
Vancouver International Airport is Canada’s second-busiest airport. Last year, 14.3 million passengers walked through its gates, 215,300 tonnes of cargo were processed, and 250,400 take-offs and landings were safely orchestrated. YVR is the third-largest international passenger gateway on the West Coast of North America. Not only does YVR link communities across the country, continent and globe, it is a vital economic engine for Vancouver and the nation. It is the source of work for 26,000 employees and pays $63 million in rent to the federal government annually.
These heady numbers provided the incentive for the Young Presidents’ Organization (learn more about them at www.YPO.org) to encourage their members to learn more about this local economic force. They decided to create an event that would provide an ‘insider’s view’. Given the location, it would be a high-security undertaking, but they wanted it to be a high-profile celebration of the airport and its potential.
The YPO chose Red Rocket to create and coordinate the elements that would make the event a success. Input was sought from many of the airport’s major stakeholders: YVR administration, Customs & Immigration, and Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). The behind-the-scenes tour included a security-cleared circuit of the tarmac, customs processing, baggage handling, fire hall and emergency response facility inspection.
Red Rocket also developed a unique invitation that was hand-delivered to all YPO members. The memorable package included an engraved leather ticket wallet, containing a personalized replica boarding pass which listed the invitation specifics. Distinctive wayfinding ensured YPO members didn’t miss out on pre-tour cocktails and petit fours served in the US departure concourse. The main event took place in the Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel’s Mallard Room, complete with multimedia presentations by the respective stakeholders.
In the end, the many elements that made up the evening at YVR were executed with precision and attention to detail. If you have an upcoming event, and want that ‘extra something’—or just want to lessen your workload—call us to lend a hand.
To learn more about the Young Presidents Organization go to: www.YPO.org
















