Press Release - December 11, 2017

Travelling at Xmas? Don't forget to pack your Patience!

Arrive early, pack smart, brace for longer queues! That's the advice from Fred Bigelow, CEO at YQQ, as the busy rush around Christmas and the winter holidays kicks into high gear later this month. "Just knowing what to expect can help make your holiday trip less stressful," advises Bigelow. "Allowing yourself extra time and expecting a busy terminal will go a long way to getting you through the airport smoothly."

The expectation is that the YQQ parking lot will be close to capacity over the busiest travel days of December 20 - January 3. "There is a strong possibility parking will be an even bigger challenge this year", continues Bigelow. "Even though we have implemented several measures to create additional parking, we want people to be prepared for the extra time it may take."

Additional flights at YQQ, a direct response from the airlines to the increased market demand, have created the capacity situation. Both Air Canada and Pacific Coastal added flights to YVR this past year, while WestJet will begin service to YVR in mid-December. The WestJet direct service to Puerto Vallarta also adds to the winter traffic.

Earlier this year, CATSA implemented additional screening procedures that have prompted airlines to increase the time travellers are requested to be checked in. Travellers are advised to check with the individual airlines for that information. Information on clearing security, along with an up-to-date list of restricted items, can be found at the CATSA website (catsa-acsta.gc.ca). Information on parking at YQQ can be found on the YQQ website at www.comoxairport.ca.

YQQ wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

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Maxine Montgomery, Communications
Comox Valley Airport Commission
mmontgomery@comoxairport.com;
250-890-0829; ext 253