Trail shuttle service to improve reliability for the West Kootenays during winter

Pacific Coastal Airlines is pleased to announce the launch of its Trail Shuttle Service, a new initiative designed to support passengers travelling between the West Kootenays and Vancouver during the winter months. Operational since January 27, 2025, this service offers reliable ground transportation between Trail Airport (YZZ) and Penticton Airport (YYF) during inclement weather, minimizing travel disruptions for passengers in the region, offering the ability to connect onto flights at the Penticton Airport.

“The Trail Shuttle Service demonstrates Pacific Coastal Airlines dedication to providing consistent and reliable travel options for the West Kootenay communities,” said Johnathan Richardson, VP of Commercial. “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to further improve reliability for passengers, even when weather challenges arise.”

How the Trail Shuttle Works

From October 1 to March 31 annually, Pacific Coastal Airlines’ operational team monitors weather forecasts daily. If inclement weather is expected in the Trail area, Pacific Coastal Airlines will designate a “Trail Shuttle Day”, offering a combined flight service between Vancouver and Penticton, along with a ground shuttle between Penticton and Trail. On a Trail Shuttle Day, passengers will be notified by 9:30 a.m. about their reaccommodation options. The transportation timeline is as follows:

Passengers Departing from Trail Airport
Passengers originating from Trail will be required to be present at the Trail Airport by 11:15 a.m. as the Trail Shuttle will depart at 12:00 p.m. The estimated arrival time of the shuttle at the Penticton Airport is 4:30 p.m. when passengers will board a flight to Vancouver.

Passengers Departing from Vancouver
Airport Passengers originating from Vancouver, or an earlier connecting point (i.e. Victoria), will be accommodated on flights arriving at the Penticton Airport. The Trail Shuttle will depart from Penticton Airport at 5:00 p.m. and the estimated arrival time of the shuttle at the Trail Airport is 9:30 p.m.

Benefits for the West Kootenays

The Trail Shuttle Service is a significant step in strengthening connectivity for the West Kootenays. By offering a practical solution to mitigate weather-related travel disruptions, this service supports the region’s residents, businesses, and tourism. It reflects Pacific Coastal Airlines’ commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability.

For additional details about the Trail Shuttle Service, including frequently asked questions, visit: www.pacificcoastal.com/trail-shuttle 

About Pacific Coastal Airlines
Pacific Coastal Airlines is a privately-owned British Columbia-based regional airline operating from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal (YVR) that flies to 18 airports in British Columbia.

Media contact:
Pacific Coastal Airlines, Corporate Communications
corpcom@pacificcoastal.com