The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Yorkton airport sees slight traffic increase a year after $2.3M terminal upgrade
It’s been one year since the Yorkton Regional Airport opened its Popowich Terminal, with its performance exceeding expectations, according to the city.
The Yorkton Regional Airport marked one year since the Popowich Terminal opened, with officials noting performance already exceeding expectations. The project cost 2.3 million dollars, funded by 850,000 from airport reserves and 1.467 million financed through an internal loan from the City of Yorkton.
The terminal's design and facilities include a pilot lounge, reception desk, six leasable office spaces, an airport superintendent’s office, runway electrical systems, a conference room and other amenities. Construction began after a 2024 city council approval and the building officially opened in October 2025.
Local officials describe the terminal as a substantial improvement over the wartime-era facility it replaced, which had significant structural deficiencies. Councillor Dustin Brears highlighted the upgrade as a driver for future growth and appreciated features such as working washrooms and a welcoming main hall.
A 2.6% traffic uptick was recorded for the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, rising from 6,307 to 6,472 aircraft movements. Officials note that weather and other factors could also influence annual movement figures, and the city has not released first-year financial data for the terminal.
Funding and planning discussions indicate ongoing emphasis on broadening airport use beyond private pilots and business travelers, with hopes for eventual regular commercial service. Municipal officials emphasize that attracting scheduled flights will require participation from local businesses and potential partner entities.