โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Regional airport with limited facilities.
๐ Connection Tips
Dawson City Airport (YDA) operates 8 nautical miles east of the historic Gold Rush town in Yukon's Klondike River valley at 1,215 feet elevation. The facility underwent significant modernization in 2019 with a $9.9 million runway paving project, transforming the former gravel surface into a 5,003-foot asphalt runway - the first newly paved runway north of the 60th parallel in 25 years. This improvement dramatically reduced foreign object debris risks and enhanced safety for Air North and charter operations serving the community. Winter operations present extreme challenges with taxiways D, E, F, and G closed September 15 through March 31, while Taxiway B faces occasional closures during snow removal operations. Aircraft are restricted to maximum taxi weights of 12,500 pounds during winter months. Weather observations operate through NAV CANADA's community aerodrome radio station from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer, reduced to 3:00 PM closure in winter reflecting the shortened daylight hours. The narrow mountain valley location creates approach challenges with terrain-obstructed procedures requiring experienced northern pilots. Environmental studies have noted the airport's vulnerability to weather variability in this remote northern setting. Summer brings nearly 24-hour daylight but also intense mosquito activity requiring travelers to carry effective repellent when venturing outside the terminal. Ground transportation within Dawson City requires advance coordination as taxi availability is limited in this community of 1,400 residents. The airport serves essential roles including medical evacuation, supply delivery, and tourism access to Klondike National Historic Sites. Travelers should prepare for potential multi-day weather delays by packing extra clothing, food, and medications. The facility connects primarily through Whitehorse, requiring connections for southern travel. Winter temperatures can reach -40ยฐC with extreme cold weather procedures affecting aircraft performance and ground operations.
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.
โ Back to Dawson City Airport