YORKTON — The Yorkton Regional Airport has announced the official naming of its terminal building as the Popowich Terminal.
“This milestone reflects the airport’s commitment to revitalization and its ongoing role as an important gateway for residents, visitors and the business community,” states a news release from the city.
Earlier this year, the airport issued an open call for naming rights. Local entrepreneur Mike Popowich secured the opportunity, building on his family’s roots in Yorkton and aviation.
“Their long-standing involvement has helped foster activity at the airport and support the wider community. The upgraded terminal is part of a broader initiative to improve services, expand facilities, and strengthen Yorkton’s role in regional transportation and economic development,” the news release stated.
"With Yorkton Regional Airport Popowich Terminal, we’re not only building a modern facility, we’re building for the future of our city,” said Yorkton Mayor Aaron Kienle. “This investment strengthens our infrastructure, supports our economy, and connects people to Yorkton for years to come."
Popowich expressed pride in the recognition.
“We are excited for the new terminal building. It will modernize the location, benefit the community, and support increased usage far into the future. We are very happy to be able to make a long-term commitment to contribute to this important project and look forward to being part of its success.”
Popowich said both of his parents had aviation licences when he was growing up, and he has one as well.
“I’ve been taking my kids there since they were little to walk around. It was a good opportunity to get involved with a project that is doing something that I think is very important for the City of Yorkton that is modernizing the location,” he said.
Businesses that are based out of the airport have done a great job, Popowich said. The terminal was the one aspect that needed work. He has been in the terminal for a tour and said it looks great.
“They’ve done a fantastic job, and the inside’s fairly luxurious, especially compared to what it used to be, and I think that helps for the city to lease out the parts of the building that they’re hoping to lease out to the different to the different businesses that utilize it. For a meeting space, they have a board room available for people to rent out or utilize or to meeting incoming people that are flying into Yorkton,” he said.
A formal unveiling of the Popowich Terminal signage will take place at an open house on Oct. 2, starting at 11:30 a.m. The city says there will be photo opportunities, terminal tours, refreshments and more.
