โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Revelstoke Airport serves as the exclusive aviation gateway to world-class skiing at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, home to North America's most vertical terrain at 1,713 meters (5,620 feet) in the heart of the Columbia Mountains between the Monashee and Selkirk ranges. Located 1.7 nautical miles southeast of Revelstoke at 1,455 feet elevation, this day-VFR facility features a substantial 4,825-foot paved runway constructed on an engineered peninsula, designed to accommodate the challenging mountain weather that delivers 480-720 inches of legendary powder annually.
The airport features enhanced infrastructure managed by the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District, including terminal building facilities, T-hangars for private and commercial operations, comprehensive fuel services (Jet A and AvGas), plus GNSS LNAV approach capabilities published in NAV Canada's Restricted Canadian Air Pilot, supporting both recreational aviation and tourism charter operations. Pacific Coastal Airlines has provided seasonal charter flights during ski seasons, connecting affluent powder enthusiasts directly to the resort's jaw-dropping terrain featuring wide-open alpine bowls and perfectly spaced glades.
Operational characteristics center on managing extreme mountain weather conditions including freezing levels at 1,300 meters, alpine temperatures reaching -6ยฐC, and ridge winds from the west at 35-45 km/h, requiring experienced mountain flying skills and flexible scheduling during stormy days with heavy snowfall that create fresh windslab conditions affecting aviation safety. The 110-meter runway extension completed in 2014 enhanced capacity for larger charter aircraft serving the resort's growing international reputation.
Strategic importance encompasses providing premium aviation access to British Columbia's most challenging and revered ski terrain, supporting the resort's transformation from a former cat-skiing and heli-skiing zone into a destination that draws powder hounds globally, while ensuring emergency medical services and connectivity for Revelstoke's tourism economy built around legendary skiing conditions in the spectacular Columbia Mountains where pristine wilderness meets world-class winter recreation infrastructure.
๐ Connection Tips
Revelstoke Airport operates in the heart of the Columbia Mountains, serving both aviation enthusiasts and the region's growing ski tourism industry. The airport serves as a gateway to world-class skiing, mountaineering, and outdoor recreation opportunities in the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges. The facility aims to attract regular charters for tourists and potentially develop commercial flight services to support the region's recreational economy. Weather-dependent operations are the norm, with rapid changes in mountain conditions requiring flexible scheduling and experienced mountain flying skills.
Mountain weather presents considerable operational challenges, with current conditions often featuring freezing levels at 1,300 meters, alpine temperatures reaching -6ยฐC, and ridge winds from the west at 35-45 km/h. Located 1.7 nautical miles southeast of Revelstoke at 1,455 feet elevation, this day-VFR facility features a substantial 4,825-foot paved runway constructed on an engineered peninsula. The Columbia-Shuswap Regional District owns and operates this registered aerodrome, which has undergone significant improvements including a 110-meter runway extension completed in 2014.
Pacific Coastal Airlines has provided charter flight services during ski seasons, reflecting the airport's connection to Revelstoke Mountain Resort's tourism economy. Stormy days with high winds and heavy snowfall are common, creating fresh windslab conditions at higher elevations that can affect aviation operations. The airport offers GNSS LNAV approach capabilities published in NAV Canada's Restricted Canadian Air Pilot, along with terminal building facilities, T-hangars for private and commercial operations, and both Jet A and AvGas fueling services.
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 Revelstoke Airport