Accessing Tofino’s renowned Pacific Ocean storm season just got easier with Harbour Air’s new flight schedule connecting Metro Vancouver to the wild west coast of Vancouver Island.
Tofino's famous winter storm season runs from October to March with the most intense storms typically occurring between December and February. Visitors flock to the area to witness the powerful Pacific storms, which feature large waves, high winds, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane operator, launched its new wheeled-flight schedule (i.e. these planes have wheels and can land on terra firma) on a bluebird day on 27OCT, extending year-round service from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal (YVR) to Tofino (YAZ) through a combination of floatplanes and wheeled aircraft.
This expansion extends Harbour Air’s reach across Vancouver Island beyond seasonal seaplane routes. The 19-passenger Twin Otter aircraft will operate the route four days a week, delivering more convenient departure times for travellers, as well as improved weather resilience.
“British Columbians and the tourism industry deserve easier, more dependable ways to travel across our beautiful coast year-round,” said Chris Fordyce, Chief Commercial Officer, Harbour Air.
“For more than 40 years, we've been connecting people as a key link between the city and our fantastic coast,” Fordyce tells Open Jaw. “Today’s service expansion strengthens regional connectivity, supports tourism and makes it simpler for customers to spend more time where they want to be. Our focus is on building a future where regional air travel is more reliable, accessible and an integral part of exploring British Columbia.”
The new service opens more convenient ways for people to stay connected across the South Coast. Travellers can now more easily access all that Tofino has to offer, including enjoying the natural coastal beauty, a weekend escape to sample delicious West Coast cuisine, visiting family in the area or making a quick business trip.
The service is a faster and more reliable alternative to winter road and ferry travel and makes it easier for customers to spend more time in Tofino or Vancouver, rather than on route to their destination.
Support for the expanded service is shared across the province’s tourism sector. “Reliable, year-round air access to Tofino strengthens B.C.’s visitor economy by supporting local businesses and jobs,” said Richard Porges, CEO, Destination British Columbia.
“Storm watching is a uniquely coastal experience that draws visitors from around the world. This new service makes it easier for people to connect with the natural beauty, culture and communities of B.C.’s West Coast, all year long."
Dan Law, Mayor, District of Tofino, echoed this enthusiasm to Open Jaw: “We welcome Harbour Air’s expanded service, which enhances year-round access to our community for residents and visitors. This investment supports Tofino’s continued growth as a destination beyond the peak summer season, helping visitors experience the beauty and vibrancy of our region year-round.”
In addition, Vancouver (YVR) to Victoria (YYJ) wheeled service will return this winter and complement Harbour Air’s downtown harbour-to-harbour seaplane network. Flights will operate from YVR to YYJ, with extended winter travel times and added baggage allowance.
Flights between Vancouver and Victoria operate up to 19 times daily, with one-way fares starting at $65. The new Vancouver to Tofino route offers four weekly departures on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with one-way fares starting at $139.
The 30-minute trip to Victoria and 45-minute trip to Tofino give customers a fast, reliable alternative to ferries, long drives and unpredictable winter road conditions. Tofino and Ucluelet residents can also access an exclusive 20 percent discount with valid ID. Customers can view full schedules and book flights at: https://www.harbourair.com/
About Harbour Air
Harbour Air is North America’s largest seaplane airline, renowned for its safety, service, and innovation. Operating up to 200 daily flights to 15 destinations — including Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Comox, Tofino, Nanaimo, and Seattle — Harbour Air combines spectacular views with a commitment to sustainability. The airline made history with the world’s first all-electric commercial flight and remains dedicated to greener aviation. More details at harbourair.com.
