Cheap Flights, Hotels, Tours, Cruises and Holidays
Flight Centre
Your centre for 
travel.deals.insurance.tours.cruises.stays.holidays.flights.travel.
Get a quote
HelpManage booking
FlightsHolidaysCarsToursCruisesDealsMore

0877 40 50 00

Airports

Woman crossing a rope bridge

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Flights to Vancouver

About Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Vancouver Airport (YVR), officially Vancouver International Airport, is located on Sea Island, about 12km south of Downtown Vancouver, and is a major hub for Air Canada and WestJet. Passengers can connect with an extensive network of direct flights from Vancouver Airport to destinations across North America, Asia, Australia, Europe and the Middle East. Inside the airport, travellers can admire beautiful examples of indigenous art and enjoy a 114,000-litre exhibit installed by the Vancouver Aquarium, including over 20,000 marine plants and sea life (if the kids get bored on a long layover, see if you can find them all!). Thanks to the Canada Line SkyTrain service, it’s easy to go from Vancouver Airport to admiring the Steam Clock in Gastown, shopping along Robson Street or exploring the Vancouver Art Gallery in roughly half an hour. 

Airlines servicing Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Aeromexico

Check-in

Vancouver Airport operates out of two terminal buildings – the Main Terminal (divided into the Canada/Domestic, US and International terminals) and the South Terminal. Departing passengers have the option of using the airline check-in counters located at Departures Level 3 or the self-service check-in kiosks. Confirm your terminal and check-in times with your airline in advance, as each may have different requirements, and allow plenty of time at the airport before your flight. Keep in mind, it may be possible to check in for your flights online via your airline’s website or app, which can be an easy way to save time at the airport on the day of travel. 

Baggage

Baggage allowances for flights departing from Vancouver Airport vary by airline and ticket class, so it’s important to confirm what’s included with your flight booking to avoid any surprises at bag drop. For more specific information on baggage limits, such as the size, weight and number of bags included in your airfare, check with your airline or ask your Travel Expert for assistance before making your way to the airport. 

Facilities

A wide range of facilities are available at Vancouver Airport for your comfort and convenience, including: 

  • Assisted change rooms

    Transport and terminal transfers

    Wondering how to get from Vancouver Airport to Downtown Vancouver? There are plenty of ground transportation options available. 

    There are five different parking facilities available for travellers driving to Vancouver Airport. For short-term parking or quick drop-offs and pick-ups, the Parkade is located right next to the terminal and is one of the most convenient options. For more affordable long-term rates, look for the Value Long-Term parking instead. Premium valet services are also possible, and we’d recommend booking online to secure your preferred parking spot in advance. 


    Lounges

    Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

    Domestic Terminal, Gate C29

    Opening times vary in line with flight schedules

    • Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

      Domestic Terminal, Gate C29

      Opening times vary in line with flight schedules

    Frequently asked questions

    There are lots of different airlines flying into and out of Vancouver Airport (YVR), and major carriers include Air Canada, WestJet, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, British Airways and American Airlines. For a more complete list, see the page above.


    As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Vancouver Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights (including flights bound for the USA). This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 


    There are plenty of transport options available from Vancouver Airport to Downtown Vancouver (and vice versa), including airport shuttles, taxi and rideshare transfers, car rentals and public transport services like the Canada Line SkyTrain.  


    Yes, there are several lounges at Vancouver Airport, including a range of Air Canada lounges, Plaza Premium lounges, the Cathay Pacific Lounge and SkyTeam Lounge. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the lounges at Vancouver Airport. 


    There are four dedicated quiet spaces at Vancouver Airport. Here you’ll find softer lighting, quieter speakers and comfy seats – perfect for those wanting to escape the sensory overload of the main terminal! If you’re looking for showers or somewhere to relax while you wait for your flight, check the facilities, opening times and whether you’re able to access any of the airport lounges. Ready to book accommodation for your Canada trip? Ask your Travel Expert to help you find the perfect airport hotel or city stay today. 


    You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Vancouver booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.

    Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, access to competitions, exclusive deals and access to the hottest holiday savings around. 


    Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Vancouver Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.


    Vancouver Airport operates out of two terminal buildings – the Main Terminal (divided into the Canada/Domestic, US and International terminals) and the South Terminal. Check your flight booking information or boarding pass to confirm your departure or arrival terminal. A free shuttle service runs frequently between the Main Terminal and the South Terminal for passengers needing to transfer between them. 


    Yes, short-term and long-term parking is available at Vancouver Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on facilities and the current rates. We’d recommend booking online to secure your preferred parking spot in advance.


    Dedicated nursery rooms, equipped with changing tables, play areas and cribs, are available before and after security at Vancouver Airport. Nursing pods can also be found throughout the airport, as well as three kids’ play areas where the little ones can burn off some energy before boarding. 


    Keen to do a little retail therapy at Vancouver Airport? There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including Burberry, Cartier, Discover BC and the Vancouver Aquarium, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check the Vancouver Airport terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores with their location and opening hours. 


    While last-minute sale fares to and from Vancouver Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially when booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds. 


    Ready to takeoff?

    Explore our handy knowledge base articles to make your trip preparation smooth and stress-free.

    Planning your trip

    Ready to book your flight?

    Book online, in-store, over the phone, or via the app. Booking with Flight Centre is easier than ever. With hundreds of trusted airline partners worldwide, booking with us means you'll get a deal that fits your needs.

    Search flights

    Get a quote

    You're the centre of our centre

    When you book with us, you know you're booking with the best in the business