โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Airport serving Peawanuck.
๐ Connection Tips
Peawanuck Airport serves the isolated Cree First Nation community near Hudson Bay, strategically located where the Winisk and Shamattawa rivers confluence, approximately 35 kilometers from Winisk River's mouth. The airport operates at 172 feet elevation with coordinates N54ยฐ59.28' / W85ยฐ26.60', positioned on higher ground after the community relocated from the original Winisk location following the devastating 1986 flood. The name 'Peawanuck' means 'flintstone' in Cree, reflecting the community's cultural heritage and resilient spirit. This critical transportation link operates in UTC-5 time zone with 10ยฐ West magnetic variation, requiring careful navigation planning for the challenging Hudson Bay lowlands terrain. Weather considerations include extreme northern Ontario conditions with harsh winters, extensive ice coverage, and subarctic climate patterns affecting year-round operations. The airport serves essential community functions including medical evacuations, government services, supply delivery, and cultural connections with other Cree communities throughout the region. Flight operations must account for seasonal variations from extreme winter conditions with temperatures below -40ยฐC to brief summer periods with insect challenges and ground softening. Limited ground services reflect the remote location, requiring careful fuel and maintenance planning for visiting aircraft. Air Creebec and other regional carriers provide vital connections linking Peawanuck with Timmins, Thunder Bay, and other northern Ontario centers. The facility exemplifies aviation's crucial role in maintaining isolated communities' access to essential services, education, and healthcare. Passengers should prepare for basic terminal facilities, coordinate ground transportation within the small community, and expect weather-related delays common to Hudson Bay coastal operations. The airport's succession of Winisk Airport represents community resilience and adaptation to changing environmental and geographical challenges in Canada's far north.
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 Peawanuck Airport