โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Portage-la-Prairie / Southport Airport serves Manitoba's wheat heartland from the historic RCAF Station opened December 1940 for Commonwealth Air Training Plan operations that trained thousands of Allied pilots during World War II, initially delayed when construction problems forced No. 14 Elementary Flying Training School to establish at Winnipeg's Stevenson Field before moving here December 4, 1940. Built by Claydon Construction for $450,000 under Assistant Engineer E.H. Fleishman, this facility operated 25 de Havilland Tiger Moths through Central Manitoba Flying Training School Limitedโa Winnipeg Flying Club charterโuntil July 3, 1942, when operations transferred to Assiniboia allowing No. 7 Air Observers School to expand across the entire site.
The airport features infrastructure evolved from wartime facilities including the original double-hangar (224 x 160 feet), standard hangar, and twelve buildings supporting AOS training where pupils underwent 12-week regimens in air navigation, aerial photography, reconnaissance, observation, mapping, and description beginning April 28, 1941. Terminal facilities now serve Southport Aerospace Centre Inc.'s commercial-industrial operations after military cutbacks closed CFB Portage la Prairie in September 1992, transforming from NATO pilot training center (1950s) through Canadian Forces base (1966) to modern civilian aerospace hub.
Operational characteristics center on diverse aviation activities from agricultural operations supporting surrounding wheat farms to aerospace training and commercial services, utilizing the strategic location in Manitoba's agricultural corridor where prairie wheat production sustains the regional economy. The facility handles general aviation, charter operations, aerospace education through 3CFFTS (3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School) contract training, and industrial operations supporting both agricultural and aerospace sectors throughout south-central Manitoba.
Strategic importance encompasses preserving the legacy of Commonwealth Air Training Plan operations that made Canada the 'Aerodrome of Democracy' training 131,553 aircrew including 49,808 pilots from Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and Allied nations, maintaining aviation connectivity for Portage la Prairie's 13,000 residents in Manitoba's agricultural heartland, supporting modern aerospace industry development through Southport Aerospace Centre's transformation of military infrastructure for civilian innovation, and honoring the memory of young airmen who trained here before facing combat skies over Europe where many never returned to see Manitoba's golden wheat fields again.
๐ Connection Tips
Portage la Prairie Southport Airport operates as a major commercial-industrial aviation center in Manitoba, built on the foundation of the former Canadian Forces Base Portage la Prairie. The airport's strategic location between Winnipeg and Saskatchewan makes it ideal for fuel stops and training operations. The facility's transition from military to civilian use maintains sophisticated infrastructure supporting flight training, cargo operations, and general aviation activities. Specific apron management requires careful attention: no itinerant aircraft on Apron I, with itinerant aircraft parking south of Hangar 5 on Apron II, while jet and large aircraft use the concrete pad on Apron II's south side.
The airport serves at 884 feet elevation within the Winnipeg Flight Information Region, requiring coordination with Winnipeg Center for traffic management. The facility features four runways (2/20, 9/27, 13L/31R, and 13R/31L) with Runway 09/27 weight-restricted to 15,500 pounds, providing versatility for various aircraft operations. Industrial tenants provide maintenance, avionics, and specialized aviation services. Ground transportation to Portage la Prairie requires advance planning, with rental cars and taxi services available but limited on weekends.
Light aircraft utilize tie-downs on Apron II's north side. Weather planning relies on Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport METAR, located 40 nautical miles away, due to the absence of local weather reporting. Southport Aerospace Centre Inc. manages the airport with operational hours 14-24Z excluding holidays, offering overtime service by NOTAM. Winter operations require careful planning due to Manitoba's harsh conditions, with snow removal prioritized on active runways based on operational requirements.
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 Portage-la-Prairie / Southport Airport