Nanaimo Airport Looking to Future

1 May 2021

Vaccination programs are progressing in B.C. and across Canada. As they do, Nanaimo Airport is prepared to welcome passengers back once they are ready to travel in a safety-first environment.

The airport remains cautiously optimistic that travel restrictions will be relaxed this summer and fall. It also remains committed to safety as its top priority. The airport and its airline partners have extensive safety measures in place.

Toronto, Edmonton Flights Planned this Summer

Air Canada and WestJet have proposed summer schedules that include a new route and the return of Toronto seasonal service. Existing routes get additional flights.

Here are the proposed options:

  • Expanded flight options to Vancouver by both airlines
  • Expanded flight options to Calgary by both airlines
  • The resumption of Air Canada Rouge flights weekly between Nanaimo and Toronto’s Pearson Airport. They start on July 3. Flights are planned for Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 5, 2021. Travellers will fly aboard an Airbus 220. It’s one of the most efficient and low-noise planes in its class. Its new to the Nanaimo route and will be set up with a 136-seat configuration.
  • New flight to Edmonton by WestJet, starting on June 25. Two flights are planned per week, on Fridays and Saturdays.

The expanded schedule upholds Nanaimo Airport’s role as the region’s “gateway to the world.” Travellers will be able to connect to Canada’s major airport hubs using the airport as home base.

Comprehensive Safety Measures

Nanaimo Airport’s safety protocols include a touchless parking app and self baggage tagging at check-in. These are in addition to mandatory masks, physical distancing, and enhanced cleaning and sanitization.

Air Canada and WestJet safety measures include defogging planes with hospital-grade disinfectant and screening passengers before boarding. Airplane HEPA filters can remove more than 99 per cent of bacteria and viruses. They circulate new air into the cabin 20 to 30 times per hour.

“We’re ready to welcome passengers back once they feel safe to travel again,” says Dave Devana, President and CEO of Nanaimo Airport.