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WestCabs

Kelowna Airport (YLW) Transportation Guide — 2025

  • Jul 30, 2025
  • 3 min read


Flying into Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and wondering how to get around? Whether you are visiting the Okanagan for business, vacation, skiing at Big White, or seeing family, this guide explains all of your airport transportation options — with clear pricing expectations, travel times, and local tips.

Kelowna Airport is one of the busiest airports in Western Canada and serves passengers traveling to:

  • Kelowna

  • West Kelowna

  • Peachland

  • Lake Country

  • Vernon

  • Big White Ski Resort

  • Surrounding Okanagan communities

If you want the simplest and fastest option, taxis are available right at the arrivals area — and WestCabs operates 24/7.


About Kelowna International Airport (YLW)

Official Airport Website:https://ylw.kelowna.ca

YLW offers:

  • Domestic & international flights

  • Car rentals

  • Food & coffee services

  • Accessibility services

  • Arrivals and departures information


Option 1 — WestCabs Airport Taxi Service (Most Convenient)

Taking a WestCabs taxi from Kelowna Airport is the fastest and easiest way to get to your hotel, home, or resort. Taxis are located directly outside the arrivals terminal, and drivers can assist with luggage.

Why choose our taxi vs. other options?

  • 24/7 availability

  • Direct pickup at the terminal curb

  • No need to worry about parking

  • Professional licensed drivers

  • No surge pricing compared to some other options

  • Ideal if you are traveling with luggage, skis, or family, we can cater our service to you

WestCabs Service Area

We provide service to:

  • Kelowna

  • West Kelowna

  • Peachland

  • Lake Country

  • Big White connections

Book a taxi now

📱 Call or text WestCabs: 778-754-8888📲 Download the WestCabs App on iOS & Android

You can prebook or book when you land.




Okay, we get it sometimes a taxi may not work for your particular situation so here are an additional two options


Option 2 — Airport Shuttle & Hotel Transfers

Some hotels and private companies offer shuttle services.

Useful resources:

Shuttles can be a good option for group travel; however:

  • They may require advance booking

  • They run on fixed schedules

  • They may not run late at night or early mornings

Taxis remain the most flexible 24/7 choice.


Option 3 — Car Rentals at Kelowna Airport

Several rental car agencies operate directly at YLW.

This option is best if you plan to:

  • Drive long distances around the region

  • Stay several days and explore multiple towns

  • Prefer to self-drive

However, keep in mind:

  • Winter roads can be icy and mountainous

  • Parking downtown or at hotels can be limited

  • Wine touring + driving is not recommended





🕒 Average Travel Times From YLW Airport

Destination

Average Travel Time

Downtown Kelowna

15–20 minutes

West Kelowna

25–35 minutes

Lake Country

10–20 minutes

Peachland

40–50 minutes

Big White Ski Resort

55–65 minutes

Traffic, weather, and time of day may affect travel times.

Accessible Transportation Options

Kelowna offers accessibility support at the airport:

If you require a wheelchair-accessible taxi, you can request one with advance notice.

📱 Call or text WestCabs: 778-754-8888

We will do our best to coordinate accessible service where available.



Tips for Smooth Airport Transportation

  • Book your ride ahead during peak seasons (Christmas, summer, long weekends)

  • Allow extra time in winter due to snow conditions

  • Confirm child seats in advance if required

  • For groups or ski equipment, request larger vehicles


Make Your Airport Trip Simple With WestCabs

Whether you are catching a flight or just landing at YLW, WestCabs makes airport transportation easy, safe, and reliable.

📱 Call or text: 778-754-8888📲 WestCabs App available on iOS & Android

Serving Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country, and Big White connections.

 
 
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