โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Regional airport with 21,000 sq ft terminal building. Located 5 nautical miles west of Peace River, Alberta.
๐ Connection Tips
Peace River Airport serves as northern Alberta's primary regional aviation hub with a 5,000-foot runway capable of accommodating Boeing 737-600/700/800 aircraft equipped with short-field packages. The modern 21,000 square foot terminal building provides full passenger services including security screening and baggage handling. Northern Air operates as the primary carrier with scheduled service to Edmonton International Airport, complemented by charter and air ambulance operations serving remote northern communities. The airport's elevation of 1,872 feet requires density altitude considerations during summer operations when temperatures can exceed 30ยฐC. Winter conditions present significant operational challenges with temperatures dropping to -40ยฐC and heavy snowfall requiring specialized aircraft equipment and de-icing procedures. Runway 04/22 orientation can create crosswind challenges during prevailing northwest weather patterns. The facility operates under Edmonton FIR control with published METAR/TAF weather observations supporting instrument approaches. Historical significance includes reopening for major airline service in January 1961 after being the former Peace Air hub until 2007. Geographic constraints limit runway expansion due to Strong Creek ravine to the west and Highway 2 on the east side, making operational planning crucial for larger aircraft. Ground transportation includes taxi services, rental cars, and shuttle connections to downtown Peace River, located 5 nautical miles east of the airport. The airport serves oil and gas industry workers, government services, and medical transport for the Peace River region's 70,000+ residents. Fuel services include 100LL and Jet A with 24-hour availability for scheduled operations. Parking is free and abundant with easy terminal access. Flight planning should account for limited alternate airports in northern Alberta, with Grande Prairie and Edmonton serving as primary alternates during weather events.
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 Peace River Airport