Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
History, Facts and Overview

(Vancouver, British Columbia - BC, Canada)

In 1930, land on nearby Sea Island was obtained at considerable cost and the Vancouver Airport of today was born. During the Second World War, the airport saw much expansion and was often referred to as Sea Island Airport, before being officially named 'Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in 1948.

Overseas passenger flights began operating shortly after and during the 1950s, the North Terminal opened to meet demand. Further expansions took place at this time and an additional 3-km / 2-mile runway was also added. The arrival of the 'jet age' in the 1960s saw Vancouver International Airport sold to the Department of Transport and the arrival of a new Air Terminal, at the cost of more than $30 million.


Further improvements have been made to Vancouver's airport over the years, including the building of a major International Terminal in 1996, which featured 16 gates and cost around $250 million. More recent work at Vancouver Airport includes an upgrade of the Domestic Terminal in 2002, costing around $50 million, and record passenger numbers, prompting a staggering $1.5 billion expansion program in 2005.

Facilities at Vancouver International Airport have never been better and those arriving early for their departure will find around 50 different shops, including outlets selling perfumes, golfing equipment and music. With around 40 restaurants, coffee shops and fast-food outlets, you can also be sure that you won't go hungry.