The seasonal service will be offered between May and October
WestJet will operate new seasonal flights between Campbell River (YBL) and Calgary (YYC) starting May 15. The seasonal service will be offered between May and October and will operate four days a week, except for June 22 to Sept. 6, when flights will operate daily.
Campbell River Mayor Kermit Dahl called WestJet’s announcement on Monday a significant milestone for the city-owned airport.
“Campbell River continues to grow as a destination, and transportation investments such as this open up exciting new travel options and show confidence in the community and the opportunities here,” Dahl said in a statement.
WestJet said flights will depart from Calgary at 11:15 a.m. local time and arrive in Campbell River at 12:25 p.m. Flights will depart from Campbell River at 1 p.m. and arrive in Calgary at 4 p.m.
The Campbell River Airport is considered a regional gateway to northern Vancouver Island and the Discovery Islands, serving a population of about 60,000. It has a 6,500-foot runway that accommodates both commercial and private aircraft, and currently offers daily direct flights to Vancouver.
Airport manager Dennis Brodie said the Calgary flights will serve leisure travellers, resource-sector workers and business travellers.
WestJet is also adding non-stop seasonal service between Terrace, B.C. (YXT) and Edmonton (YEG), strengthening domestic connectivity within Western Canada.
“We’re thrilled to welcome WestJet to Campbell River to deliver a seasonal service from Calgary to Campbell River in 2026. This new route to a major travel hub is a significant milestone in growing the City of Campbell River Airport (YBL) and strengthening air service to and from Campbell River. It offers enhanced connectivity to other regions for residents, businesses and visitors, which also supports the community’s economy, growth and livability. Campbell River continues to grow as a destination, and transportation investments such as this open up exciting new travel options and show confidence in the community and the opportunities here.” Kermit Dahl, Mayor of Campbell River
“The City of Campbell River Airport (YBL) has served Campbell River and the surrounding region for more than 60 years. This seasonal service from WestJet delivers new, local options for leisure travellers, resource-sector workers and other business travellers on their way to destinations across North America and beyond. We also know that this area is highly attractive to both domestic and international visitors, and we’re pleased to offer more options to bring them directly to Campbell River and North Island. Wherever your trip’s taking you, thanks for making the Campbell River Airport part of the journey.” Dennis Brodie, Campbell River Airport Manager
“The Northwest Regional Airport, Terrace-Kitimat (YXT), is pleased to welcome WestJet’s announcement of a new direct route between Terrace and Edmonton, launching in Summer 2026. This new service enhances travel options for Northern BC residents and businesses, and further positions YXT as a key transportation hub in the region. This added connectivity brings greater flexibility for travellers and supports economic growth by opening access to Alberta’s capital. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with WestJet as we expand air access and serve the evolving needs of our communities.” Carman Hendry, YXT Airport General Manager
(Source: Times Colonist, Darron Kloster with files from Westjet.com. Photo/WestJet)