Many pilots are familiar with the larger Canadian airports like YYZ, YUL and YVR. These airports are busy, bustling with aircraft, and air traffic controllers are busy monitoring aircraft. While these airports can be exciting for pilots to land at, they are generally also easily accessible by car or public transportation. There are, however, many smaller airports all over Canada that have an appeal of their own. Some of these hidden gems may be tucked away in quiet corners of Canada, while others may be closer than you think, eager to accept visitors!

Here are 4 smaller airports that you can visit in your Pilatus PC-12 while exploring Canada!

#1. Jasper, Alberta – CYJA

Photo Credit: Reddit

Jasper Airport is located in Jasper, the gateway to Jasper National Park – a place renowned for its natural beauty. No matter the season, you will enjoy the cultural experience of Jasper. Whether it’s skiing, hiking, biking or your first visit to the Rockies – Jasper is for families with kids, couples on a romantic getaway and business travellers too.

Next time you’re flying to Jasper in your PC-12, make sure to land at YJA. Your experience will be a truly memorable one.

#2. Chilko Lake, British Columbia – CAG3

Photo Credit: Tsylos Park Lodge YouTube

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of cities and towns, Chilko Lake is ideal. This small and beautiful community is situated amidst the trellis-covered hills and rambling old growth trees. Hiking alongside the lake and enjoying the primeval beauty of the area is a favourite pastime for anyone looking for a weekend getaway. What makes Chilko Lake unique is that you can escape the city and fly directly into CAG3 on your PC-12, saving you 10 hours on the road!

#3. Saint Lazare, Quebec – CST3

Photo Credit: Jean-Pierre Bonin

Located in the heart of Saint Lazare, QC, just outside the Montreal-YUL control zone, you’ll find Montreal/St-Lazare Airport. With a reputation as one of the friendliest small airports around, you will be warmly welcomed by Cooper Aviation and fellow aviators! The airport is home to the Saint Lazare Flying Club and when permitted, the airport hosts fun fly-in breakfasts throughout the summer for any aviation enthusiast to join!

Born and raised in Saint Lazare, our Marketing Coordinator, Jenna Foster, grew up visiting the fly-in breakfasts for Father’s Day and vividly remembers the wonderful memories from those days at the airport!

#4. Goderich, Ontario – CYGD

Photo Credit: City of Goderich

Are you looking for a small town with beautiful skies and friendly people? Well, you found it! Goderich is the perfect place for a family getaway or business trip. With an old-fashioned, active, downtown core with local shops and eateries, this small town has everything a traveller could possibly need.

Located 30 minutes outside of Toronto, it’s easy to reach when flying your Pilatus PC-12. Whether you’re driving through the beautiful Ontario countryside on Highway 13 or arriving in your PC-12, you’re sure to feel the distinct Goderich spirit!