding passenger experience for travellers and a welcoming airport for the community,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, VAA president and CAO.

Victoria International Airport is expected to exceed 3 million total passengers by 2042.

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