7 Airports In Vancouver: Your Gateway To The City

An image of an exterior view of Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in Canada.

Vancouver, located on the Pacific Coast of Canada, is a primary international gateway and a bustling hub for air travel. With a combination of extensive international airports in Vancouver, regional airports, and smaller flight centres, Vancouver offers diverse options for travellers. Whether flying internationally or hopping on a local flight to nearby cities, Vancouver’s airports provide excellent connectivity and services. Here is a list of top airports in Vancouver, providing details about their locations, airlines operating, and how to reach them.

Top 7 Airports In Vancouver

Here are the top airports in Vancouver, each serving specific travel needs, from international flights to small private aviation.

1. Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

A view of an airport with empty walkways, one of the famous airports in Vancouver.

Photo: GoToVan / Wikimedia Commons

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the busiest airport in Vancouver, British Columbia, serving as a vital hub for international and domestic flights. YVR facilitates seamless travel for millions of passengers annually with connections to over 115 destinations worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and the U.S. The airport boasts modern amenities, featuring various dining options, shopping outlets, and comfortable lounges. Committed to sustainability and exceptional service, YVR is recognised as one of the top airports globally, enhancing the travel experience for all.

Location: Richmond, Canada
How To Reach: Canada Line SkyTrain, car, or shuttle

2. Boundary Bay Airport (ZBB)

Airplane landing on a runway at an airport under a cloudy sky, viewed from a distance.

Photo: huynhkimdaihuu30051999 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Boundary Bay Airport (CZBB) is a regional airport in Delta, British Columbia, approximately 20 minutes from Vancouver. Primarily serving general aviation and private flights, it is a vital hub for flight training, hosting several esteemed aviation schools like the International Flight Centre and Pacific Flying Club. Opened in 1983, the airport has evolved significantly, becoming Canada’s second busiest general aviation airport by aircraft movements. It features two runways and modern facilities, including a new terminal with amenities such as a restaurant and pilot lounge. The airport also emphasises environmental stewardship through noise management and wildlife programs.

Location: Delta, Canada
How To Reach: By car via Highway 17; limited public transit

3. Pitt Meadows Airport (YPK)

A small aircraft parked at Pitt Meadows Airport, one of the popular airports in Vancouver.

Photo: Greg Salter / Wikimedia Commons

Pitt Meadows Airport (ICAO: CYPK) is a vital general aviation hub in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, primarily serving flight training, charter services, and private aviation. While it does not accommodate commercial airline traffic, it recorded over 127,000 aircraft movements in 2022, ranking as the 3rd busiest airport in the province. The airport features three asphalt runways and a floatplane dock, facilitating diverse aviation activities. Recently, a new terminal opened in January 2022, enhancing passenger services. Its strategic location, just 32 kilometres from Vancouver, makes it easily accessible for pilots and travellers seeking private air travel.

Location: Pitt Meadows, Canada
How To Reach: Via Lougheed Highway by car

4. Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)

 A clear view of the runway at Abbotsford International Airport under a bright sky.

Photo: YXXOps / Wikimedia Commons

Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is a regional airport in the Fraser Valley known for its affordable domestic and limited international flights. Primarily serving low-cost carriers like WestJet and Swoop attracts budget-conscious travellers seeking less crowded alternatives to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The airport features a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those wishing to avoid congestion. With a strategic location in a rapidly growing aerospace region, Abbotsford Airport is on track for a record-breaking year.

Location: Abbotsford, Canada
How To Reach: Car via Highway 1; some bus services

5. Langley Regional Airport (YNJ)

 The Langley Regional Airport terminal building with a clear sky in the background.

Photo: TobiasRehbein / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Langley Regional Airport (IATA: YLY, ICAO: CYNJ) is situated in Langley Township, British Columbia, primarily serving general aviation. It is a hub for flight schools and charter services, facilitating travel to smaller regional destinations. The airport, notable for its high volume of helicopter operations, features two runways and three helipads, making it one of Canada’s busiest general aviation airports. Opened in 1945 and purchased by the Township in 1967, it hosts over 55 aviation businesses and the Canadian Museum of Flight. Langley Regional Airport is easily accessible via Fraser Highway and Langley Bypass, playing a crucial role in the local aviation community.

Location: Langley
How To Reach: Fraser Highway or Langley Bypass by car

6. Victoria International Airport (YYJ)

An aerial view of an airplane landing on runway 27, one of the airports in Vancouver.

Photo: Johnnyw3 / Wikimedia Commons

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the primary gateway to Victoria and surrounding areas on Vancouver Island. It offers a blend of domestic and selects international flights, notably to the U.S. and Western Canada, making it a convenient choice for travellers. The airport is easily accessible via ferry from Vancouver, enhancing its appeal. Services include car rentals, shopping, dining options, and unique amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and bicycle storage facilities. Unlike larger airports, YYJ provides a more relaxed atmosphere, with art installations and proximity to the BC Aviation Museum, enriching the travel experience for approximately 2 million annual visitors.

Location: Victoria, Canada
How To Reach: By ferry from Vancouver or flights from YVR

7. Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre (CXH)

Seaplanes docked at Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre with the city skyline in the background.

Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons

The Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre is a prominent seaplane terminal located in downtown Vancouver, facilitating flights to Vancouver Island and other coastal destinations. Opened in 2011, it is a vital hub for regional flights and scenic tours, offering breathtaking views over the Pacific Northwest. The facility is unique as it features Canada’s only control tower dedicated to a water airport, standing at 142 meters tall worldwide. Travellers can enjoy quick access to flights while experiencing the thrill of seaplane travel right from the city’s heart, making it an unforgettable part of their journey.

Location: Downtown Vancouver, Coal Harbour
How To Reach: Walk, public transit, or taxi

Airports in Vancouver cater to travel needs, from large international airports like YVR to smaller regional and private aviation hubs. Whether you are flying internationally or looking for a quick trip to Vancouver Island, there is an airport to suit your needs. You can choose the best airport for your specific travel requirements by understanding the various options available. Let TripXL help you plan your trip and make your journey to and from Vancouver as smooth as possible.

Cover Photo: Guerinf / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the best choice for international flights, offering connections to destinations around the globe.
You can reach Victoria from Vancouver by ferry, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, or by a short flight from YVR.
Abbotsford International offers limited international flights, primarily to the U.S. and Mexico.
Yes, car rental services are available at Victoria International Airport, making it easy to explore Vancouver Island.
The Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre is easily accessible by foot from downtown Vancouver or by taxi, public transit, or bike.

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