The Comox Valley Airport is adapting to the rapid changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and will remain open for necessary passenger travel, medical transport flights or to facilitate cargo or humanitarian efforts.
Beginning April 1, the terminal building will be open 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Hours of operation will be adapted to coincide with changes to flight schedules, ensuring terminal access is available a minimum of two hours prior to scheduled departures.
WestJet continues to provide service between Comox and Calgary, with two-times daily service presently scheduled until May 4. Air Canada and Pacific Coastal Airlines have temporarily suspended service to YQQ, to better focus efforts on essential services and cargo.
Budget, National, and Enterprise Rental Car services are operating with reduced hours. Contact them directly to confirm hours of operation (contact information is available via https://www.comoxairport.com/car-rentals).
On The Fly Café and Mid Island Gifts have temporarily suspended their services; however, vending machines are available for hot and cold drinks, and snacks.
As of March 30, Transport Canada’s Interim Order to Prevent Certain Persons from Boarding Flights in Canada due to COVID-19 is in effect. Further information can be found here: https://www.tc.gc.ca/en/initiatives/covid-19-measures-updates-guidance-tc.html
The public is asked to observe social distancing measures within the terminal and to observe all public health directives regarding the mandatory 14-day isolation period upon return from any destination.
Passengers, or those helping someone who requires mobility assistance, should be the only ones to enter the terminal during pick up and drop off. Individuals who greet, pick up, and/or drive returning passengers must observe the same isolation protocols as the returning passenger.
Airport operations will continue to follow the CVAC Pandemic Operating Plan as well as directives from Transport Canada and the public health agencies. Plexiglass screens have been installed at check-in counters to protect airline staff, and the public, where social distancing is not viable.
Expanded cleaning schedules are in effect in order to ensure all touchpoints within and outside the terminal are kept clean. Luggage carts, parking meters, and ticket kiosks are also receiving regular wipe downs.
Hand sanitizing stations and public washrooms are well equipped and cleaned regularly. Additional signage regarding handwashing and other best practices around hygiene have been posted to ensure that these procedures are understood.
For further updates on how the Comox Valley Airport is addressing the challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit www.comoxairport.com or the airport’s social media outlets.
