Comox Airport

Comox Airport (YQQ), located in a picturesque valley on Vancouver Island, serves as a modern and convenient aerial gateway for travellers seeking to explore the natural beauty of Canada. This air harbour is not merely a transit point, but the starting point for unforgettable adventures, whether it be winter sports, maritime excursions, or discovering the unique culture of the region. Thanks to its strategic location and growing network of routes, Comox Airport is becoming an increasingly popular choice for both Canadian and international tourists.

Features and Advantages

Comox Airport prides itself not only on its growing passenger traffic but also on its unique characteristics. It shares its runway with a Royal Canadian Air Force base, ensuring the highest level of service and safety. This runway, 3,048 metres long, is the longest on Vancouver Island, allowing it to accommodate various types of aircraft. The airport offers direct flights to major cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver, as well as seasonal international flights, for example to Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), making it an ideal starting point for travel across North America.

• Official Website: www.comoxairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 250-890-0829
• Address: 1250 Knight Road, Comox, BC V9M 4H2, Canada
• Email: info@comoxairport.com
• Social Media: The airport maintains official pages on social networks such as Facebook. Current links for communication can be found on their website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline directly. If you have left personal belongings in the terminal, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information about airport operations, please use the information desk phone. For questions regarding tickets, check-in, and flight status, it is necessary to contact the airline operating the flight.

Getting to Comox Airport (YQQ), which serves the scenic valley on Vancouver Island, is quite simple. Whether you are travelling from the city centre of Comox or from neighbouring settlements in Canada, you have several convenient transport options.

Public Transport

The most economical way to reach the airport is to use the BC Transit public transport system. Buses operate throughout the Comox Valley. Although routes may not always go directly to the terminal doors, the nearest stops are usually within a reasonable distance. It is recommended to check the current schedule and routes on the official BC Transit website in advance to plan your trip, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Taxi and Transfer

For maximum convenience, you can book a taxi or use shuttle services. A taxi ride from the centre of Comox to the airport usually takes only 10–15 minutes. This is an ideal option for those who value their time and comfort. Private companies offering transfer services also operate in the region and can be booked online in advance — this can be advantageous for groups or families.

Car Rental and Private Transport

If you plan to actively explore Vancouver Island, renting a car is the best solution. Counters of several major rental companies are located at Comox Airport. You can pick up the car immediately upon arrival or return it before departure. For those driving their own vehicle, the airport provides convenient parking. There are zones for short-term parking (pick-up/drop-off) and for long-term storage of the vehicle during your trip. Current parking rates can always be checked on the official YQQ airport website.

Although Comox Airport is a key transport hub for the region, it is worth mentioning other nearby airports. For instance, Campbell River Airport (YBL) is relatively close. For a wider selection of flights, including international ones, travellers sometimes consider Nanaimo Airport (YCD) or the region's largest Vancouver International Airport (YVR), however, travelling to them will require significantly more time, including a possible ferry crossing.

Comox Airport (YQQ) is a modern and compact aviation hub in Canada, distinguished by a simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal serving all domestic and international flights. Such an organization makes the airport extremely convenient for navigation, as all necessary services and zones are located in one building, and there is no need to transfer between terminals.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is single-level, eliminating confusion with floors. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. To the left and right of the entrance are arrival zones with baggage claim belts and car rental counters. After check-in, passengers proceed to the centre of the hall to the single security screening point, beyond which the departure zone begins.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Comox Airport usually takes little time due to its small size. On average, check-in and screening take about 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight to check in luggage and pass through control without rushing, especially during peak hours or the tourist season.

The departure zone, or "secure area," is a cosy waiting lounge with panoramic windows overlooking the runway. There is a café, a small souvenir shop, and free Wi-Fi here. Since all boarding gates are located in one hall, you will easily find your gate. Main navigation tip: simply follow the signs. All infrastructure is located within walking distance, and it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Comox Airport (YQQ) is closely intertwined with the military aviation of Canada. Its foundation dates back to 1942, when, at the height of World War II, it was established as a Royal Canadian Air Force base (RCAF Station Comox). The base's primary task was training crews for transport aviation. After the war, the facility was temporarily closed but reopened in 1952 due to the Cold War, transforming into a strategic point for patrol aircraft and interceptor fighters guarding North American airspace.

The transition to civilian use began as the region grew. Although the military base, now known as 19 Wing Comox, retained its significance, the demand for passenger transport increased. A turning point was the creation of a special commission (Comox Valley Airport Commission) in 1996, which took over the management of the civilian terminal. Since then, YQQ airport has been developing successfully, sharing runways with the military — a prime example of effective joint infrastructure use.

With the increase in tourist flow to Vancouver Island, the airport required significant modernization. In the early 2000s, a large-scale reconstruction and expansion of the passenger terminal was carried out. As a result, new arrival halls were built, waiting areas were expanded, and general infrastructure was improved. This allowed not only for increased capacity but also attracted major airlines, making the airport a modern and comfortable air gateway for travellers.

One of the most interesting facts about the airport is its runway, over 3,000 metres long, one of the longest on the west coast. This allows it to accept virtually any type of aircraft and serve as an alternate airfield for planes crossing the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, the Comox Air Force Museum is located on the base grounds, with exhibits recounting the rich history of aviation in this region. Today, Comox Airport is not just a transport hub, but living history, harmoniously combining military heritage and a civilian present.

Comox Airport (YQQ) offers passengers a compact yet functional set of services designed to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Despite its small size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for travellers.

You can have a bite to eat before departure at the local café, which serves light snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There is also a souvenir shop in the airport where you can purchase gifts, press, and travel essentials. The selection of establishments is small but sufficient to refresh yourself before a flight.

Free Wi-Fi is available to passengers throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or handle work matters. Special charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting lounge.

Although there are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange points at the airport, ATMs are installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals. Specialized VIP lounges are absent, however, the general waiting area is quite comfortable. Basic first aid can be provided by airport staff.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs: there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and special assistance for boarding and disembarking (it is recommended to book this service in advance through the airline). For travellers with small children, there are nursing rooms with changing tables.

There are no hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport, but just a few minutes' drive away, in the cities of Comox and Courtenay, there are many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. There are no specialized conference rooms at the airport, but free Wi-Fi and the availability of power outlets allow for comfortable work in the general waiting hall.

Comox Airport (YQQ) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but quite sufficient for a comfortable wait for your flight. The main food outlet for passengers is located in the departure zone, after passing through security control.

The main and, essentially, the only establishment is the On the Fly Café. It offers passengers various options for a snack or a full lunch. Here you can order freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as local beverages from British Columbia. The menu features made-to-order sandwiches, soups of the day, salads, as well as fresh pastries, muffins, and other desserts.

For a quick snack, ready-made sandwiches, yoghurts, or pastries are ideal. If you have time for a full lunch, consider hot soups and sandwiches prepared to your order. Regarding dietary preferences, the café usually has vegetarian options, such as vegetable sandwiches or salads. The availability of gluten-free or vegan options is best checked on-site, but choices may be limited. Passengers with strict dietary requirements (such as Halal) are recommended to carry necessary snacks with them.

The On the Fly Café is located in the airside zone, that is, after screening. This is convenient as you can eat directly before boarding the flight. The establishment's operating hours are tied to the flight schedule — it is open to serve all departing passengers, from early morning until the departure of the last evening flight. Prices here correspond to the average level for airports in Canada: slightly higher than in the city, but quite acceptable.

Travelling through Comox Airport (YQQ) usually goes smoothly and without unnecessary fuss, but a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable. The airport primarily serves domestic flights within Canada and some seasonal destinations in the USA, making it fairly predictable in terms of congestion.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. If you are flying to the USA, it is better to allow at least 2 hours. This time will be needed for calm check-in and passing through security. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.

Passing Security: The security checkpoint at Comox Airport usually operates quickly. To avoid creating delays, prepare in advance: pack all liquids up to 100 ml in one clear bag, and be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Adhering to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) rules will speed up the process for everyone.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: Want to enjoy scenic views of Vancouver Island and the Strait of Georgia? Choose a window seat. If a quick exit from the plane or extra legroom is important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Always check your airline's hand luggage allowance to avoid extra charges for exceeding weight or size limits.

Transfers and Customs: Most flights from Comox involve transfers at major hubs such as Vancouver or Calgary. Clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be checked through automatically to the final destination. It is important to know that when flying to the USA, all customs and border formalities must be completed upon arrival at the American airport, as there is no U.S. Preclearance facility at Comox Airport.

Economy and Comfort: To save on parking, book a spot in the airport parking lot online in advance. There is a café inside the terminal, but you can bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, as well as non-liquid snacks from home. Free Wi-Fi will help pass the time while waiting for your flight.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, stay calm. Monitor updates on the departure board and the airline's website. The airport has a cosy waiting area. Ensure your electronic devices are charged and use this time for reading or working. Contact an airline representative to learn about your rights to compensation or provision of services.