Several improvements are underway at Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook, including terminal upgrades, a new café operator and development of a 20-year master plan.
The airport completed a parking lot repaving project in early September, which officials said has improved safety and accessibility while adding some parking capacity within the existing area.
Planning is also underway for terminal upgrades. OMB will provide architectural services, Timber Engineering will provide structural engineering and Smith + Andersen will handle electrical and mechanical design.
North Mountain Construction, previously selected as construction manager, will continue to support the project.
Pre-construction work is expected to continue through January, with construction anticipated to be completed by May 2027.
Travellers will also see a new food and beverage option at the airport, with Peppergrass Market and Café preparing to open a café and gift shop featuring locally sourced products and ingredients where possible.
The airport has included $20,000 in its 2026 capital budget for improvements to the restaurant area and a facility refresh before the new tenant moves in.
YXC also plans to relaunch its Local Performing Artist Showcase Program during peak travel periods, providing local musicians and performers with an opportunity to perform for passengers and visitors.
Meanwhile, work has started on a new 20-year Airport Master Plan. Airbiz has been selected to lead the process, which will examine future growth, infrastructure needs and service improvements.
“These projects are about making YXC more welcoming, more efficient and better prepared for the future,” said Tristen Chernove, airport manager with Elevate Airports Inc. “From improved parking and terminal upgrades to local food options and long-term planning, we are focused on creating a better experience for travellers while supporting the region we serve.”
The airport also serves as an air tanker base for wildfire response in the region. Officials said the base recorded 3,065 aircraft movements related to fire suppression during July and August.
Passenger traffic has also increased year over year. The airport reported 110,656 passengers so far in 2026, compared with 106,154 during the same period last year, an increase of about 4.2 per cent.
YXC is also scheduled to hold a multi-agency, full-scale emergency exercise on Oct. 8 to test response procedures with emergency partners.
The City of Cranbrook said the airport is self-sustaining and builds its own capital reserve to fund improvements while operating without taxpayer funding.
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