โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
20
minutes
Domestic โ International
45
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Small GA aerodrome serving the Thompson-Nicola region.
๐ Connection Tips
Cache Creek-Ashcroft Regional Airport (also known as Campbell Hill Regional Airport) serves the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia, located 2.2 nautical miles south of Cache Creek along the Trans-Canada Highway corridor between Vancouver and Kamloops. Built largely by volunteer labor in 1984 through community effort moving 92,000 cubic metres of material, the airport operates with a single runway 15/33 and uses pseudo ICAO code CAZ5 alongside IATA designation YZA. No scheduled commercial service operates - the facility primarily serves general aviation, charter flights, and recreational flying. The nearest commercial airports are Kamloops (YKA) approximately 90 kilometres northeast, and Vancouver (YVR) roughly 350 kilometres southwest via Highway 1. The airport hosts an annual Mother's Day Fly-In since 2000 attracting dozens of aircraft for aerial demonstrations. Pilot-controlled lighting available with no terminal building or full-time staff - visitors should be self-sufficient with water, sun protection, and fuel planning. Charter services typically arranged through Kamloops or Vancouver operators for commercial connections. The facility serves corporate flights for local ranching, mining, and forestry operations in the interior BC region. Ground transportation consists mainly of rental cars from Cache Creek/Ashcroft area, though advance arrangements recommended. Weather conditions can be challenging with mountain terrain effects and seasonal temperature extremes typical of interior British Columbia. Emergency services coordinate through local RCMP and volunteer fire departments. Fuel availability limited - verify in advance for visiting aircraft requiring refueling 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 Cache Creek-Ashcroft Regional Airport