YVR preparing for 88,000 daily passengers during World Cup
Airport expects 2.7 million passengers between June 8 and July 12; new screening tech and biometric gates deployed.
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Vancouver International Airport is gearing up for a surge in passenger traffic during the FIFA World Cup, expecting nearly 88,000 people per day between June 8 and July 12 — a 5 to 10 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025.
Total passenger volumes are projected to hit 2.7 million during the tournament window. The highest volumes are expected in the days immediately before and after matches. Vancouver will host seven matches, with the first on June 13, plus a round-of-16 knockout game on July 7.
YVR has implemented several upgrades to handle the flow. New CT screening technology has been installed at all domestic and international CATSA screening points and U.S. departure checkpoints, eliminating the need to remove large electronics and small liquids from carry-on bags. The airport has also expanded its biometric and facial comparison boarding program to 42 biometric-enabled gates, including 28 full e-gates, which speeds up boarding by up to 13 percent and helps maintain on-time departures even when aircraft arrive behind schedule.
Additionally, YVR has established a 24/7 "FIFA Coordination Desk" to provide real-time support for players, officials, media, and other credentialed travellers.
The upgrades position the airport to process crowds efficiently while maintaining security standards.