The Prince George Airport saw an almost 14 per cent increase in air travellers in 2021, compared to 2020, according to data released by the airport last week.
However, the number of travellers was still less than half of pre-pandemic levels. The airport served a total of 201,506 passengers in 2021, up from 176,994 the previous year. However, between 2017 and 2019, the airport averaged 500,775 passengers per year.
While air traffic was up slightly overall, the months between April and September, and December all saw increases in travellers compared to 2020.
“We are cautiously optimistic as we head into the new year that we will continue to see the recovery trend that started mid-way through 2021” airport president and CEO Gordon Duke said in a press release. “The federal government has put regulations in place, such as masks and requiring proof of vaccination, in order to help make travel safer for everyone. The safety of our passengers, staff, and airport tenants is of utmost importance to us.”
Last year Whitecap RSC Medical opened a COVID-19 testing facility at the airport to provide testing to the public and staff.
Farmhouse catering opened Gourmet Express in the airport’s departure lounge area last year, and will be making improvements to the airport restaurant in the pre-security area that are expected to open this year.
In addition, Copilot has announced plans to open the world’s first airport cannabis retailer in Prince George. That proposal will be going to a public hearing before city council for rezoning.
