Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) has raised the number of video lottery terminals (VLTs) allowed in the province following a request from Edmonton International Airport.

As reported by CBC, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are still being felt on Canadian airports today, leading the AGLC to open up an additional revenue stream by creating a new category of licence holders called Airport Entertainment Centres.

The cap for VLTs in Alberta was set in 1995 based on recommendations by the Lotteries Review Committee, but the number permitted has now grown from 6,000 to 6,098, though currently only Edmonton and Calgary airport authorities are allowed to access this revenue stream.

Each can have up to 49 VLTs located post security in areas where minors are prohibited, such as bars and lounges.

However, the Calgary Airport Authority has told CBC that it has no plans to install VLTs at its terminals, whereas Edmonton International Airport already has 14 and has set its sights on adding more in the future.

As part of the agreement, Edmonton Regional Airports Authority will collect 15% of revenues while the majority (85%) goes to the government’s general revenues to support programs and services.