Texada Gillies Bay Airport Overview
Texada Gillies Bay Airport is a small regional airport located on Texada Island in British Columbia, Canada. The airport is operated by the Powell River Regional District and serves as an important transportation hub for residents and visitors of the island.
The airport features a single runway that is approximately 3,900 feet long and can accommodate small to mid-sized aircraft. It also has a terminal building that includes a waiting area, check-in counters, and a small cafe. The airport is equipped with modern navigation and communication equipment, making it safe and efficient for pilots to operate at all times.
Texada Gillies Bay Airport offers scheduled flights to Vancouver International Airport and other locations in British Columbia. The airport is also available for general aviation and private charters. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful Texada Island, which offers visitors a range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
The airport has a dedicated team of professionals who work hard to ensure that passengers have a seamless travel experience. They offer a range of services such as baggage handling, ground transportation, and assistance for passengers with special needs. The airport is also committed to ensuring the safety of all passengers and visitors, and it adheres to strict security protocols at all times.
Overall, Texada Gillies Bay Airport is an important transportation hub for Texada Island and the surrounding region. With its modern facilities and commitment to safety and customer service, it provides passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
Terminals at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
Texada Gillies Bay Airport is a small regional airport located on the eastern coast of Texada Island, British Columbia, Canada. The airport has one main terminal building that houses various facilities for passengers, including check-in counters, security screening, and baggage claim. The terminal is designed to provide passengers with a comfortable and welcoming experience during their travels.
The terminal building at Texada Gillies Bay Airport features a modern and spacious design, offering ample space for passengers to locate information and move around easily. The airport has a central concourse area where passengers can relax while waiting for their flights. Passengers can also enjoy the convenience of vending machines, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building.
Texada Gillies Bay Airport has a single gate that serves both arriving and departing flights. The gate area is paneled with large glass windows, providing an excellent view of the airfield. The gate is equipped with boarding bridges to ensure that passengers can board or disembark their flights comfortably, even during harsh weather conditions.
The airport’s terminal building is fully accessible, with facilities designed to cater to the needs of passengers with disabilities. There are wheelchair ramps and elevators to assist passengers who may have difficulty climbing stairs. Passengers with hearing difficulties also have access to visual aids, including announcement boards and digital displays.
Overall, Texada Gillies Bay Airport’s terminal building provides a seamless travel experience for passengers. It is clean, modern, and well-equipped to handle the passenger traffic in the airport. Passengers can expect to have a comfortable and hassle-free time at the airport prior to their flights.
Airlines and Destinations
The Texada Gillies Bay Airport is a small airport located in British Columbia, Canada. Despite its size, it offers flights from several airlines that operate both domestic and international routes.
The airlines that provide services at the airport include Pacific Coastal Airlines, KD Air, and Orca Airways.
Pacific Coastal Airlines operates flights to Vancouver, Victoria, Cranbrook, and Kelowna within Canada. The airline also offers international flights to Seattle, Washington.
KD Air offers daily flights to Vancouver and Victoria, as well as charter services to other destinations in British Columbia and Alberta.
Orca Airways provides flights to Vancouver, Qualicum Beach, Tofino, and other destinations in Western Canada.
It’s worth noting that flight schedules and destinations may change according to seasonal changes and other external factors. Therefore, it’s best to check with the airline or the airport for the latest information before booking your flight.
Transportation Options at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
Texada Gillies Bay Airport is a small regional airport located in Powell River, British Columbia. Despite its size, there are several transportation options available for passengers arriving or departing from the airport.
One of the most convenient options is to rent a car from one of the rental agencies located at the airport. This allows passengers to have their own vehicle to explore the area or travel to nearby destinations. The rental agencies at Texada Gillies Bay Airport include Budget Car Rental and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
For those who prefer not to drive, there is a shuttle service available for passengers. The shuttle service is operated by Sunshine Coast Shuttle and provides transportation to and from the airport. Passengers can book a seat on the shuttle in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
In addition to the shuttle service, there is also a shuttle bus that operates between Texada Island and Vancouver Island. The shuttle bus is operated by BC Transit and runs several times a day, allowing passengers to easily travel between the two islands.
For travelers who prefer to use public transportation, there are train lines available near the airport. The closest train station is located in Courtenay, which is approximately 82 kilometers from the airport. From there, passengers can take the Island Corridor Foundation train line to other destinations on Vancouver Island.
Overall, Texada Gillies Bay Airport offers a variety of transportation options for passengers. Whether traveling by car, shuttle, shuttle bus, or train, passengers can easily reach their intended destination.
Parking
Texada Gillies Bay Airport offers ample parking options for travelers with vehicles. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking lots that are conveniently located near the terminal building.
For short-term parking, rates are $2 for the first hour and $1 for each additional hour, with a daily maximum of $10. Long-term parking rates are $5 per day, with a weekly maximum of $35. Payment can be made with cash or credit card at the parking kiosk.
The parking lots are well-lit and patrolled regularly by airport security, ensuring the safety of parked vehicles. Handicapped parking spaces are also available in close proximity to the terminal building.
Additional parking services such as valet parking or covered parking are not currently offered at Texada Gillies Bay Airport. However, the airport’s convenient location and affordable rates make it a great option for travelers looking for a hassle-free parking experience during their trip.
Check-In Procedures at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
Texada Gillies Bay Airport offers multiple check-in methods to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for all passengers. The most convenient method is online check-in, which can be done up to 24 hours prior to departure. This allows passengers to bypass the check-in counter entirely and proceed directly to security upon arrival at the airport.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, staffed check-in counters are available for assistance with baggage drop-off and seat assignments. Passengers can also utilize self-service kiosks located in the terminal for a quick and efficient check-in process.
Regardless of the chosen method, it is important for passengers to arrive at the airport with ample time before their flight. Texada Gillies Bay Airport recommends arriving at least 90 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and two hours for international flights.
During the check-in process, passengers will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, as well as any necessary travel documents (such as a passport for international travel). They will also need to check their baggage and retrieve their boarding pass.
Once checked in, passengers can proceed through security and make their way to their gate for departure. With multiple check-in options available, Texada Gillies Bay Airport strives to make the beginning of every journey as smooth and seamless as possible for all passengers.
Security Measures at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
Texada Gillies Bay Airport takes security seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
All passengers are required to pass through security screening before entering the departure area.
Make sure to remove all items from your pockets and place them in your carry-on bag or personal item to avoid setting off the metal detectors.
Laptops, tablets, and liquids over 100mL must also be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin for screening.
It is recommended that you arrive early to allow enough time for the security screening process and to avoid missing your flight.
Customs and Immigration Process at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
When arriving at Texada Gillies Bay Airport from an international destination, passengers are required to go through customs and immigration.
They will be directed to a designated area where they will present their passport and other required documentation to a border services officer.
After clearing customs, baggage can be picked up and passengers can exit the airport.
For departing passengers, they will need to check in for their flight at the airline counter before proceeding through security screening.
Once through security, passengers will need to present their passport and boarding pass to a border services officer before boarding their flight.
It is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to allow for these processes and avoid any delays or missed flights.
Amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminal.
- Passengers can find comfortable seating areas and charging stations to recharge their electronic devices.
- The airport also has a vending machine for snacks and drinks.
- Restrooms are located near the waiting area.
- There are payphones for passengers who need to make calls.
Accessibility Services
Texada Gillies Bay Airport is committed to providing facilities and services that are accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport has designated parking spaces, wheelchair ramps, and accessible washrooms conveniently located throughout the terminal building.
Passengers requiring mobility assistance can request a wheelchair or other assistance from the airline they are flying with. The airport also has trained staff members available to provide additional assistance if needed.
Texada Gillies Bay Airport strives to ensure that all passengers have a safe and comfortable travel experience, regardless of their mobility needs.
Connecting Flights at Texada Gillies Bay Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Texada Gillies Bay Airport, it’s important to give yourself enough time between flights. The airport is relatively small, so it’s possible to navigate quickly, but delays can occur.
Make sure to check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport, and keep an eye on any potential delays or cancellations. When you arrive at the airport, follow signs to the connecting flight area and be prepared to go through security again.
If you have a tight connection, consider packing light and avoiding checked baggage. This can save time and reduce the risk of lost luggage. Finally, be sure to listen for announcements and follow any instructions from airport staff to ensure a smooth connection.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After arriving at Texada Gillies Bay Airport, passengers can proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their checked baggage. Baggage carousels are clearly marked with flight information.
If a passenger’s baggage is lost or damaged, they should report it immediately to the airline representative at the airport. The representative will provide a report number and instructions on how to track the status of the lost or damaged baggage.
Passengers should also ensure that they have all of their carry-on items before leaving the airport. If an item has been left behind, passengers can inquire about lost property at the airport information desk or contact the airline directly.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Texada Gillies Bay Airport, passengers and staff can immediately contact the airport administration for assistance. The administration office is located nearby the terminal building and is equipped to handle any emergency situation.
The airport is also equipped with fire-fighting equipment and personnel who are trained to respond to any incident quickly and efficiently. Medical facilities are available at the Texada Island Health Centre, which is located about 20 minutes away from the airport by car. In the event of a medical emergency, airport staff can assist in arranging transportation to the health centre.
Hotel Accommodations near Texada Gillies Bay Airport
There are several hotel accommodations available within close proximity to Texada Gillies Bay Airport.
Some of the hotels nearby include Lund Resort at Klah ah men, The Old Courthouse Inn, Desolation Resort, Beach Gardens Resort and Marina, and Sunshine Lodge Inn.
Lund Resort is located approximately 28 km from the airport while The Old Courthouse Inn is some 29.5 km away.
Desolation Resort and Beach Gardens Resort and Marina can both be found around 30 km from the airport.
Sunshine Lodge Inn is the closest, situated just 1.5 km away from Texada Gillies Bay Airport.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Texada Gillies Bay Airport
Here are some insider tips to help make your experience at Texada Gillies Bay Airport a breeze.
First, be sure to arrive early to allow for ample time to check in and go through security.
Next, pack light and only bring what you need, as the airport has limited space and storage.
It’s also a good idea to bring some snacks and water with you, as there are limited options for food and drinks.
Finally, be sure to take advantage of the stunning views from the airport’s observation area before you depart.
Contact Information
- Administration Office: 604-485-8256
- Airport Manager: 604-414-5021
- Fuel Services: 604-483-3662
- Weather Station: 604-485-8556
- Nav Canada Flight Service Station: 1-866-WXBRIEF (1-866-992-7433)
- Customs and Immigration: 1-888-226-7277
Airports Near Texada Gillies Bay Airport
While Texada Gillies Bay Airport may be the primary airport serving the island, there are several other airports within a reasonable distance. These include:
- Powell River Airport (YPW) – approximately 30 km away
- Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) – approximately 70 km away
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR) – approximately 165 km away
Transportation options to reach these airports include rental car, taxi, and shuttle services. Some hotels may also offer airport transportation.