Kamloops Airport Achieves Prestigious Biosphere Certified Status, Marking a Major Milestone in Sustainable Aviation

July 29, 2025

Kamloops, B.C. – Kamloops Airport (YKA) is proud to announce it has officially achieved Biosphere Certified status, an internationally recognized designation award by the Responsible Tourism Institute. This certification reflects YKA’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship and community collaboration. From cutting carbon emissions to supporting local culture and inclusive growth, Kamloops Airport is actively contributing to a more sustainable future for aviation in British Columbia.

Biosphere Certification evaluates destinations and organizations through a rigorous process that measures performance in areas such as climate action, resource efficiency, social responsibility, and visitor experience. This recognition acknowledges a range of impactful initiatives implemented by Kamloops Airport across environmental, community, and corporate stewardship, including energy efficient LED upgrades on the airfield and in operations and terminal buildings, and adding occupancy sensors to reduce energy use in unoccupied areas. The airport partnered with School District 73 on the Airports & Robots program, supporting youth engagement in aviation and fostering the next generation of aviators and prioritized accessibility through barrier-free design, inclusive practices, and staff training to ensure a welcoming experience for all travelers.

“Achieving Biosphere Certified status is an exciting milestone for Kamloops Airport and a testament to our team’s dedication to responsible growth, sustainability, and service to our community. This recognition reinforces our commitment to ensuring that the airport is not only a vital connector and transportation hub for the region but also has a positive impact on the environment and the people we serve. We look forward to continuing our work with local partners and stakeholders and focus on our contribution to more sustainable aviation in B.C.”
— Jim Moroz, Managing Director, Kamloops Airport

“Congratulations to Kamloops Airport on achieving the prestigious Biosphere Certified status. This accomplishment is a powerful reflection of the dedication and hard work put forth by the Sustainability team at YKA. Attaining this certification demonstrates their unwavering commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. As a vital transportation hub in B.C.’s Interior, Kamloops Airport is setting an inspiring example for others in the aviation industry, showing that responsible growth and sustainable practices go hand-in-hand. TOTA applauds Kamloops Airport’s leadership in shaping a greener, more inclusive future for both travelers and the communities they serve.”
— Ellen Walker-Matthews, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

Kamloops Airport is a vital transportation gateway for B.C.’s Interior, connecting the region through domestic air service while supporting local tourism and business. Operated by Vantage Group, Kamloops Airport is dedicated to delivering safe, sustainable, and seamless travel experiences for all passengers. Achieving Biosphere Certification highlights the airport’s role as a community-focused travel hub ready to meet the needs of travelers today and tomorrow.

Click here to see Kamloops Airport’s Biosphere Sustainability Efforts

Ashley Wood

For more information:
Ashley_Wood@kamloopsairport.com