Burns Lake Airport

Overview

Burns Lake Airport (IATA: YPZ, ICAO: CYPZ) serves the village of Burns Lake and the broader Bulkley Valley region in west-central British Columbia, Canada. The airport is situated near the community of Telkwa, about 15 kilometres north of Burns Lake proper. It is a small regional airport primarily used by general aviation, charter flights, medevac, and seasonal passenger services. The airport is a lifeline for this remote area, providing essential air access for residents, businesses, and tourists who need to connect to larger centres like Prince George, Smithers, or beyond. Given its location in the rugged interior of BC, the airport handles a mix of light aircraft, turboprops, and occasional business jets. Though not a major commercial hub, it plays a vital role in the region's transportation network, especially during winter months when road conditions can be challenging.

Location & Access

Burns Lake Airport is located at 54°22′N 126°35′W, approximately 5 nautical miles north-northwest of Burns Lake. The airport sits on the west side of Highway 35, which connects the area to Highway 16 (the Yellowhead Highway) at Topley. To reach the airport from downtown Burns Lake, travel north on Highway 35 for about 15 minutes; the access road is well signed. There is no public transit to the airport, so passengers typically arrive by private vehicle, taxi, or shuttle. Taxis are available in Burns Lake, and car rentals can be arranged from the village. Parking is free and ample, with a small lot directly in front of the terminal building. For those flying in from other communities, the nearest major airport with scheduled commercial service is Smithers Airport (YYD), about 100 km to the west, or Prince George Airport (YXS), about 240 km to the east. Burns Lake Airport is often used as a stopover for flights heading deeper into the wilderness.

Facilities

The Burns Lake Airport terminal is compact but functional. The following amenities are confirmed on site:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park: Designated parking spaces close to the entrance are available for passengers with mobility needs.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: The terminal entrance is level and wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: An accessible washroom is located within the terminal.
• Toilet: A standard public washroom is also available.

Beyond these basics, the terminal offers a small waiting area with seating. There is no cafeteria, restaurant, or vending machine, so passengers should bring their own snacks and drinks, especially if expecting delays. There is no on-site hotel or lounge. For fuel, aviation gasoline (Avgas) and Jet A1 are available from the fixed-base operator (FBO) on request, but this service is geared towards pilots and aircraft operators. Passengers will not find retail shops, VIP lounges, or extensive services. The airport is primarily a point of departure and arrival; all amenities are minimal.

About the Region

Burns Lake is located in the heart of the Bulkley Valley, a scenic region known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes. The area is a gateway to outdoor recreation: fishing, hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are popular. Burns Lake itself is situated on the shores of Burns Lake (the lake), which is part of the Nechako River system. The village has a population of about 2,000, while the surrounding Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako covers a vast area of nearly 74,000 square kilometres.

The economy is driven by forestry, mining, and tourism. The region is rich in natural resources, with active logging and sawmills nearby. Lakes and rivers attract anglers targeting trout, pike, and salmon. In winter, the area becomes a hub for snowmobilers, with extensive trail networks. The nearby Tweedsmuir Provincial Park (one of BC's largest parks) offers wilderness camping and wildlife viewing. The village of Telkwa, closer to the airport, is a small community known for its heritage buildings and annual events.

Passengers flying into Burns Lake Airport are often travellers visiting friends and family, outdoor enthusiasts, or business travellers in the resource sector. The airport also handles medical evacuations and government flights. Given the remote nature of the region, reliable air service is critical, and the airport serves as a key link for both locals and visitors.

Practical Information

• Airport: Burns Lake Airport (YPZ / CYPZ)
• Location: Telkwa, British Columbia, Canada (approximately 15 km north of Burns Lake)
• Address: 1000 Airport Road, Telkwa, BC V0J 2X0
• Hours: The airport is not open every day; operations are limited. Peak hours are roughly 2 pm and 8 pm local time, suggesting that most flights arrive or depart around those times. The terminal building is accessible only during active flight times or by prior arrangement. Travelers should confirm with their airline or charter company for exact opening times.
• Contact: No official phone number or website is available for the airport. For enquiries, contact the Village of Burns Lake or the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako.
• Parking: Free parking is available on site.
• Transport: Taxis and private vehicles are the only options. Car rentals are available in Burns Lake (e.g., Enterprise, but book ahead). No bus or train serves the airport.

Travelers should plan accordingly: confirm flight schedules in advance, arrive early enough to check in, and bring anything you might need, as services are minimal. The airport is a straightforward, no-frills facility that serves its community well.