Travelers flying from the US to Vancouver, BC Canada will arrive at Vancouver International Airport. The airport is the busiest in Western Canada and has won the Skytrax award for “Best Airport in North America” two years in a row, 2010 and 2011. Passengers arriving in Vancouver from the US for the first time are often struck by the beautiful scenery as they approach the airport and are further impressed by the museum-quality sculptures and artwork throughout the airport.
The airport is well designed for international arrivals with signs clearly directing passengers through Baggage Claim and Canada Customs Border Services Agency. There is a Customer Service Representative stationed here to assist you with any questions you may have regarding customs and immigration procedures.
US airlines flying to Vancouver
Several major US airlines fly into Vancouver International Airport. This includes American Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways, and Delta Air Lines. Over fifty commercial airlines serve the airport, making it one of the most frequently scheduled stops in Canada among US airlines.
On the west coast of the US, Alaska Airlines and its sister airline, Horizon Air, have an extensive network of flights connecting to Vancouver. Most Alaska/Horizon flights connect in Los Angeles, California (LAX); Portland, Oregon (PDX); or Seattle, Wash. (MAR).
A regional carrier, Skywest Airlines, operates regional flights to Vancouver for United Airlines and Delta. For United regional flights, they operate under the United Express brand. If you are a member of their frequent flyer program “Mileage Plus” or of the Star Alliance airline alliance, you earn miles with United Express flights.
For Delta’s regional flights, Skywest operates under the name Delta Connection. Flights with Skywest and Delta Connection qualify for Delta’s “SkyMiles” frequent flyer program and “SkyTeam” alliance.
US Airways flights connect most frequently through Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Phoenix, Arizona. This is the main airport hub for US Airways on the west coast.
In Canada, WestJet is known as Canada’s leading discount airline. In 2011, WestJet and American Airlines announced codeshare agreements. It is now possible to book flights with each airline using the other airline’s ticket code. This can be convenient for travelers with frequent flyer miles with either airline.
Vancouver International Airport
The airport is located in Richmond BC on Sea Island, which is 8 miles from downtown Vancouver. The IATA airport code for the airport is YVR. Over 500 taxis service the airport in addition to limousine and sedan service. Taxis are located immediately after exiting the terminal in a covered area.
Car rentals are located in the parking lot at ground level. Companies with service at the airport include; Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and National.
There is excellent public transportation, including the “Canada Line” rapid transit rail link. This is the fastest way to get to the city center.
There are numerous airport hotels located within a few miles of the airport. Many of the hotels offer free shuttle bus. Some do not operate 24 hours a day, so please confirm with your hotel the schedule of the shuttle service and if you need to confirm the pickup with the hotel upon arrival.