Record-Breaking Quarter: YYJ Marks Busiest Period Ever

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) marked its busiest quarter on record – July, August, and September 2025 – with August standing out as the busiest month ever recorded at the airport. In August, YYJ welcomed 227,613 passengers, surpassing all previous monthly totals and continuing a strong trend of record-breaking traffic that carried through September to close out the quarter. The August figure represents an 11.3% increase over August 2024 (204,466 passengers) and exceeded the airport’s forecast of 221,626.

“Breaking the record for the busiest month in our airport’s history is a proud moment for YYJ and the community we serve,” said Elizabeth Brown, President and CEO of the Victoria Airport Authority. “Sustaining that momentum into a record-breaking quarter shows the strength of our region, the resilience of our travel sector, and the continued confidence of passengers, airlines, and partners in YYJ.”

Year-to-date, the airport has welcomed more than 1.51 million passengers – a 6.5% increase over the same period in 2024 – fueled by robust domestic demand, stable traffic to the USA, and strong international routes. The top three destinations by seat capacity so far this year are Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto, reflecting YYJ’s strong connectivity to major Canadian hubs.

YYJ’s airline partners have been key contributors to this growth, highlighted by Porter Airlines launching new non-stop service to Ottawa, and Alaska Airlines adding capacity on its popular Seattle route. WestJet strengthened connections through Calgary and Edmonton, while Pacific Coastal continues to anchor regional connectivity in BC. Air Canada also reinstated its non-stop Montreal service alongside continued links through Vancouver and Toronto. Seasonal service to popular winter sun destinations begins at the end of October, offering travellers expanded options for warm-weather getaways.

Victoria International Airport is the 11th busiest airport in Canada, providing a vital link for business, tourism, and community connections across the region.

About Victoria International Airport (YYJ) Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is Vancouver Island’s gateway to the world, connecting more than 1.9 million passengers annually to key domestic and seasonal international destinations. Operated by Victoria Airport Authority, a not-for-profit, non-share capital organization, YYJ plays a vital role in regional connectivity and economic growth. The Victoria Airport Authority operates from the homeland of the W_SÁNEC people whose historical relationship to the land continues to this day.

Media Contact:
Erin Brocklebank
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250-953-7514