โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Airport serving Kenora.
๐ Connection Tips
Kenora Airport serves as the premier aviation gateway to Ontario's magnificent Lake of the Woods region, positioned 9.3 kilometers east-northeast of this historic border community at 1,344 feet elevation. Operating with a substantial 5,800-foot asphalt runway and classified as a Canada Border Services Agency airport of entry for general aviation aircraft up to 15 passengers, the facility provides essential access to one of the world's most renowned fishing destinations. Bearskin Airlines previously operated scheduled service connecting Kenora to Thunder Bay and other regional hubs until May 2024, while the airport continues supporting extensive charter operations and specialized amphibious Cessna Caravan services delivering passengers directly to fly-in fishing lodges scattered across the region's 10,000+ fishable lakes and rivers. Lake of the Woods, famously known as the 'Walleye capital of the world,' features 14,000 islands and 65,000 miles of pristine shoreline attracting anglers pursuing walleye, northern pike, lake trout, bass, muskie, and numerous other species year-round. The upgraded terminal handles 10,000-15,000 passengers annually and earned recognition as a finalist for the WestJet Innovation & Excellence Award in 2018, reflecting its importance to regional tourism. Ground transportation connects to Kenora's downtown core, positioned strategically on the historic fur trading route where Hudson's Bay Company established Old Fort Island trading post in 1790, and the region's economy transitioned from early 20th-century gold mining that produced 75% of the area's 180,000 ounces from 13 mines around Shoal Lake. Today's economy thrives on tourism supported by world-class fishing tournaments, cultural celebrations, farmers' markets, and outdoor recreation activities that attract visitors to experience the vast boating expanses and hiking trails throughout this pristine wilderness destination accessible primarily through aviation services.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Chilko Lake (Tsylos Park Lodge) Airport (CJH), also known by its TC LID CAG3, is a specialized private aviation facility located at the north end of Chilko Lake in the Chilcotin region of British Columbia, Canada. Serving as the primary aerial gateway for the prestigious Tsylos Park Lodge, the airport acts as a critical link for international eco-tourists, fly-fishing enthusiasts, and wilderness explorers. The airfield is positioned in a dramatic mountain valley and provides a seamless entry point to one of the most remote and pristine landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.
The airport features a well-maintained 3,200-foot gravel airstrip (18/36) that is specifically designed to handle the light turboprop and piston aircraft typically used for backcountry charters. While there is no traditional passenger terminal building at the airfield itself, the 'terminal' operations are fully integrated with the nearby Tsylos Park Lodge. All guest arrivals, departures, and flight briefings are coordinated through the lodge's main reception. The facility consists of an open staging area with aircraft tie-downs and run-up pads, ensuring a functional and efficient environment for private pilots and charter crews operating in the rugged interior of BC.
Commercial services at CJH are strictly charter-based and primarily support the lodge's seasonal operations. Most travelers arrive via private aircraft or dedicated lodge charters departing from Vancouver (YVR), with the flight providing spectacular views of the Coast Mountains and the azure waters of Chilko Lake. The airport's role is fundamental to the regional wilderness economy, facilitating the movement of high-end tourists to the Chilko River, famous for its world-class grizzly bear viewing and trout fishing. Ground transportation from the airstrip is provided by the lodge's fleet of 4WD vehicles, which meet every arriving aircraft to transport guests directly to their timber-frame cabins and suites. The airfield remains a vital infrastructure asset for the sustainable development and protection of the Tsylos Provincial Park region.
๐ Connection Tips
Chilko Lake Airport (CJH), also known by its TC LID CAG3, is a specialized private airstrip at the northern end of Chilko Lake in the Chilcotin region of British Columbia. It serves as the primary fly-in gateway for guests of the Tsylos Park Lodge, an Orvis-endorsed wilderness destination famous for fly-fishing and grizzly bear viewing. Connecting to CJH involves a unique process at Vancouver International Airport (YVR); most lodge packages include a private charter departing from the Sky Services building (Air Elite) in the South Terminal area. It is vital to note that these flights do not depart from the YVR Main Terminal. Travelers should utilize the free South Terminal shuttle or take a 10-minute taxi to the Sky Services building, arriving at least 40 minutes before the typically early Sunday morning departure. Charter aircraft, such as the Navajo Chieftain or Beech 1900, have a strict 45 lb (20 kg) weight limit and require soft-sided duffel bags to fit into small cargo pods. For international travelers, arriving in Vancouver on Saturday night is highly recommended to ensure you don't miss the once-weekly Sunday charter due to flight delays. On your return journey, charters typically land in Vancouver by 1:00 PM; avoid booking onward flights before 3:30 PM to allow for terminal transfers and customs. The 3,200-foot gravel airstrip at CJH provides direct access to the lodge, though in certain weather conditions, aircraft may divert to Puntzi Lake (CYXQ), necessitating a 1.5-hour vehicle transfer. Always confirm your ground pickup and baggage weight with the lodge 24 hours in advance to ensure a seamless transition into the rugged Pacific Northwest wilderness.
โ Back to Kenora Airport