Vancouver International Airport

Overview

Texada Island Airport (CYGB) is a small regional airstrip serving the northern part of Texada Island in British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast region. It’s a vital transport link for residents and visitors, offering scheduled flights and private charters that connect the island to the mainland. While the airport is modest in size, it provides a peaceful, hassle-free travel experience with a few thoughtful amenities.

About Texada Island Airport (CYGB)

Texada Island lies in the Strait of Georgia, about 45 kilometres northwest of Vancouver. The airport is situated near the island’s northern tip, close to the community of Gillies Bay. It serves as a lifeline for the island’s year-round residents, as well as tourists drawn to the area’s hiking, fishing, and remote beaches. The airport handles mainly general aviation traffic — small single-engine and twin-engine aircraft, along with the occasional medevac flight. Scheduled air service is available through a small local carrier, providing flights to and from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and other regional points. With limited ferry connections (the main ferry terminal is at Blubber Bay, a 25-minute drive away), the airport offers a quicker alternative for those looking to reach the island or escape to the mainland.

Getting There and Ground Transport

Getting to and from the airport is straightforward, though options are limited. A reliable local taxi service operates on the island; the driver is known for being friendly and helpful. The taxi can take you to anywhere on Texada, including the ferry terminal at Blubber Bay or the main hub of Van Anda. There is no public bus service, but the island’s compact size means walking is feasible if you’re staying nearby.

For the more adventurous, the airport provides a unique amenity: courtesy bicycles. These bikes are available for free use, intended to help passengers reach Gillies Bay or other nearby destinations. However, they are generally in poor condition — think flat tyres, loose chains, and worn brakes. If you plan to use them, it’s wise to bring your own bike repair tools or at least a pump and patch kit. The airport also has a bike donation system: if you have an old bike you no longer need, you can leave it for others to use. To keep the programme sustainable, consider leaving a small donation in the box provided to help with upkeep.

If you prefer to walk, Gillies Bay is about a 20-minute walk from the airport. It has a grocery store and a couple of restaurants, making it a good spot to grab a meal or stock up on supplies. Walking is pleasant on a fine day, but be mindful of the limited lighting along the roadside after dark.

Airport Amenities

Despite its small size, the terminal offers a few key amenities. A public washroom is available and is kept remarkably clean — a pleasant surprise for a rural airport. The washroom is wheelchair-accessible, as is the car park and the entrance, making the airport easy to navigate for those with mobility challenges.

One unique feature is the camping area located adjacent to the airport. Travellers on a budget or those who enjoy the outdoors can pitch a tent here overnight. It’s a basic grassy patch with no hookups, but it’s quiet and offers a true island experience. There are no shower facilities, so come prepared.

A small shelter provides seating and shade while you wait. There is no vending machine, café, or shop inside the terminal, so bring any food or water you might need for your wait or journey. The airport does not have a water fountain, so carrying a water bottle is essential.

Runway and Arrival Experience

CYGB has a single asphalt runway oriented roughly east–west. It is well-maintained and generally smooth, offering a reassuring landing for passengers. The runway length is sufficient for the types of aircraft that routinely use it — mostly light aircraft and small regional turboprops.

One thing to be aware of is the approach, which can be bumpy in windy conditions. Texada Island is exposed to winds coming off the Strait of Georgia, and crosswinds are common. Pilots are skilled at handling these conditions, but passengers prone to motion sickness should take precautions. The airport is surrounded by forested logging land, and you may notice logging activity nearby during certain times of the year. This does not interfere with operations, but it adds to the rustic, working-landscape feel of the area.

There are no air traffic control services; pilots communicate on a common frequency as per uncontrolled airport procedures. This means departures and arrivals rely on see-and-avoid practices, which keeps the atmosphere calm and uncluttered.

Food and Drink Options

On-site dining is nonexistent, but you won’t go hungry. The closest food options are in Gillies Bay, a short walk or bike ride away. There you’ll find a small grocery store with basic supplies, a café that serves sandwiches and coffee, and a pub-style restaurant for a heartier meal. Hours can be limited, especially in the off-season, so it’s worth checking ahead. The taxi driver can also recommend places and may even offer to wait while you eat.

Given the lack of services at the airport, it’s strongly advised to pack a snack and a full water bottle before you arrive. If you’re flying out, grab takeaway from a restaurant in Gillies Bay and enjoy it at the picnic table near the terminal.

Staff and Service

The airport itself is unstaffed — there is no ticket counter or airline representative on site. Flights are typically booked online or by phone, and check-in occurs at the departure point (usually Vancouver or another hub). However, the friendly taxi driver often doubles as a de facto information source; they’re happy to answer questions about the island or help with luggage.

The overall atmosphere is one of trust and community. The bike donation programme, the camping area, and the lack of heavy security all contribute to a laid-back, welcoming vibe. You won’t find queues or stress here.

Pro Tips for Travelers

• Bring water: There is no water fountain or vending machine. A reusable water bottle is essential.
• Prepare for wind: If you’re prone to motion sickness, take a remedy before your flight. The approach can be bumpy.
• Repair tools for bikes: If you plan to use the courtesy bikes, a basic toolkit will make your ride much smoother.
• Leave a donation: The bike programme relies on user contributions. Drop a few dollars in the box if you use the bikes.
• Walk or bike to Gillies Bay for food: It’s a short, pleasant journey, and your only option for a meal nearby.
• Check flight schedules: Services are limited, and flights may not run every day. Confirm your booking in advance.
• Enjoy the peace: Texada Island Airport is one of those rare places where the journey itself is a pleasure. Take a deep breath of island air and savour the calm before your flight.

Final Thoughts

Texada Island Airport may lack the frills of a major hub, but it compensates with charm, cleanliness, and a genuine sense of place. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or heading home after a holiday, the airport provides a stress-free gateway to one of British Columbia’s most beautiful corners. With a bit of preparation — especially in terms of food and water — you’ll find that CYGB is a delightful start or end to your trip.