Waterloo Region — Regional Council has approved the YKF Growth Plan, the long term vision and strategy that will guide the airport’s future for the next 20 years. The plan sets a clear direction for how YKF will grow to meet the needs of a growing community, respond to emerging industry opportunities, and strengthen its role as a key economic driver for Waterloo Region.

The YKF Growth Plan outlines work in five key themes:

• YKF as a mobility hub for a growing community: Positioning the airport as an integrated transportation hub, connecting air service, GO Transit, ION, Grand River Transit and inter-city bus through a future terminal vision.
• Just-in-time infrastructure strategy: Building on the success of the 2017 Plan by advancing critical infrastructure behind the scenes to keep pace with growth and respond to evolving industry demand.
• Sustainability and environment: Supporting a more sustainable future by reducing carbon emissions and continuing partnerships that advance environmental stewardship.
• Aerospace sector development: Strengthening support for current and future airport tenants, while helping grow Waterloo Region’s aviation and aerospace sector through AeroWR.
• Managing competing land uses: Advancing Airport Zoning Regulations (AZRs) to support density and protect current and future air service.

“Approving the Growth Plan is an important milestone for the Region of Waterloo International Airport and its continued success,” said Karen Redman, Regional Chair. “This plan positions YKF to better serve residents, visitors and the aerospace and aviation sectors, while helping to support the Region’s long-term economic growth. We thank the many individuals and organizations who shared their perspectives in shaping this comprehensive plan.”

The YKF Growth Plan has been informed through extensive input from residents, passengers, airport tenants, airline partners, business community and Area Municipalities. 

The full plan can be found at: www.waterlooairport.ca/growthplan.