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Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is a regional gateway on Vancouver Island, located in Cassidy about 18 km south of downtown Nanaimo. Originally developed as a World War II military airfield, it now handles scheduled regional flights and general aviation, serving as a convenient alternative to Victoria for central island travellers. Its single terminal and compact layout make arrivals and departures quick and easy.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know that YCD's small terminal can process passengers quickly, but security and check-in still close before departure—arrive at least 60–90 minutes early for scheduled flights, and confirm whether your flight departs from the main terminal or a remote stand.
🚖 Getting There
By car, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) south from Nanaimo to the Cassidy/Nanaimo Airport exit and follow signs to the terminal; the drive takes about 20–25 minutes. Taxis and rideshares serve the airport but may require pre-booking, especially early or late. If arriving via BC Ferries, Duke Point terminal is roughly 15–20 minutes away, while Departure Bay is about 30–35 minutes north.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines and destinations serve Nanaimo Airport?
A: Scheduled service is provided by regional carriers, typically with flights to Vancouver and Calgary; routes can vary seasonally, so check current schedules.
Q: How far is the airport from downtown Nanaimo?
A: It is about 18 km (11 miles) south of downtown Nanaimo, usually a 20- to 25-minute drive depending on traffic.
Q: Is there public transit to the airport?
A: Public bus service is limited; RDN Transit has routes connecting nearby areas, but schedules are infrequent, so taxis, rideshares, or rental cars are often more practical.
Q: Are car rentals and parking available?
A: Yes, the airport has short- and long-term parking and on-site rental car counters from major brands; booking ahead is recommended during peak periods.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash