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Bathurst Airport

About the Airport

Bathurst Airport (ZBF) is not just a dot on the map of Canada's air routes, but a cosy gateway to the picturesque Chaleur Bay region of New Brunswick. For many travellers, the introduction to the beauty of the Acadian Coast begins right here, in this small but very convenient air harbour. From here opens a direct path to nature parks, historic villages, and the welcoming beaches of the Atlantic coast.

Bathurst Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
IATA Code ZBF
ICAO Code CZBF
City Bathurst
Distance to centre approx. 15 km
Status domestic
Annual passengers approx. 48,000 (until 2020)
Popular Airlines Air Canada Express, PAL Airlines

The main advantage of Bathurst Airport is its compactness and efficiency. There are no long queues or the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs, allowing passengers to complete all pre-flight procedures quickly and without stress. The airport plays a key role in the transport system of northern New Brunswick, ensuring reliable connections with major cities such as Montreal.

Despite its modest size, the terminal offers basic amenities for a comfortable wait, including free Wi-Fi and car rental services. Its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Acadian Coast, Kouchibouguac National Park, and other natural and cultural treasures of the region.

Contact Information

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Bathurst Airport (ZBF). We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

  • Official website: bathurstairport.com
  • Information desk phone: +1 (506) 549-5050
  • Airport address: 2350, Route 11, Bathurst, NB E2A 7S7, Canada
  • Email: info@bathurstairport.com
  • Social media: the airport maintains a page on Facebook, where you can follow the news.
  • Lost luggage information: for items left in the terminal building, please contact the administration at +1 (506) 549-5050. If your items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline representatives directly.
  • Passenger support contacts: for general questions and consultations, you can use the main phone number or email address.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Bathurst Airport (ZBF) from the city centre of Bathurst is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. A car journey usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes, but this time may vary slightly depending on traffic conditions. Travellers have several convenient transport options available.

Taxis and transfers are the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. You can easily call a taxi from anywhere in the city or use the services of local transfer companies, which often offer advance booking. This is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. The estimated cost of a trip from the city centre is 25–35 Canadian dollars, making this option not only fast but also quite affordable.

For those planning to move actively around the region, car rental is the ideal choice. Rental desks operate in the city of Bathurst and directly at the airport. Rental costs usually start from 50–60 Canadian dollars per day for an economy class car. By booking a car online in advance, you can save time and choose a suitable model. The airport provides convenient parking, where you can leave your car for both short and long terms.

Public transport options in this region of Canada are limited, and there is generally no direct bus service to the airport. City bus routes do not serve the airport directly, so a trip would require a transfer, which can be inconvenient. If you are still considering this option, be sure to check the schedule and routes in advance. However, to save time and ensure comfort, it is recommended to choose a taxi or a rental car.

Terminals and Map

Bathurst Airport (ZBF) is a small and compact regional airport, the main feature of which is simplicity and convenience for passengers. Here you will not find a complex structure with multiple terminals, making it ideal for those who value a quick and calm journey.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, navigating here is extremely easy. The terminal layout is intuitive: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off are located. After checking in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, behind which lies a small but cosy waiting lounge with boarding gates.

Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, eliminating the need for long walks or transport. After the aircraft lands, passengers walk to the terminal building, where they enter the baggage claim area located near the exit. Since there is only one terminal, the question of transfers between them does not arise — everything is under one roof and within walking distance.

One of the main advantages of Bathurst Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take minimum time, as there are rarely large queues here. As a rule, arriving at the airport 60-90 minutes before a domestic flight departure is more than sufficient. The main advice for navigation is simple: do not worry — it is practically impossible to get lost here, and the entire path from the building entrance to the boarding gate will take you just a few minutes.

Airport History

The history of Bathurst Airport (ZBF) begins in 1957 when it was built and opened by the Ministry of Transport of Canada. For the first forty years of its existence, it was under federal management, serving the needs of the Chaleur region. A turning point in its development was 1997, when the management of the airport was transferred to the local non-profit corporation, Bathurst Airport Commission Inc. This step allowed for more effective and targeted development of the air harbour in accordance with the needs of the local community and business.

The beginning of the 21st century marked a series of major modernisation projects for Bathurst Airport. One of the most significant stages was the extension of the runway. Initially, its length was increased to 1,524 metres (5,000 feet), and later to 1,829 metres (6,000 feet). This strategic decision allowed the airport to accept larger jet aircraft, such as the Bombardier CRJ, which significantly expanded the geography of flights and increased its competitiveness.

A key milestone in recent history was the complete reconstruction of the passenger terminal. The old building could no longer cope with the growing flow of passengers and did not meet modern comfort standards. In 2014, a new modern terminal was opened, offering passengers more spacious waiting lounges, improved amenities, and more efficient service. This project not only transformed the appearance of the airport but also significantly improved the quality of travel for residents and guests of the region.

Today, Bathurst Airport is not just a dot on the map, but a vital transport hub for the northern part of New Brunswick province. It plays a strategic role in the economic life of the region, supporting industries such as tourism and mining. Thanks to constant improvements and competent management, the airport successfully provides reliable and modern air connectivity, making a significant contribution to the prosperity of the local community.

Services and Amenities

Bathurst Airport (ZBF) is a compact regional airport in Canada, which nevertheless offers all the basic amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight. In the general waiting lounge, you can relax before departure by using the free Wi-Fi for work or communicating with loved ones. Special charging stations are provided within the terminal for recharging gadgets.

For those wishing to have a snack, there is a small café serving light bites and beverages. The selection of shops here is small, but you can find the essentials. There are ATMs in the terminal building for withdrawing cash, however, specialised currency exchange points are absent, so it is recommended to take care of local currency in advance.

The airport pays attention to the needs of all categories of travellers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with children. A barrier-free environment is ensured for travellers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. You can also request staff assistance for escorting through the terminal. There is no specialised medical centre at the airport, but if first aid is required, you should contact any staff member — they will promptly call qualified specialists.

There are no hotels, VIP lounges, or business centres within the airport itself. However, many options for accommodation and business meetings can easily be found in the city of Bathurst, which is located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

Dining

When planning a flight from Bathurst Airport (ZBF), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and dining options correspond to its compact size. Unlike large international hubs, the choice of establishments here is limited, but quite sufficient for a snack before departure.

All available options for passengers are concentrated in the single terminal. The main place to eat is a small café or snack bar, usually located in the public area before security control (landside). Here, travellers can purchase sandwiches, fresh pastries, salads, crisps, and other light snacks. Beverages offered include coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks. This is an excellent option for a quick snack if you do not have much time before your flight.

Regarding a full hot lunch or dinner, possibilities at the airport are extremely limited. The café menu is mainly focused on light meals. There are no exquisite offers of local cuisine or specialised restaurants here. Passengers with strict dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or halal options) are strongly advised to bring food with you, as it is difficult to guarantee the availability of such dishes in the local café.

Prices for food and drinks can be described as average for airports. The opening hours of the establishment are usually tied to the flight schedule, so the café is open during periods of highest activity. For a more substantial meal and a wider choice of dishes, the best solution would be to visit one of the restaurants or cafés in the city of Bathurst itself before travelling to the airport.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Bathurst Airport is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, take advantage of our tips. Bathurst Airport (ZBF) is a regional hub, making it more convenient and less congested compared to large international hubs, but proper preparation is always important.

Arrival time at the airport. Despite the airport's compact size, it is recommended to arrive in advance. For domestic flights within Canada, try to be at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be enough to calmly check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate.

Check-in and security control. The fastest way to check in for a flight is online check-in, available on your airline's website 24 hours before departure. This way you can avoid queues at the counters. When passing through security, prepare your boarding pass and ID in advance. All electronics (laptops, tablets) should be removed from bags, and liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag.

Seat selection. If the airline allows you to choose a seat, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Rows in the front of the cabin allow you to leave the aircraft faster upon arrival.

Hand luggage. Be sure to put all valuables in your hand luggage: documents, money, electronics, prescription medicines, and fragile items. It is strictly forbidden to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. It is recommended to bring a portable charger and a light snack.

Connecting passengers. If you have a connecting flight, check at registration whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination. Study the map of the transfer airport in advance and ensure you have enough time between flights — allow at least 1.5-2 hours.

Customs and border control. It is important to note that Bathurst Airport serves exclusively domestic flights. This means that passengers do not need to pass through customs or border control, which significantly simplifies and speeds up pre-flight formalities.

Saving time and money. Book flight tickets and, if necessary, airport parking in advance — this is usually cheaper. To avoid spending money on food at the airport, bring permitted snacks with you. You can also take an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security control at special water fountains.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact the airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights (drinks, meals, hotel accommodation). Monitor announcements and information on the departure boards. Have a book, headphones, or downloaded films on your tablet to pass the waiting time.

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