By Grant Warkentin
The first direct Harbour Air flight to Campbell River arrived from Vancouver this morning, signalling the start of more options for travellers and tourists.
At around 11:45 am, Harbour Air’s red and white Canada-themed DH-3 Single Otter seaplane taxied into the Campbell River estuary and tied up at the Vancouver Island Air dock on the Tyee Spit. After passengers disembarked, representatives from the city, Wei Wai Kum, and We Wai Kai First Nations held a quick ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally mark the start of the new route.
“This new connection makes it easier than ever for people to travel between Campbell River and downtown Vancouver, benefitting residents, businesses and visitors alike,” said Mayor Kermit Dahl. “It also opens the door to one of Canada’s largest tourism and business markets, creating new opportunities for our community and supporting long-term economic growth.”
Wei Wai Kum Chief Councillor Chris Roberts said the new connection is good for the local economy, and will make it easier for visitors to access Indigenous-led tourism opportunities, including whale and bear-watching excursions. He said local nations have long seen the economic value of tourism for the region, and the new connection will build on that base.
Roberts pointed out the Tyee Spit was first known as ʔuxstalis (ook-stah-lees) and that his people were historically displaced from the site more than a century ago. He said it was good to have been invited to participate in ceremonies welcoming the connection’s first formal flight.
Harbour Air’s Chief Commercial Officer Chris Fordyce said the route is Harbour Air’s most northerly destination.
“This new route opens the door to another remarkable part of the region while providing fast, convenient travel for both visitors and businesses,” he said in a statement. “By bringing Campbell River and Vancouver within an hour of each other, we’re making it easier than ever to experience, invest in, and stay connected to this vibrant coastal community.”
Rose Klukas, Campbell River’s director of economic development and Indigenous relations, said the connection is good for tourism, and for business.
“Visitors to Campbell River will be warmly welcomed to experience unforgettable wildlife, ocean adventures, and rich cultural experiences,” she said. “This new connection makes it easier than ever to explore central and north Vancouver Island, inviting more people to discover our community while creating new opportunities for local businesses and supporting sustainable growth across the region.”
Flights are daily – the plane arrives first from Vancouver, and then departs Campbell River for a return trip. Times vary depending on the day. Check Harbour Air’s booking website for details.
The route will provide daily services until September 30.
Featured image: Markella Gionet (left) and Erin Neely from the city’s economic development office hold the ribbon for the official ceremony to welcome Harbour Air’s daily connections between Campbell River and Vancouver. Mayor Kermit Dahl wielded the ceremonial scissors, assisted by Wei Wai Kum and We Wai Kai representatives Chris Roberts, Jason Wilson, and Andrew Puglas. Photo by Grant Warkentin
VIDEO: Excerpts from the landing, and ribbon-cutting.
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