Campbell River Airport

Campbell River Airport is not merely a point on the map, but a true aerial gateway to the "Salmon Capital of the World" and the wilderness of Vancouver Island. Instead of the usual hustle and bustle of giant aviation hubs, you will be greeted here by the tranquillity and measured rhythm of life characteristic of British Columbia. Situated amidst dense forests, this small yet cosy airport immediately tunes travellers into a frequency of adventure, whether it be fishing in ocean waters or an expedition to mountain parks. For many tourists, it is precisely here that their acquaintance with the authentic atmosphere of the Canadian North begins.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of YBL is its compact nature and speed of service. There are practically no queues here, and the journey from the check-in counter to the boarding gate takes mere minutes, allowing you to save precious holiday time. The airport is renowned for its friendly staff, who are always ready to assist and direct you, creating a sense of home-like comfort.

Another important feature is its strategic location. The airport is located directly off the highway leading to popular tourist routes, making it an ideal starting point for trips to Strathcona Provincial Park or the Mount Washington ski resort. For travellers by car, convenient parking is provided within walking distance of the terminal, and the views of the Strait of Georgia and coastal mountains during take-off and landing are breathtaking.

If you need to contact the administration of Campbell River Airport (YBL) or obtain additional information, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: Current flight schedules, news, and general information can be found on the airport's official website: www.ybl.ca.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +1 250-923-5012.
• Airport Address: 2000 Jubilee Pkwy, Campbell River, BC V9H 1T6, Canada.
• Email: For written enquiries, use the address: airport@campbellriver.ca.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you flew with directly. Airline contacts are usually listed on their official websites.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and passenger support, you may use the airport's main telephone number or email address.

There are several ways to get to Campbell River Airport (YBL), located approximately 9 km south of the city centre of Campbell River. The choice of the appropriate option depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel around the picturesque Vancouver Island in Canada.

Taxis and Shuttles. This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. A taxi ride from the city centre will take about 15-20 minutes. The cost of the trip is usually between 25-35 Canadian dollars. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, so it is worth checking this possibility when booking.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car is the ideal choice. Several major rental companies have offices at the airport and in the city itself. Having your own transport will give you the freedom to move around Vancouver Island. The road from the city centre to the airport is simple and well-signposted.

Public Transport. Direct bus services to Campbell River Airport may be limited. The BC Transit public transport system serves the city, but the nearest stops may be at a significant distance from the terminal, which would require an additional taxi ride. This option is the most budget-friendly but the least convenient, especially if you have luggage.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own vehicle, both short-term and long-term parking is provided at the airport. This is a convenient option if you are flying away for a few days and wish to leave your car in a safe place.

Travellers should also consider alternative airports, especially if you are looking for more flight options. The largest of these are Comox Airport (YQQ), located approximately 38 km away, and Nanaimo Airport (YCD), 142 km to the south. Also within reach are airports in Powell River, Tofino, and Port Hardy.

Campbell River Airport (YBL) is a compact regional airport characterised by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one main terminal which handles all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its small size and thoughtful layout, navigating here is very easy, making the journey as comfortable as possible and eliminating the stress often associated with major aviation hubs.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Practically all services and zones are located on one level within walking distance of each other. Immediately upon entering the building, you will see the airline check-in counters. The departure zone, including a small waiting lounge and boarding gate, is located immediately after the security checkpoint. The arrival zone is located here as well and consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the public area, where car rental desks are situated.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Campbell River Airport usually takes very little time. Due to low passenger traffic, queues for check-in and security screening are typically minimal. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before your flight's departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without haste. During peak seasons or in case of adverse weather conditions, it is worth allowing a little more time.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, there is no need for transfers between terminals. Everything you need — from check-in counters to the gate — is located in one small building. Navigation is intuitive, and signs clearly lead passengers along the required route. This makes YBL an ideal choice for those who value their time and prefer a calm start to their journey.

The history of Campbell River Airport (YBL) begins in 1957, when it was officially opened. Its creation was an important step for the development of the city of Campbell River and the entire northern region of Vancouver Island. Initially, the airfield was built to replace an old runway and improve transport accessibility for the growing forestry and fishing industries of Canada.

Over the decades, the airport has played a key role in the life of the local community. It served not only for passenger and cargo transport but also as a base for air ambulance services and forest fire fighting operations, which is particularly important in this region. As the city grew and tourism developed, the airport gradually expanded to meet growing needs and increasing passenger traffic.

A significant stage in the airport's history was a major modernisation, culminating in the opening of a new modern terminal in 2007. This event radically changed the face of YBL, increasing its capacity and the level of comfort for passengers. In addition to the new building, work was carried out to improve the runway and navigation equipment, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft and ensure a high level of flight safety.

Today, Campbell River Airport is not just a transport hub, but an important gateway for tourists seeking to explore the wilderness of Vancouver Island. Although the airport cannot boast world-scale records, its main achievement is the reliable and uninterrupted connection of the region with the rest of the world for over half a century. An interesting fact: it is from here that the journey begins for many travellers setting off on whale safaris or world-class fishing trips.

Campbell River Airport (YBL) is a compact regional terminal that offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the airport is designed to ensure convenience and functionality for all categories of travellers.

A small café operates within the terminal building, where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments before departure. You can also usually find a small selection of souvenirs and travel goods here. For those who wish to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Charging zones for electronic devices are also equipped so you can prepare your gadgets for the flight.

Although the airport does not have specialised VIP lounges or business centres, the general waiting areas are quite comfortable. ATMs are installed for financial transactions; however, currency exchange services are absent, so it is recommended to take care of this in the city beforehand. In case of necessity, airport staff can provide first aid.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, specially equipped toilets, and assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking (upon prior request via the airline). For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is provided where you can care for your baby in a quiet environment. There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Campbell River itself, which is located a few minutes' drive away.

Campbell River Airport (YBL) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite compact and designed to meet the basic needs of passengers before departure. Nevertheless, you will be able to find a place to have a snack or drink coffee.

The main and, in fact, the only place for dining at the airport is the On the Fly Cafe. It is located in the main terminal building, in the public zone (landside), that is, before passing through security control. This is an important point: if you want a full meal, it is better to do so before you proceed to the departure zone, as dining opportunities are absent after security screening (airside).

In the menu of On the Fly Cafe, you will find a standard set for a quick snack: freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, pastries, sandwiches, soups, and various snacks. It is an ideal place both for quickly drinking a morning espresso and for a light lunch while waiting for a flight. Prices here are quite moderate, comparable to city cafés. Regarding special dietary options, the selection may be limited. Usually, vegetarian sandwiches can be found, but passengers with stricter requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or halal meals) are recommended to have their own snacks with them.

The cafe's opening hours are directly tied to the flight schedule. As a rule, On the Fly Cafe opens early in the morning, well before the first departure, and closes after the departure of the last aircraft. This guarantees that practically all passengers will be able to use it.

Travelling through Campbell River Airport (YBL) usually proceeds easily and without fuss, as it is a small regional airport. However, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable. When planning a departure from the city of Campbell River, try to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage and pass through security control without haste. To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure.

The screening procedure at regional airports in Canada is typically faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, the rules for hand luggage are standard: all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous substances are prohibited. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: window seats will gift you stunning views of Vancouver Island during take-off and landing, while aisle seats ensure more legroom and freedom of movement.

If you have a connecting flight, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you are arriving from abroad. International passengers usually undergo customs and immigration control at the first airport of arrival in Canada (for example, in Vancouver), after which they transfer to a domestic flight to Campbell River. This means that upon arrival at YBL, you will not need to pass through customs. To save money, book your airport transfer in advance, study your airline's baggage allowance to avoid extra charges, and take an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. They will provide current information and explain your rights, including potential provision of meals or accommodation depending on the duration of the delay. It is useful to have essentials in your hand luggage: a phone charger, medication, a light snack, and a book or tablet to pass the waiting time. Check your flight status online in advance before leaving for the airport to avoid unpleasant surprises.