A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Comox Valley Airport has been released.
The study highlights the airport’s role in supporting jobs, business activity, tourism and economic growth across the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island.
Comox Valley Airport chief executive officer Mike Atkins said the airport is an important piece of regional infrastructure that helps connect communities with opportunities across Canada and internationally.
“As our region continues to grow, maintaining strong and reliable air service will remain essential to supporting economic development and quality of life.”
The study found the airport’s civilian operations contribute $312 million in annual economic output and support nearly 1,700 jobs in the region.
The airport welcomed nearly 450,000 passengers in 2025, setting a new record and making it the second-busiest airport on Vancouver Island.
Airport officials said they continue to expand connectivity with destinations across Canada and Mexico, serving as a transportation hub for residents, businesses and essential services on central and northern Vancouver Island.
The study found airport activity supports employment in a range of sectors, including tourism, hospitality, transportation, construction, aviation, professional services and retail.
Key findings in the study include:
- 1,690 jobs supported across the region
- $90.7 million in annual wages and salaries
- $168.9 million contributed to regional GDP
- $312 million in total annual economic output
- $206.5 million in annual visitor spending
The study was completed by InterVISTAS Consulting Inc. and measures the direct, indirect and induced economic benefits generated by airport-related activity.
