Parking rates at the Comox Valley Airport will increase by an average of 17 per cent at YQQ beginning April 1.
The change is being incorporated to offset rising operational costs associated with inflation, building maintenance and increased passenger numbers.
“We want to be completely transparent about what we are doing. We have not substantially increased parking rates in all lots at YQQ since 2006 and during that time operational costs have risen by 106 per cent,” explained Comox Valley Airport CEO Fred Bigelow.
“While increases in our passenger numbers help to bring in additional revenue from passenger fees, we must also look at other sources of funding to keep our business model healthy and competitive.”
Passengers will see an average 17-per-cent increase from the current parking rates at the airport and the Comox Valley Airport Commission will realize an additional seven per cent due to the elimination of the HST on April 1.
There will also be moderate increases to metered parking.
“We are hopeful this provides sufficient notice for our passengers to plan ahead and incorporate these new parking rates into their overall travel budget,” said Bigelow. “The Comox Valley Airport continues to offer the lowest weekly parking rates of Vancouver Island’s three largest airports.
"We believe this increase is fair and will not deter from the positive passenger experience at YQQ, including our world-class service and daily direct flights with numerous connection opportunities to domestic and international destinations.”
— Comox Valley Airport