Vancouver, BC - April 10, 2025 - Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has once again solidified its reputation as a world-class travel hub, reclaiming the title of Best Airport in North America at the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. Announced on April 9, 2025, this accolade marks YVR’s 14th win in the past 16 years, highlighting its consistent excellence in passenger experience, operational efficiency, and community engagement. The award, determined by millions of traveller surveys worldwide, reflects the dedication of YVR’s 26,000-strong airport community, from front-line staff to management, in delivering top-tier service.

The airport’s origins date back to 1931, when it was established on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, about 12 kilometres from downtown Vancouver. Initially constructed by the City of Vancouver, the facility emerged from a need to replace a basic grass airstrip at Minoru Park that could no longer support the region’s growing aviation demands. The federal government took over operations later that decade, and by 1940, YVR saw significant expansion with the addition of a terminal and control tower to accommodate increasing air traffic, spurred by wartime needs and the postwar economic boom. Its strategic location on Canada’s West Coast made it an ideal gateway for trans-Pacific travel, a role it continues to play today.

Beyond its regional triumph, YVR soared to 13th place in Skytrax’s global rankings, a notable climb from 17th in 2024. This rise underscores the airport’s ongoing improvements, including its stunning Pier D expansion, which added eight new gates and unique amenities like an enclosed outdoor space in 2022. YVR also earned seventh place worldwide for its art installations, showcasing an extensive collection of First Nations works and the world’s largest Disney figurine exhibit at an airport. Additionally, it ranked second globally among airports handling 20 to 30 million passengers annually, with 26.2 million travellers passing through in 2024—nearing its all-time record.

Located on Sea Island, YVR serves as Canada’s second-busiest airport and a vital trans-Pacific gateway, offering more direct flights to China than any other North American or European airport. Its seamless connectivity, bolstered by the Canada Line SkyTrain linking it to downtown Vancouver in just 26 minutes, enhances its appeal.

The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel, attached to the U.S. transborder terminal, also ranked as North America’s best airport hotel. YVR’s success is a testament to its innovative, not-for-profit governance model and commitment to passenger satisfaction, cultural richness, and sustainability. As Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority, noted, this recognition belongs to the entire team driving YVR’s excellence daily.

#YVR Best Airport #Vancouver Airport #Skytrax 2025 #North America Travel #Airport Excellence #Trans Pacific Gateway #WBN News Vancouver #Elke Porter

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