Airport Growth Plan
Planning today to serve Waterloo Region better tomorrow
An Airport Growth Plan is a tool used by airports to plan for future development, which includes:
- maximizing existing infrastructure
- managing increased air service; and,
- protecting for future growth
Regional Council approved the Airport Master Plan in April 2017. This will ensure that the airport can:
- Meet the travel needs of our own growing community; and
- Respond to capacity challenges at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Unlike traditional airport master planning, we used a 'just-in-time' approach. A pre-set passenger volume is required for five development stages. This approach makes the most of existing infrastructure while managing financial risk. This allows YKF to respond to industry changes without compromising customer service.
Recent Progress
The Region has been developing based on the 2017 Airport Master Plan. Recent projects include:
- Air Service Development
- Terminal Building Expansion
- Federal Airport Zoning Regulations Update
- Master Servicing Study
- Runway 14-32 Extensions Assessment and Design
- Terminal Expansion Feasibility and Site Selection Study
- Parking Expansion
- Natural Heritage Management Plan
Airport Growth Plan Update
We are currently in the process of updating the Airport Growth Plan. Please visit the EngageWR page to find out more. The Airport Growth Plan is expected to return to Regional Council for review and final approval in early 2026.
The Growth Plan is being updated to ensure YKF development aligns with industry demand and the substantial growth projected for the population of Waterloo Region.
The Airport has experienced significant growth since 2017. 523,210 passengers travelled through YKF, a 17.5% increase over 2023, and a 554% increase over 2019. Since 2019, YKF has experienced the fastest growth of all Canadian airports and consistently ranks as one of the top 20 busiest airports in the country.
Overall, YKF has a unique opportunity to position itself as a rising aviation industry leader. As air traveller numbers are forecast to rise significantly in Southern Ontario over the next two decades, the airport system must grow to meet this demand. YKF is a strong candidate to be the primary alternative for travellers in Southern Ontario, when Toronto Pearson reaches capacity.
YKF is well positioned to capture some of this growth and play a larger role in the system of airports, reaping major economic benefits for the community. Airports are significant drivers of economic impact and rival major manufacturing facilities when it comes to assessing these benefits.
Public consultation boards used to generate public feedback.
Sign up for updates by sending a request to Airport Growth Plan Implementation: AirportMasterPlan@regionofwaterloo.ca
2017 Master Plan Documents
Accessible formats and communication support are available for all documents. Please phone 519-575-4400 to request an alternate format.