Nanaimo Airport

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is not just an air hub, but a true gateway to the picturesque Vancouver Island in Canada. Located in the very heart of the island, it serves as a key node connecting the region with the country's largest cities and the entire world. The airport terminal proudly bears the name of Raymond Collishaw, a First World War ace born in Nanaimo. The airport is constantly evolving, reinvesting profits into modernisation and improving passenger services, making it a modern and convenient starting point for your journey.

Despite its relatively small size, Nanaimo Airport offers passengers everything necessary for a comfortable journey. Thanks to a recent runway extension, it can accommodate larger aircraft, which expands the flight geography. For travellers by car, there is convenient parking with affordable rates and electric vehicle charging stations. Inside the terminal, a friendly atmosphere reigns, and the "Blue Navigators Ambassadors" volunteer team is always ready to help you find your way and answer any questions.

It is easy to get from the airport to the city and other points on the island — taxis, shuttle buses, and car rental services are available to passengers. Regular flights to Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton ensure convenient connections for flights around the world, allowing you to depart from Nanaimo in the morning and reach many corners of the planet on the same day. The airport is actively developing: plans include a large-scale terminal expansion, promising even more amenities and new routes in the future.

If you need to contact representatives of Nanaimo Airport (YCD), please use the following contact information:

• Official Website: www.nanaimoairport.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 250-245-4191
• Airport Address: 3350 Spitfire Way, Cassidy, BC V0R 1H0, Canada
• Email: For general inquiries, you can write to info@nanaimoairport.com.
• Social Media: Current information and news can be found on the airport's official social media pages, such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost something within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration. If your items were lost on board the aircraft or during the flight, you should contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to airport services, you can call the main help desk number.

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is located approximately 18 kilometres south of the city centre of Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island in Canada. You can reach the terminal in several ways, so you can easily choose the option that suits your budget, time, and comfort level.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. BC Transit buses operate in the region, however, it is worth noting that there is no direct route to the terminal doors. The nearest bus stop is located on the highway, approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the airport building. This option is suitable for travellers with light luggage who do not mind a short walk.

Taxis and Ride-sharing Services (such as Uber) are the fastest and most convenient method. A trip from downtown Nanaimo to the airport will take about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of a taxi ride is 35–45 Canadian dollars. This is the ideal choice if you are travelling with a lot of luggage, with family, or simply value your time and comfort.

Transfers and Shuttles are a good alternative to taxis. Several private companies offer shuttle services to the airport, which must be booked in advance. This can be particularly beneficial for groups, as the cost per person is often lower than a taxi. Shuttles pick up passengers from hotels or other agreed locations in the city.

If you explored the island in a rental car, you can return it directly at the airport without any issues. Counters for several major rental companies are located here. For those driving to the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is available just a few steps from the terminal.

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is a small regional airport characterised by its compactness and simple structure. It consists of one passenger terminal that handles all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. This makes navigation through the airport intuitively clear and fast, even for those visiting for the first time.

The terminal layout is very logical. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, which leads to a cosy departure lounge with several boarding gates. Arrival and departure zones are located in the same building, eliminating the need for long walks. The arrival area with the baggage claim belt is situated so that finding it after landing is effortless.

Due to the small size of the terminal and moderate passenger flow, the time required to complete all pre-flight formalities at Nanaimo Airport is usually minimal. Typically, check-in and security screening take very little time. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately 90 minutes before your flight's departure to go through all procedures without haste, especially during peak hours or at the height of the tourist season.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, you do not need to worry about transferring between buildings. All key areas — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within walking distance of each other. Clear signage will help you orient yourself easily, making your stay at the airport as comfortable as possible before your journey across Vancouver Island in Canada.

The history of Nanaimo Airport begins during the Second World War. It was established in 1942 as a training base for the Royal Canadian Air Force within the framework of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Initially, the facility was military in nature and played an important role in training pilots and crews for combat operations.

After the end of the war, in 1946, the airfield was transferred to civilian authorities and began serving commercial flights. It was named Cassidy Airport after the nearby settlement. For decades, it functioned as a modest regional airport, serving mainly local transport and private aviation.

A key stage of development began at the end of the 20th century when the management of the airport was transferred to the specially created Nanaimo Airport Commission. This sparked large-scale modernisation. In 2011, a significant reconstruction and extension of the runway was completed, allowing for the acceptance of larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737, and expanding the flight network.

In recent years, the airport has undergone another major transformation: a multi-stage project to expand the passenger terminal was implemented. The building was nearly doubled in size, significantly increasing capacity, adding new boarding gates, improving the security screening area, and creating more comfortable conditions for passengers. Thanks to these investments, Nanaimo Airport has repeatedly broken passenger traffic records, becoming one of the fastest-growing airports on Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for traveller convenience.

You can have a snack before departure or buy souvenirs at the Connections Cafe & Gift Shop, located in the terminal building. It offers a selection of hot and cold beverages, fresh pastries, sandwiches, as well as travel essentials and gifts.

Free Wi-Fi is available to passengers throughout the terminal. Special charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting lounges. Although there are no separate VIP lounges at the airport, the waiting areas are equipped with comfortable seating.

An ATM is installed in the terminal for financial transactions. There is no currency exchange office at the airport, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case first aid is required, please approach any airport staff member.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility. There are ramps, accessible restrooms, and special assistance for boarding and disembarking. To receive assistance, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. Families with small children can use the baby changing facilities located in the restrooms.

There are no hotels directly at the airport, but several accommodation options can be found just a few minutes away by car. For business travellers, the airport offers a Boardroom for rent, equipped with everything necessary for meetings and negotiations.

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is a compact regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments is concentrated in one main café and lounge. Nevertheless, they offer enough options to have a comfortable snack or lunch while waiting for a flight.

The main place for dining is Connections Cafe, located in the main part of the terminal, before the security checkpoint (landside). This makes it accessible to both departing and arriving passengers, as well as those meeting them. Here you can find a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads are suitable for a quick snack. If you have more time, you can order hot dishes, such as the soup of the day or a burger. The café offers a wide selection of coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

After passing security control, in the departure zone (airside), passengers can visit the Connections Lounge. This establishment is more oriented towards relaxation before a flight. Here, guests can order various beverages, including local selections from Canada, as well as light snacks. The atmosphere in the lounge is calmer, which is ideal for waiting for boarding.

Regarding special dietary needs, the menu usually includes vegetarian options (for example, salads or vegetable sandwiches) and gluten-free variants — it is better to check their availability with the staff. Finding certified Halal or Kosher meals may be difficult. Be sure to try the local dessert — the famous "Nanaimo Bar", which will likely be on the menu. This is a triple-layer chocolate treat named after the city.

Prices in the airport establishments can be described as average for Canadian airports, meaning slightly higher than in city cafés. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: the café opens before the first morning departures and closes after the departure of the last evening flight, ensuring passenger service throughout the day.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Nanaimo goes as smoothly as possible, follow these tips. Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is a regional hub serving mostly domestic flights, making it quite convenient and simple to navigate.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. For domestic flights within Canada, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure. Although queues here are rarely long, extra time will allow you to go through all procedures without haste. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone.

Security Screening. Procedures are standard for Canadian airports. Be prepared to present your boarding pass and photo identification. Laptops and large electronics will need to be removed from bags. Remember the restriction on carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent resealable bag.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. When flying to and from Vancouver Island, a window seat can offer you unforgettable views. Depending on the route, you will be able to admire the Strait of Georgia, numerous islands, or the snow-capped peaks of the coastal mountains. If comfort and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

Connecting Passengers. Nanaimo Airport is compact, so navigating between flights will not cause difficulties. If you are transferring to another domestic flight, you will likely not have to go through security control again. When transferring to an international flight at another Canadian airport (for example, in Vancouver or Calgary), your luggage is usually checked through to the final destination, and you will go through customs control at the last airport of departure from the country.

Customs Control. Since most flights from Nanaimo are domestic, there is no customs control upon departure. When arriving in Nanaimo on an international flight (which happens rarely), you will need to go through the standard procedure of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Saving Tips. To save money, book flight tickets and airport parking in advance. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, and snacks that are not prohibited — this will help avoid extra expenses in the terminal.

What to do if a flight is delayed? In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the check-in counter. Clarify information about the new departure time and your rights to compensation (for example, vouchers for food or accommodation). The airport has free Wi-Fi and a café where you can comfortably wait for your flight.