Central Mountain Air

Central Mountain Air (CMA) is more than just a regional carrier; it is a vital lifeline for residents and visitors of Western Canada. Founded in the heart of British Columbia, the airline specializes in flights to destinations where majestic nature meets rugged landscapes. For a tourist, a flight with CMA is a unique opportunity to quickly and comfortably switch the rhythm of the metropolis for the tranquility of mountain towns and national parks.

History and Mission
The airline was founded in 1987 and has since established itself as a reliable partner for communities in British Columbia and Alberta. The main mission of Central Mountain Air is to provide connectivity between major urban centers and small regional airports. The company takes pride in its roots and in making travel across Canada's vast territories accessible and efficient, reducing multi-hour car journeys to a short flight.

Flight Geography
The airline's route network covers key points in the region. CMA operates scheduled flights connecting major hubs such as Vancouver and Edmonton with picturesque corners of the province. Particularly popular are destinations like Kelowna, known for its scenic orchards, and Calgary — the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. The company's aircraft also fly to Terrace and other remote locations, giving tourists access to unique natural attractions.

Fleet and Service
Central Mountain Air's fleet is optimized for regional operations and includes Dornier 328, De Havilland Dash 8, and Beechcraft 1900D aircraft. These machines are perfectly suited for take-offs and landings at smaller airports while ensuring a high level of reliability. On board, passengers are welcomed by friendly staff who create an atmosphere of Canadian hospitality.

Safety
Flight safety is the absolute priority for CMA. The airline strictly adheres to Transport Canada standards and regularly undergoes maintenance audits. The experience of the pilots, accustomed to flying in the complex weather conditions of mountainous terrain, guarantees passenger peace of mind at every stage of the journey.

Contacting Central Mountain Air

To plan your trip, check schedules, or resolve booking queries, you can use several channels to communicate with Central Mountain Air. The airline offers convenient contact methods for both passengers within Canada and international clients.

Official Website
Current schedules, online check-in, and booking management are available on the website:
www.flycma.com

Contact Details

• Support and Reservations: 1-888-865-8585 (Toll-free within North America)
• Head Office (Smithers): (250) 847-5000
• Email for Reservations: reservations@flycma.com
• Customer Care: customer.care@flycma.com
• Mobile Services: Currently, the airline does not have a separate downloadable mobile app. It is recommended to use the mobile version of the official website, which is adapted for smartphones.

Social Media

Follow news, special offers, and flight updates on the official pages:

• Facebook: facebook.com/flycma
• Twitter (X): @flycmair
• Instagram: @flycmair
• LinkedIn: Central Mountain Air Ltd.

Offices and Representatives

If you need to visit an office in person or send correspondence, use the following addresses:

• Head Office in Smithers:
  6431 Airport Road, Smithers, British Columbia, V0J 2N0
• Calgary Office:
  5420-11th Street NE, Calgary, Alberta, T2E 7E9

Please Note: Operating hours for phone lines and offices may vary depending on the day of the week and public holidays. The airline recommends checking current opening hours in the "Contact Us" section of the official website before reaching out.

When planning a trip with Central Mountain Air, it is important to consider the specifics of regional flights. Since the airline's fleet consists of smaller turboprop aircraft (such as the Dornier 328 and Dash 8), baggage rules here may be stricter than on large transatlantic liners. By reviewing the regulations in advance, you ensure a comfortable flight without unnecessary hassle at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage: Rules and Valet Service
Each passenger is allowed to take two items of carry-on baggage on board: one standard item (e.g., a small roller suitcase) and one personal item (a handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag). The maximum weight of the standard item generally must not exceed 10 kg, and dimensions should be within 23 x 40 x 55 cm.

An important detail for those flying, for example, from Vancouver to Kelowna: overhead bins on smaller aircraft are quite compact. If your carry-on does not fit in the cabin, you will be offered the complimentary Valet Service (Skycheck). You leave your bag at the stairs before boarding, the crew places it in the hold, and immediately after landing, you receive it back right at the aircraft exit.

Checked Baggage
Free baggage allowances depend on your ticket fare (e.g., Econ, Flex). Typically, a standard piece of baggage is limited to a weight of 23 kg (50 lbs) and total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of up to 158 cm. If you are traveling on the popular Calgary — Prince George route, we recommend checking your fare conditions in advance, as baggage may be charged separately on the most budget-friendly tickets.

Excess Baggage and Fees
Additional fees apply for any bags exceeding the established limits in weight or quantity.

• Overweight: Baggage weighing between 23 and 32 kg is considered heavy and requires a surcharge. Suitcases heavier than 32 kg are generally not accepted as baggage and must be processed as cargo.
• Additional Pieces: If you are bringing more bags than your fare allows (e.g., a second or third bag when flying to Edmonton), a fixed fee is charged for each piece.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments
Given that Central Mountain Air's network covers mountain regions, transporting skis, snowboards, and bicycles is a frequent request. Ski equipment is usually accepted as part of the free baggage allowance if packed in a case. For bicycles and bulky equipment, fixed fees apply per item. Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit under the seat, or a separate seat (CBBG) can be purchased for them if the instrument is fragile and large.

Prohibited and Restricted Items
For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to transport explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and oxidizers in any checked or carry-on baggage. Lithium batteries (power banks) are permitted only in carry-on baggage. It is also not recommended to place valuables, documents, keys, or fragile electronics in checked baggage.

Packing Tips for Regional Flights
When traveling to smaller towns like Terrace, try to use soft bags instead of hard-shell suitcases — they are easier to stow in the limited space of small aircraft baggage compartments. Always remove old baggage tags from your bags and ensure you attach a name tag with your current phone number and email address.

Traveling with Pets on Central Mountain Air Flights

Central Mountain Air understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. However, given the regional nature of operations and the use of smaller aircraft (such as the Beechcraft 1900D and Dash 8), the number of spots for animals on each flight is strictly limited. We recommend booking the transport service as early as possible — ideally immediately after purchasing your ticket — to guarantee a spot for your pet.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Pet in Cabin)
This option is suitable for small cats and dogs. The service is available on most scheduled routes, for example, if you are flying to Kelowna or planning a trip from Vancouver.

• Carrier Type: Only soft-sided carriers are permitted in the cabin. Hard plastic containers are prohibited as they do not fit in the limited space under the seats of small regional aircraft.
• Dimensions: The carrier must fit freely under the seat in front of you. Recommended dimensions should not exceed 44 cm (length) x 38 cm (width) x 23 cm (height).
• Weight: The maximum weight of the animal combined with the carrier is 10 kg.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position inside the bag.
• Limit: One carrier per passenger is allowed.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)
If your pet is too large for the cabin, it may travel in a special heated section of the baggage hold. Please note that not all CMA aircraft are equipped with such compartments.

• Container: An IATA (International Air Transport Association) approved rigid plastic container with a secure lock and metal grate is required. Soft bags are not accepted in the hold.
• Cage Requirements: The bottom must be waterproof and covered with absorbent material. If the cage has wheels, they must be removed.
• Weather Restrictions: The airline reserves the right to refuse transport if extreme temperatures at the departure airport (e.g., during a freezing winter in Edmonton) or arrival airport could threaten the animal's health.
• Booking: Confirmation from the airline is required at least 48 hours before departure.

As Cargo (CMA Cargo)
For very large dogs, as well as for animals traveling without their owner, the cargo service is used.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal and cage exceeds baggage allowances or the aircraft type does not permit live animals in the baggage hold.
• Processing: Drop-off and collection of the animal take place through the cargo terminal, which requires arriving at the airport well in advance.

Necessary Documents

The owner bears full responsibility for having all necessary documents. This is especially important for connecting flights or international travel.

• Veterinary passport with current records.
• Valid vaccination certificate (primarily against rabies), issued by a licensed veterinarian.
• Tag on the collar with the pet's name and owner's contact phone number.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid for additionally at check-in. Prices are indicative and depend on the route:

• In Cabin: The service cost ranges from 50 to 75 CAD per flight segment.
• In Baggage Hold: The price varies from 75 to 120 CAD one way. This is relevant, for example, for flights between Calgary and the airline's hub — the city of Prince George.

Restrictions and Tips

• Breeds: Due to the risk of respiratory issues, CMA may restrict the transport of brachycephalic dog breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers) and cats (Persian, Exotic) in the baggage hold.
• Age: Puppies and kittens older than 8 weeks (on some routes — older than 10 weeks) are accepted for travel.
• Service Dogs: Certified guide dogs travel in the cabin free of charge provided they have supporting documents and a special harness. The airline must be notified of such a passenger in advance.
• Sedatives: The airline does not recommend giving animals sedatives before the flight, as this can unpredictably affect their blood pressure and breathing at altitude.

Important: Airline policies and fees are subject to change. We strongly recommend contacting the Central Mountain Air call center (1-888-865-8585) 72 hours before departure to confirm the pet reservation and clarify all details.

Loyalty Program and Partnerships

Currently, Central Mountain Air (CMA) does not have its own independent loyalty program for earning miles. However, this does not mean a lack of privileges for passengers. The carrier focuses on deep integration into Canada's transport network through strategic partnerships with major market players. This allows travelers to enjoy the benefits of a unified route network and, under certain conditions, earn points with global alliances.

Interline Partnerships: Travel Without Borders

The main advantage for tourists planning complex routes is the existing Interline Agreements with national giants: Air Canada and WestJet. Thanks to this cooperation, regional CMA flights become a convenient part of a larger journey.

What this offers the passenger:

• Single Ticket: You can issue one ticket for a flight from a small regional airport to anywhere in the world. For example, a flight from Terrace to Toronto or London with a connection in Vancouver will be issued on a single document.
• Through Baggage Check: Upon departure, you do not need to collect your suitcase at the transfer point and check it in again. Baggage will be checked through to the final destination.
• Connection Guarantee: If the first flight is delayed due to the airline's fault, partners will ensure rebooking on the next available flight without additional charges.

Earning Aeroplan Points

Although CMA does not have its own loyalty card, passengers can earn miles with the popular Aeroplan program, but there is an important nuance. Point accrual depends not on whose plane you fly, but on where and how the ticket was purchased.

How to get miles:

• Code-share: You will receive Aeroplan miles only if you purchased the ticket through Air Canada, and your flight is assigned an Air Canada flight number (starts with the code AC), even if the flight is physically operated by a Central Mountain Air aircraft.
• Direct Purchase: If you buy a ticket directly on the Central Mountain Air website (flight under code 9M), Aeroplan points for this flight are not accrued.

This rule is particularly relevant for popular routes connecting hubs, for example, between Vancouver and Kelowna. If Star Alliance status is important to you, we recommend booking such flights via the partner's website.

Corporate Privileges and Flexible Fares

Instead of a standard bonus program for individuals, Central Mountain Air offers flexible solutions for businesses and frequent flyers for whom convenience and predictable costs are more important than "virtual currency."

Corporate clients and organizations whose employees frequently fly on routes such as Edmonton — Prince George or Calgary can expect special conditions:

• Fixed Fares: The ability to lock in the cost of a flight, protecting the company budget from seasonal price spikes.
• Booking Flexibility: Simplified rules for cancellation or changing departure dates, which is critical for dynamic business schedules.
• Priority: Individual approach to resolving non-standard situations via a dedicated support line.

Cabin Classes and Onboard Comfort

Travel with Central Mountain Air (CMA) differs from flights on large mainline liners. The focus here is not on premium luxury, but on efficiency, speed, and the cozy atmosphere of regional aviation. The airline offers a single standard of service, which can be described as "enhanced economy," where every passenger receives personal attention thanks to the small number of seats in the cabin.

Cabin Features and Seat Configuration
The main advantage of CMA's small aircraft (Beechcraft 1900D, Dornier 328, Dash 8) is the absence of the uncomfortable "middle seat." The cabin configuration typically follows a 1+1 or 2+2 layout. This means every passenger sits either by a window or an aisle. For instance, when flying out of the airline's hub in Prince George, you are guaranteed an excellent view of the British Columbia landscapes or convenient access to the aisle.

Seats on Central Mountain Air aircraft are designed taking into account the short duration of flights. They have standard width and sufficient legroom, making even a fully booked flight comfortable. Cleanliness is maintained in the cabins, and the compact dimensions of the aircraft create an almost exclusive atmosphere during the flight.

Food and Beverages
Onboard service depends on the duration of your route. On most scheduled flights, such as the journey between Vancouver and Kelowna, passengers are offered:

• Beverages: Complimentary water, juices, soft drinks, as well as coffee and tea.
• Snacks: Light snacks (biscuits, crackers, crisps).

Full hot meals are generally not provided on CMA flights due to the lack of galley equipment on smaller aircraft and the short flight times. If your journey takes you to Terrace, for example, and you expect to be hungry, we recommend bringing a sandwich or salad with you — airline rules permit this.

Entertainment and Connectivity
There are no built-in multimedia screens or Wi-Fi systems on board Central Mountain Air aircraft. This is a great excuse for a "digital detox." The main entertainment during a flight to Calgary or back becomes the view from the window: the airline's routes pass over some of the most picturesque mountain ranges and forests in North America. We recommend downloading movies, music, or books to your personal devices in advance to pass the time.

Lavatories
It is important to note that on the smallest aircraft, such as the Beechcraft 1900D, a lavatory may be absent or very limited in size. More spacious Dash 8 and Dornier 328 aircraft are equipped with lavatories. Flight attendants will always advise on the technical features of the specific aircraft before departure.

Special Services and Passenger Assistance

Despite its regional status, Central Mountain Air adheres to high standards of care for passengers with special needs. The friendliness and responsiveness of the crew are the company's trademark.

Passengers with Disabilities
The airline provides assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as stowing wheelchairs in the baggage hold. Given that boarding small aircraft is often done via stairs on the tarmac (without jet bridges), ground staff are always ready to provide physical support. The need for assistance should be communicated when booking the ticket, but no later than 48 hours before departure.

Unaccompanied Minors
CMA offers a transport service for unaccompanied minors aged 5 to 11 traveling without adults. The child remains under the constant supervision of airline staff from check-in until handover to the designated person at the destination. This service is chargeable and requires mandatory prior arrangement via the call center.

Expectant Mothers
Air travel is permitted up to the 36th week of pregnancy in the absence of complications. After the 36th week, travel is only possible with a medical certificate confirming that it is safe to fly. The airline recommends consulting a doctor before planning a trip.

Central Mountain Air's route network is focused on creating convenient connections within Canada's western provinces. The flight schedule is designed with an emphasis on high frequency on the most in-demand routes, allowing passengers to plan connections flexibly and significantly save travel time when moving between regions.

Traveler Tips: How to Fly with Central Mountain Air with Value and Comfort

Regional flights have their own specifics, and preparing for them differs from planning a transatlantic journey. To ensure your flight with Central Mountain Air (CMA) goes as smoothly as possible and your ticket costs less, we have gathered several proven recommendations.

Best Time to Book
Since the airline's fleet consists of smaller aircraft with limited seating, popular flights, for example, from Calgary to the airline's hub Prince George, fill up very quickly.

• The 14-Day Rule: Try to buy tickets at least two weeks before departure. "Last minute" fares with regional carriers are often the highest.
• Seasonality: If you are planning a trip to Kelowna during the ski season or in summer, book seats 1–2 months in advance.

How to Catch Low Fares and Promotions
Central Mountain Air regularly holds promotions known as "Seat Sales." To not miss out on savings:

• Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is the most reliable way to learn about discounts first. You can subscribe on the main page of the official website.
• Social Media: The airline often publishes promo codes on its Facebook and Twitter (X) pages. This is especially relevant for short routes, such as flights to Terrace.
• Flexible Dates: Check prices for adjacent dates. Sometimes a flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday can cost significantly less than on a Friday or Sunday.

Online Check-in: Saving Time
We strongly recommend checking in online. It opens 24 hours before departure and closes 60 minutes prior.

• This allows you to select the best seat in the cabin.
• If you are flying with carry-on baggage only, you can skip the check-in counter queue and head straight to security.
• Remember that at some smaller airports, check-in counters close strictly 45 minutes before departure, so online check-in is your insurance against arriving late.

Mobile Capabilities
It is important to know that Central Mountain Air currently does not have a downloadable mobile app. Do not try to search for it in app stores to avoid third-party services. Instead, use the mobile version of the site flycma.com. It is well-optimized: via smartphone, you can easily buy a ticket, check in for a flight, and save your boarding pass to your digital wallet.

Seat Selection: Best Views
Flights over British Columbia and Alberta are always a sightseeing tour.

• No Middle Seats: A big plus of the CMA fleet is the absence of middle seats. You will always sit either by the window or the aisle.
• Route Tip: If you are flying from Vancouver inland, try to secure a Window seat in advance. Views of the Rocky Mountains and forests from the altitude of a turboprop aircraft (which flies lower than jet liners) are breathtaking.

Travel Insurance: Why It's Important
Regional aviation in Canada is highly dependent on weather conditions. Mountain fog or snowfalls in Edmonton can lead to flight delays or cancellations.
Our Advice: Always purchase insurance covering flight delays or cancellations (Trip Interruption/Cancellation Insurance). This will save your nerves and money by ensuring compensation for hotels or meals in case of bad weather, which is especially relevant for winter travel.

History and Development: From Charters to Regional Leader

The history of Central Mountain Air (CMA) began in 1987 in the small town of Smithers, located in the picturesque Bulkley Valley in British Columbia. What started as a modest charter carrier serving the needs of local residents and businesses quickly grew into an ambitious project. In its early years, the company focused on providing transport accessibility to remote settlements where aviation is often the only reliable link to the outside world.

Key Expansion Milestones
A turning point came in the 1990s when CMA began operating scheduled flights. A strategic decision was the creation of a hub airport in Prince George. This allowed the airline to become a connecting link between the north of the province and major metropolises. An important stage of development was the long-term cooperation with the national carrier Air Canada, under which CMA operated regional flights, adopting high standards of service and safety.

Fleet Evolution
With the growth of the route network, the company's fleet also changed. While in its early days Central Mountain Air used small piston aircraft, the expansion of flight geography created a need for faster and higher-capacity machines. The core of the fleet was formed by reliable turboprop aircraft Beechcraft 1900D, perfectly suited for mountain airfields. Later, to improve passenger comfort and increase flight range, for example on routes to Vancouver and Calgary, more spacious Dornier 328 and De Havilland Dash 8 aircraft were acquired.

Mergers and New Horizons
A significant event in corporate history was the acquisition of Northern Thunderbird Air (NT Air) in 2005. This merger strengthened CMA's position in the charter and medical evacuation market, and also allowed for the optimization of resources to serve hard-to-reach areas. Thanks to competent management, the airline was able not only to maintain a presence in key points such as Edmonton and Kelowna but also to launch new routes where large airliners could not land.

Modern Era
Today, Central Mountain Air continues to develop as an independent regional carrier, implementing modern booking technologies and improving customer service. The company actively adapts to changing market conditions, remaining true to its original goal — connecting people and communities across Western Canada. The launch of new direct flights, such as connections with the city of Terrace, confirms the airline's commitment to making travel around the region as convenient and fast as possible.