YVR, BC Ferries expecting busy travel day
Posted December 22, 2023 7:42 am.
Last Updated December 22, 2023 9:05 pm.
Friday is set to be one of the busiest travel days of the holiday season, as many get out of town for some time off.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) says it is expecting more than 74,500 passengers through its halls on Dec. 22.
Christmas Day is expected to see over 64,000 travellers, while Boxing Day is set to bring more than 68,000 travellers.
“In the month of December, we’re expecting about two million passengers, which is 250,000 more than what we saw in the same month last year,” explained Tamara Vrooman, president and CEO of YVR.
“We’re really excited to see the traffic coming back, it’s really rebounded quite quickly … it’s actually international travel that’s still lagging a bit.”
Holiday travel last year was marred by chaos at the airport following a massive snowstorm. This year, however, Vrooman is assuring travellers, saying YVR isn’t anticipating any major delays and cancellations, with the weather much warmer and the airport itself being better prepared.
“The weather forecast is very mild for the Vancouver region, so we’re not anticipating the same weather conditions that caused us problems last year. Our two busiest routes are actually from Calgary and Toronto, so those two cities can see winter weather even if we don’t.”
Passengers are still being advised to give themselves ample time getting to the airport and through security screening.
YVR is also reminding travellers to confirm reservations with their airlines before their trip and to check-in for flights online before coming to the airport, if possible.
Meanwhile, BC Ferries is also gearing up for a busy few days. The company is recommending travellers make a reservation sooner than later.
BC Ferries says Dec. 23, 26, and 27, are expected to be the busiest days over the holiday period. The New Year’s weekend is also set to see high volume.
The company has said it is adding 152 extra sailings between Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast over the holidays, so extra space will be available for many who haven’t made a booking.
In addition to reserving and planning ahead, BC Ferries recommends people check conditions before their planned sailings in case of any delays or cancellations. Passengers are asked to arrive early, and consider carpooling or taking transit to ferry terminals as parking will be limited.
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-With files from Cecilia Hua and Cole Schisler
