โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Campbell River Airport operates as Vancouver Island's northern aviation gateway positioned 4.5 nautical miles south of Campbell River at 357 feet elevation, featuring comprehensive infrastructure designed to serve diverse aviation operations from small aircraft to Boeing 737s while maintaining its designation as an Airport of Entry staffed by Canada Border Services Agency for international arrivals carrying up to 15 passengers. The recently modernized Air Terminal Building provides essential passenger amenities including commercial airline services through Pacific Coastal Airlines and Central Mountain Air, the Fuel up Cafรฉ, Budget and National car rentals, and passenger screening by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) reflecting the facility's role as a significant regional transportation hub.
The airport features exceptional runway infrastructure including a substantial 6,499-foot grooved runway (12/30) with dual parallel taxiways (Bravo and Charlie) designed to accommodate diverse aircraft operations ranging from Cessna 150s to corporate jets, with pavement load rating capabilities supporting aircraft up to 44,000 pounds while providing year-round Jet A-1 fuel services and comprehensive ground support operations. Pacific Coastal Airlines provides double daily non-stop flights to Vancouver International Airport's South Terminal with fares starting at $98 CAD one-way, while Central Mountain Air offers additional regional connections throughout British Columbia.
Operational capabilities benefit from Vancouver Island's temperate maritime climate providing generally favorable flying conditions year-round, though winter operations may encounter coastal storms, marine fog, and crosswind conditions requiring skilled piloting techniques typical of Pacific Northwest coastal aviation. The airport's strategic central Vancouver Island location enables small aircraft and helicopter operations to reach any point on the island within 1.5 hours, making it an essential hub for forestry operations, tourism access, and emergency services throughout the region.
Strategically positioned to serve northern Vancouver Island's economy and tourism development, Campbell River Airport facilitates access to world-class salmon fishing destinations, wilderness lodges, coastal recreational opportunities, and serves as a critical jumping-off point for pilots flying to Alaska via the scenic Inside Passage route. The facility exemplifies modern regional aviation infrastructure, balancing commercial passenger service, corporate aviation, general aviation activities, and international border services while supporting Vancouver Island's diverse economic sectors from forestry and tourism to outdoor recreation and resource development in one of Canada's most spectacular coastal environments.
๐ Connection Tips
Campbell River Airport serves as Vancouver Island's northern gateway, located 4.5 nautical miles south of Campbell River at 357 feet elevation with exceptional infrastructure supporting diverse aviation operations. The airport features a substantial 6,499-foot grooved runway (12/30) with dual parallel taxiways (Bravo and Charlie) designed to accommodate aircraft ranging from Cessna 150s to Boeing 737s, Globals, and Gulfstreams with a pavement load rating capable of supporting 44,000-pound aircraft. Pacific Coastal Airlines and Central Mountain Air provide scheduled commercial services connecting Campbell River with Vancouver and other British Columbia destinations.
The facility operates as an Airport of Entry staffed by Canada Border Services Agency for general aviation aircraft with up to 15 passengers, making it strategically important for international arrivals to northern Vancouver Island. Modern amenities include Jet A-1 fuel on tap, diverse aircraft parking options from grass tie-downs to commercial operational stands, and comprehensive ground support services. Weather conditions benefit from Vancouver Island's temperate maritime climate, though winter operations may encounter coastal storms, fog, and crosswinds requiring skilled piloting techniques.
The airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the region's forestry industry, tourism sector, and outdoor recreation activities including salmon fishing, wildlife viewing, and access to coastal wilderness areas. Summer months bring increased traffic from recreational pilots and charter operations accessing remote fishing lodges and coastal destinations. The facility's strategic location provides excellent connections to the Discovery Islands, mainland British Columbia fjords, and serves as a jumping-off point for pilots flying to Alaska via the Inside Passage route.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Creston Valley Regional Airport, also known as Art Sutcliffe Field (CFQ), and identified by its TC LID CAJ3, is a crucial regional airport located 3.5 nautical miles south of Creston, British Columbia, Canada. Owned by the Town of Creston and operated by the Creston Valley Regional Airport Society, it serves as a vital hub for general aviation, air ambulance services, wildfire response, and local flight training. The airport plays a significant role in supporting the economic and emergency service needs of the Creston Valley community.
The airport features a functional terminal building that includes a comfortable pilot's lounge and washroom facilities. While there are no extensive commercial amenities like large retail stores or full-service restaurants, the terminal provides essential services for pilots and passengers. For added convenience, a meeting room with a capacity for up to 65 people is available, and a courtesy vehicle can be used for local transportation (reservations recommended). These facilities aim to provide a welcoming and efficient environment for all airport users.
Operational aspects at CFQ are comprehensive. The airport boasts a 3,944-foot paved runway (15/33) equipped with full-length runway lights, Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI), and taxiway/apron lights, ensuring safe operations. It offers 24/7 Cardlock fuel for both 100LL (AVGAS) and Jet A, payable with major credit cards. An Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) provides continuous meteorological data. The airport supports aircraft on arrival examination (AOE/CANPASS) for international flights, and offers overnight grass tie-downs and designated air ambulance parking. These services highlight its importance as a well-equipped regional aviation facility.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Creston Valley Regional Airport (CFQ) is a uniquely reliable experience in the Kootenays, serving as a vital technical hub for general aviation and medevac flights. A paramount logistical tip: Creston operates on Mountain Standard Time (MST) year-round and does not observe Daylight Saving Time; this means it remains consistent with Alberta in winter and Arizona/Pacific time in summer. For pilots, the most critical 'connection' tip is the utilization of the 24/7 cardlock self-service fuel island, which provides both 100LL and Jet A via major credit cards. While the 3,944-foot asphalt runway (15/33) is well-maintained, be aware that grass tie-down areas can become exceptionally soft and unusable from February to late April due to spring snowmelt.
From a ground logistics standpoint, the airport offers a unique convenience: a courtesy car is typically available for pilots to access the town of Creston, located 6 km north. It is highly recommended to reserve this vehicle in advance by calling (250) 428-2733. While CFQ lacks scheduled commercial airline service, it is an authorized Airport of Entry (AOE/CANPASS) for international arrivals. If you are crossing from the United States, the Rykerts/Porthill border crossing is just 10 km south; however, ensure you have provided the required one-hour notice to CBSA or CBP before departure.
Travelers should also be mindful of the north-south valley wind patterns, which can create significant mountain-wave turbulence during frontal passages. For a comfortable wait, the terminal provides a quiet pilot lounge and snooze room, but no on-site dining; travelers should grab essentials in town. For frequent flyers in BC, CFQ remains a preferred technical stop where you can transition from cockpit to town center in under ten minutes.
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