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BCAC 2026 Conference Kelowna: Soaring Above Challenges – Eyes on the Horizon
Registration is open for our spring conference! Visit bit.ly/BCAC26 for updated ticket prices as well as links for discounted hotel rooms at the lakeside Eldorado Hotel and Monteo Resort. (Pro Tip: Book your accommodation ASAP as the CHL Memorial Cup is also taking place in Kelowna in May. Visit the "Hotel Partner" tab on the registration page for information and links.)
When: May 25 - 27th, 2026
Where: Kelowna, BC
Registration & Event Details: bit.ly/BCAC26
We're working diligently with local stakeholders, including Host Airport YLW and Tourism Kelowna, to make this conference one of our best and hope that you'll be able to join us! If you have any questions, or would like to explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact our Executive Director, Dave Frank at your convenience.
Don't miss out! bit.ly/BCAC26
 Host Airport - Kelowna International Airport YLW
Level Up Your Aviation Leadership: Virtual Training on Climate, ESG & Governance
Leadership & Board Training: Climate, ESG, and Governance in Aviation
The British Columbia Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to partner with Synergy Academy to bring you a 3-hour virtual training session designed for aviation leaders, executives, and board members.
Gain practical insights and tools to:
- Navigate climate risks and opportunities in aviation
- Apply ESG frameworks effectively in decision-making
- Strengthen board governance and leadership practices
- Make future-ready, sustainability-focused decisions
Plus: Participants receive a Certificate of Completion to recognize their professional development.
Date: February 26, 2026.
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM PT
Format: Virtual (Zoom)
Member Rate: $249.00
Non-member Rate: $299.00
Limited seats! Reserve your spot today and lead aviation into a resilient future.
Register Now
YLW’s New Departures Lounge Set to Welcome Travellers
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is proud to announce the new departures lounge and security screening checkpoint will open to travellers beginning Jan. 28. The expansion, which adds an additional 5,590 square metres of new space to the terminal building, marks a major milestone for YLW’s largest infrastructure project to date and the future of air travel in the Okanagan.
“This terminal expansion is an important milestone for Kelowna and the Okanagan,” said Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas. “YLW is a critical gateway that supports jobs, tourism, and economic growth, and this investment will help ensure we can continue welcoming more visitors and connecting our community to opportunities across Canada and beyond.”
When the terminal expansion opens, passengers will notice:
- Expanded Departures Lounge with new direct access to several gates for departing and arriving passengers
- Expanded security screening area with new CT X-ray technology to support increased capacity and screening efficiencies
- Improved food and beverage options, with the opening of the pre-security Ellison Field Taphouse and Vintners Exchange in the departures area
- Improved wayfinding and upgraded digital displays throughout the terminal
- Contemporary design featuring B.C. mass timber to showcase our region’s natural beauty, heritage and character, supported by a $500,000 grant from B.C.’s Mass Timber Demonstration Program
"I am proud to celebrate the opening of our expanded terminal and will raise the travel experience for our valued passengers," said Sam Samaddar, CEO of Kelowna International Airport. "But this opening is really just the beginning. Over the next year, work will continue in areas of the existing terminal as we renovate 1,200 square metres, making improvements and adding new amenities to further benefit our passengers. We appreciate our traveller’s patience as we continue to work to deliver a world-class airport experience for everyone.”
The Airport Terminal Building (ATB) Expansion project, Phase 1, is scheduled to be fully complete by the end of 2026. Passengers will continue to see construction activities at YLW as this project progresses. Additional amenities will include a new washroom concourse, pet relief station and new ‘grab-and-go’ food & beverage options. YLW thanks passengers for their continued patience as work progresses.
The $108 million project is funded through fees paid by Airport users and will have no taxation impact to Kelowna taxpayers. To learn more about the project, visit ylw.kelowna.ca/atb.
Quotes
Hon. Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defense Procurement (Kelowna MP) - Federal
“YLW’s expansion marks an important milestone for Kelowna and for air travel across the Okanagan. With over 2 million passengers moving through the airport in 2025, the expansion will support tourism, job creation, and better serve families and businesses. Today’s announcement underscores YLW’s role in driving our region’s connectivity and economic growth.”
Hon. Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth - Provincial
“Through our Look West plan, our goal is to expand B.C. manufacturing and triple the amount of B.C. wood used in construction in the next ten years. The Kelowna International Airport expansion exemplifies the economic impacts we can create by using locally sourced, value-added mass timber construction. This project leverages products and services from eight companies across B.C., helping create and sustain good jobs in Kelowna, Vancouver, and Castlegar, and ensuring the benefits stay within the province.”
Paul Choi, Parliamentary Secretary for Trade - Provincial
“This airport is a gateway for trade and tourism, and this new expansion shows our world class construction expertise and welcomes visitors from around the world into a uniquely British Columbian building. By investing in modern infrastructure, we are showcasing local innovation and creating opportunities for local businesses to succeed.”
Hon. Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests - Provincial
"Next time you’re flying into Kelowna, get ready to be amazed, the new terminal is a beauty,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “Built with locally sourced mass timber, it shows off the sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship B.C.’s forestry sector is known for. Congrats to YLW on this big milestone.”
Neil Parry, President and Chief Executive Officer (Interim), CATSA
“Kelowna International Airport’s new expanded and upgraded security screening checkpoint represents an important advancement in passenger screening. As a result of our strong partnership with the YLW airport team, CATSA is proud to have implemented a state-of-the-art CT X-ray technology across all four screening lines, making it the first airport of its size in Canada to receive a full CT deployment. This technology offers 3D imaging, which improves threat detection, and delivers a more efficient screening experience by allowing passengers to leave permitted liquids, laptops, electronics and medical devices in their carry-on bags.”
About YLW
Kelowna International Airport operates as the 9th busiest airport in Canada, offering direct flights to 22 destinations, both domestic and international, with eight airlines. YLW operates on a low-cost business model, which helps to support air service development. YLW is one of the single largest economic drivers for jobs and revenues in BC’s southern interior and generated $2.08 billion in total economic output in 2024 (YLW’s 2024 Economic Impact Study).
For more information, contact:
Jeff Ramsden, Communications Advisor
Kelowna International Airport (YLW)
250-317-0579
(Source: City of Kelowna Press Release. Photos/Jeff Ramsden)
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD: ON THE FUTURE OF ADS-B IN CANADA
Below is information on the new NAV CANADA study regarding the future of ADS-B in Canadian airspace.
Click here for an overview of the project.
The primary objective is to evaluate ADS-B (Out) below 12,500 ft in Class C, D, and E airspace. They will not implement/mandate this until at least 2028, so your input is vital regarding operational feasibility, advantages, disadvantages, and cost. There is no plan to require ADS-B in Class G airspace.
Click here to take 17 question survey now!
Click here if you would like to review the whole survey in PDF format.
Additional comments may be made to studies.etudes@navcanada.ca
The deadline to complete the survey is February 9, 2026.
(Source: NAV CANADA. Photo/Aviation International News online)
Join the BC Aviation Council Community!
Since 1938, the BCAC has promoted the shared interests of the aviation and aerospace community in British Columbia. The BCAC supports the future of the industry by administering the largest aviation and aerospace scholarship program in Canada, enabling hard-working students to achieve their goals.
 (Left to Right: Harvie Buitelaar, BCAC Silver Wings event chair, Kainoa Laimana, Bain and Brown Aviation Career Scholarship winner (2024), Cathy Press, BCAC board chair)
As well, the BCAC liaises with government, industry leaders and stakeholders to advance and promote the aviation and aerospace industry in BC. With over 1,100 Individual and Corporate Supporting Members, and another 7,000 Supporters, the BCAC represents a wide-range of industry sectors and is the oldest and most active regional aviation and aerospace council in the country.
 (Left to Right: BC Premier, David Eby, BC Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, Brenda Bailey (former), BCAC Board Chair, Heather J. McCarley (former), President & CEO, YVR, Tamara Vrooman; Musqueam Chief and Board Chair of Musqueam Capital Corporation (MCC), Wayne Sparrow.)
The BCAC offers numerous Supporter benefits including year-round deals on hotel accommodations, car rentals and airport parking/valet services, as well as discounted rates for our annual Spring Conference and Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration events.
More information about Supporter categories and benefits are available here.
Need assistance? Our Executive Director, Dave Frank, would be pleased to help!
(Photos/Brendan McAlpine, Steve Drinkwater)
 Blackcomb Helicopters’ heliport in Whistler, BC.
Summit Helicopters Expands Operations with Acquisition of Blackcomb Helicopters
Summit Helicopters, a leading provider of remote helicopter services across Canada, today announced the acquisition of Blackcomb Helicopters that adds seven helicopters and additional bases in Whistler and Squamish to its growing fleet.
The acquisition significantly increases Summit’s operational capacity along the Sea to Sky corridor and beyond, as the company will assume operations for Blackcomb’s existing utility, film, firefighting, and emergency response activities. Summit will also operate Blackcomb’s highly sought-after sightseeing and charter tours.
“We are very excited to be adding Blackcomb’s talent and experience to our operations at Summit,” said Peter Rice, Vice President of Summit Helicopters. “This move expands our services, adds valuable fleet assets to our operations, and creates opportunities for the continued growth of our business.”
The seven helicopters operating out of Whistler and Squamish will continue to support both long-term contracts and short-notice community needs while maintaining a focus on safety, reliability, and customer service.
The transition is expected to be seamless for Blackcomb’s existing clients and the community. All current operations will continue without interruption, and Blackcomb employees have already transitioned over to Summit, preserving local operational expertise and existing client relationships.
“The value of this acquisition goes beyond adding people and aircraft,” said Lane Zirnhelt, Chief Operating Officer of Summit Aviation, “it brings together complementary operations and experienced teams to build a stronger, more versatile organization.”
Blackcomb will continue to operate under its existing branding, in recognition of the excellent services and reputation that the Sea to Sky community has come to know and trust.
About Summit Helicopters
Summit Helicopters delivers safe and reliable remote helicopter aviation solutions across Canada with one of the largest and most diverse fleets in the industry. Their versatile fleet is meticulously maintained and operated by experienced crews who are adept at navigating challenging environments. From the coastal mountains of British Columbia to the Arctic, Summit Helicopters provides tailored solutions for a variety of needs, including mineral exploration, utility work, wildfire support, and medevacs, ensuring projects run smoothly and safely.
Summit is a member of The Ledcor Group of Companies. The Ledcor Group of Companies is one of North America's most diversified construction companies, serving the civil & infrastructure, oil & gas, pipeline, building, mining, power, and telecommunications sectors. Ledcor also owns operations in property investment, aviation, and marine transportation services.
Media Contact Summit Inquiries
Peter Rice, Vice-president, Summit Helicopters
info@summithelicopters.ca 250-554-6413
Ledcor Media contact: Media@ledcor.com
(Source: Summit Helicopters. Photo/Heath Moffatt, Vertical Magazine)
SUPPORTER PROFILE
Iskwew Air + Advanced Air Mobility
Electric aviation is not a future concept – it is already here and operating today.
At Iskwew Air connection is the heart of everything we do. Through our scheduled services, charter flights and cargo operations, we connect people to each other and to the land supporting regional mobility, community well-being and economic prosperity.
Our leadership team is actively involved in on-going discussions with regional airports, and airport authorities, across British Columbia, including the Town of Qualicum Beach. These conversations focus on the benefits of sustainable aviation practices, and the importance of building resilient airport infrastructure that will support today's operational needs while preparing for the integration of emerging, low emission technologies.
We are exploring how innovation can align airport development plans with regional economic growth, climate conscious strategies and the future of air transportation.
One key area shaping these discussions is Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Transport Canada defines AAM as a term that refers to new ways of moving people, goods and services by air.
In Canada this work is being advanced through the Canadian Advanced Air Mobility Consortium (CAAM) the federal industry association for advanced air mobility nationwide. Iskwew Air is proud to be a founding member of CAAM, contributing our operational expertise, Indigenous ways of being and community-focused perspective to help shape the future of aviation in Canada.
We are also one of only three Aircraft Maintenance Organizations (AMO) in the country authorized to work on electric aircraft positioning Iskwew Air at the forefront of sustainable aviation.
Together with CAAM members and regional partners, Iskwew Air is helping integrate electric and advanced air mobility into existing aviation systems in a way that supports community connection, Indigenous leadership and a climate-conscious future for more sustainable air transportation.
(Source: Iskwew Air. Photos/Pipistrel, Iskwew Air)
SUPPORTER PROFILE
Conair Delivers 27th Dash 8-400 Firefighting Plane
Ready to support firefighters ahead of the wildfire season
Conair Group Inc., the world’s largest private operator of fixed-wing firefighting aircraft, has now converted 27 Dash 8-400s into airtankers for wildfire suppression. Demand remains high, with every Dash 8-400AT (airtanker-only) and Dash 8-400MRE (multi-role) purchased or contracted by government agencies as the aircraft are completed.
“Of those 27, we have converted and delivered 22 in the past five years alone from our hangars in Abbotsford, British Columbia, a testament to the strength of our engineering, production, maintenance and supply chain teams” shares Michael Benson, Director, Business Development, at Conair. “This production rate is unmatched around the world by producers of large land-based airtankers or water scooping aircraft. And we can increase production if needed, working with government and industry partners as nations look to retire aging firefighting fleets or enhance water scooper fleets with retardant capability.”
Water scoopers, such as the Fire Boss and CL415, skim water sources, dropping water on flames to cool a fire’s intensity. Land-based airtankers, including the Canadian-made Dash 8-400 airtanker, drop retardant around the perimeter of a fire, slowing combustion. The aircraft work together, performing complementary roles, buying firefighters on the ground time to dig containment lines. Western North America and nations in Europe, including France, rely on both water-scooping aircraft and retardant-dropping airtankers to handle increasingly difficult wildfire conditions.
“We have been building the airtanker for 20 years” Benson continues. “We began production in 2005 exporting the first multi-role airtanker to the French Government, who now own and operate 8 Dash 8-400MRE airtankers, responding to a range of crises, with the airtanker converting between passenger, cargo, combi and medevac roles. They can evacuate citizens, ship supplies, transport patients, and reposition crews, plus fight wildfire. It is an aircraft that offers both civilian and defense benefits, for the safety and security of citizens.”
The Dash 8-400AT airtanker flies as fast as a jet to wildfires but burns significantly less fuel, delivering more than double the payload for fuel burned than other large airtankers. It operates off shorter, 5,000’ runways, more numerous in remote regions, often located closer to where wildfires occur for a fast response. And its powerful turbo prop engines provide a fast exit and climb after drops, essential for safe operations in the wildfire environment. It is a flexible, reliable solution for governments around the world looking to mitigate risk, adding another response capability to their arsenal.
(Source/Photos: Conair Aerial Firefighting)
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