Despite fewer flights to the United States, Region of Waterloo Airport still posts third-highest year for passengers

The Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF) on Sept. 11, 2025. (Dan Lauckner/CTV News)

Despite some turmoil in the travel industry, many people are still choosing to fly out of the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

In a news release on Wednesday, the region said more than 426,500 passengers used the airport in 2025, adding up to YKF’s third-highest passenger total on record. It comes at a time when some people are choosing to stay closer to home, either due to the tariffs imposed by the United States or the increasing living costs.

“In 2025, YKF had 145,313 takeoffs and landings, making YKF one of the top 10 busiest airports in the country for runway activity,” the release said.

When the airport’s popularity soars, the money it generates helps pay for improvements, such as the recent terminal upgrades.

“YKF can now handle up to one million passengers a year without increasing operating costs. This means the airport is better prepared to meet changing travel needs in the future,” the release said.

Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing and Flair Airlines all offer travel options out of the Breslau location, including the Air Canada motor coach, which connects passengers to Toronto’s Pearson Airport.