Courtenay Airpark Association Airpark News

Congratulations Darren! Business of the Year

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 01:02:23 GMT

Airpark member Darren Adam is co-owner of the Cumberland Brewing Company, which was awarded 'Business of the Year' for 2025 recently.

The award recognizes outstanding commitment to community sustainability and locally rooted leadership.

Heartiest congratulations Darren, from all your Airpark friends!

Sealand Flight best Flight School in Canada!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:53:38 GMT

Sealand Flight has been recognized by COPA as 'Flight School of the Year for 2025'.

Heartiest Congratulations!

Here is the official media announcement:

"Sealand Flight in Campbell River has been awarded Flight School of the Year for 2025 by the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA). “This award reflects the work of our founders, instructors, students, and partners who have pushed forward on electric training, safety, and professional pilot development,” said Mike Andrews, a Sealand Flight spokesperson. “With the Velis Electro now fully certified in Canada, we’re entering a new phase – expanding our electric training, strengthening our professional pilot pathway, and supporting the national transition to low-emission aviation.” The award recognizes Sealand for excellence in flight training, student experience, and leadership in advancing general aviation across Canada. Sigmund Bering Sort, COPA’s western vice-chair and BC/Yukon regional director, presented the award to the Sealand team in Campbell River early in November. Sort said the recognition reflects years of the school’s focused effort, innovation and dedication. This year marks a historic milestone in Canadian aviation as Transport Canada has officially Type Certified the Pipistrel Velis Electro, the fully electric airplane used by Sealand Flight for the past 18 months. Since June of last year, Sealand Flight was the first Canadian flight school to offer introductory flight training on an electric airplane, and now, with the certification, electric flight training is available to all Canadian schools. The school offers training for first flights to commercial licenses, instructor ratings, and advanced courses, including electric aircraft training, serving the Vancouver Island area, including Campbell River, Courtenay, Powell River, Qualicum Beach and Nanaimo."

Order of Canada Recipient

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 14:57:56 GMT

Courtenay Airpark Association president Ray Henault was presented with the Order of Canada by G/C Mary Simon at a ceremony in Ottawa on 18 Sep.

Link to the full ceremony can be found here

Ray's investiture starts at minute 38:37

Heartiest congratulations from all of us Ray!

Flight Winners!

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 14:51:04 GMT

The winners of the draw for sightseeing flights donated by the Courtenay Airpark as part of our CVEX participation were Cassy Kirschner and Oliver Holland.

Seen here with Airpark member and pilot Duane Dubyk following their flights in Ted Haraldson's C172.

Airpark at the 2025 TASC

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 00:26:55 GMT

Texada Aerospace Camp Submission to the Editor - Totem Times 04 August 2025

On July 25, 2025, six pilots from Courtenay Airpark flew their aircraft over the Strait of Georgia to Gillies Bay Airport on Texada Island. Four of them provided familiarization flights for the young participants of the annual Texada Aerospace Camp (TASC), while the other two coordinated flight activities and spoke with the young aviation enthusiasts. Of the six members, four are former military personnel - including one female. The Airpark aircraft were joined by a Cormorant helicopter and crew from 442 Squadron for a live hoisting demonstration and fly-by, much to the delight of the TASC participants and staff.

The objective of the Camp is to immerse boys and girls, aged 10 to 15 years old, in the basics of aviation and aerospace sciences through training aids and a curriculum developed by aircraft maintenance engineers, software developers, pilots, and scientists – all volunteers. Over the course of a week, the curriculum includes principles of flight, aerodynamics, flight simulator instruction, metalworking, aerospace careers, and more. It also includes a familiarization flight in a real aircraft, which Airpark members were proud and pleased to provide to the 24 young participants .

Some of the flights were conducted under the banner of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s “Young Eagles” program, launched in 1992 to provide interested young people, aged eight to seventeen, with the opportunity to fly in a general aviation aircraft. The Airpark pilots certified to conduct “Young Eagles” flights, Ray Henault (President of the Airpark) and Chris Hansen (former 407 Sqn pilot and Airpark coordinator for the event), flew six young TASC participants under the program. As a result, they are included among the more than 2.2 million young people across Canada and the USA who are recognized as “Young Eagles”, and received an official “Young Eagles” certificate and flight logbook.

As in years past, the youth who flew with us during our day on Texada Island were inspirational and demonstrated an impressive knowledge of aviation-related subjects, as well as a solid understanding of the principles of flight. As always, the members of the Courtenay Airpark who participated in this event came away impressed with our budding young aviators and their enthusiastic interest in the world of flight.

The Courtenay Airpark is deeply grateful to the Camp Director, Sheila McFarland, for her capable and meticulous management of the overall TASC program, including our participation. We applaud her and her team of volunteers for their dedicated efforts and contributions to aviation and the development of today’s youth.

Ray Henault, Gen (Ret’d)

President – Courtenay Airpark Association

Charles Henry 'Charlie' Leake 1932-2024

Mon, 19 May 2025 23:15:37 GMT

Final Farewell to Charlie Leake

A memorial service was held at the McBride Anglican United Church in McBride, BC, on Sunday, May 18^th, 2025, to bid farewell to Charlie Leake, our good friend and member of the Courtenay Airpark for more than 25 years.

Charlie, who passed away on December 8^th, 2024, was a natural pilot and distinguished leader in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). He had flown jets and helicopters and completed his time in uniform in 1977 as the Commanding Officer of 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Edmonton (Namao), AB.

After leaving the RCAF, and before settling in Comox, BC, Charlie established a flying business in McBride, BC, becoming a prominent member of the community. His contributions were so significant that the airport was re-named McBride/Charlie Leake Field in his honour, something that very rarely happens while someone is still alive!

After selling his business and moving to Courtenay with his wife Pat, Charlie could be seen regularly in the skies above Courtenay/Comox in his RV-4. He flew several times a week when the weather permitted and was one of the most current and proficient private pilots on the airfield. He prided himself on flying “by the numbers” and by the rules, and was an inspiration to us all, still flying regularly at age 92.

Charlie will be sorely missed by his family and friends, but will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

Ray Henault, President

School Tour of Airpark 13May

Fri, 16 May 2025 16:35:05 GMT

City Works Dep. Training

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 01:28:58 GMT

“The City of Courtenay Works Division will be conducting Spill Recovery Training along the Airpark’s lagoon fenceline during the afternoons of 22 and 23 April. While the training will not be done close to the runway, please be aware of the presence of City personnel along the north fenceline.”

EAA Chapter 85 Comox Valley

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 21:43:58 GMT

A local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) has been formed and will hold its first meeting on Wednesday May 21st. at 1830 in the Pilots Lounge, Courtenay Airpark. Monthly meetings are planned for the third Wednesday of the month. See listing under 'Events'.

Founded in 1953, the EAA has grown from a handful of aviation enthusiasts to an international organization representing virtually the entire spectrum of recreational aviation. Many of its 300,000+ members belong to local chapters.

An EAA chapter is a local group of aviation enthusiasts with interests ranging from aircraft building, to engaging youth, to aviation safety, to vintage aircraft, ultralights, warbirds, aerobatic flight, and everything in between.

In addition to monthly meetings, the local chapter allows members to share their interest with thousands of other members in a variety of aviation, educational, and social activities such as:

Aircraft building/restoration
Seminars/workshops/guest speakers
EAA Young Eagle rallies
Fly-ins/fly-outs
Cookouts
Fundraising
And much more!

For more information or to join the EAA, please click HERE

Passing of Charlie Leake

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 02:51:21 GMT

In memory of Charlie Leake 1932-2024

Dear members of the Courtenay Airpark, I

It is with much regret that I am writing to let you know that one of our long-standing members, Charlie Leake, passed away at home on Sunday, 8 December 2024. Charlie was one of the oldest, licensed pilots in Canada, and would have been 93 next month. Charlie was formerly a pilot in the RCAF, and flew a variety of fighter aircraft and helicopters during his time in uniform.

He was the Commanding Officer of 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron at CFB Namao, just north of the City of Edmonton, when I first met him in 1976. He retired after his tour in Namao, as a Lieutenant-Colonel, and opened a floatplane and helicopter business in McBride, BC, shortly after leaving the military. He was so successful, and such a key member of the community, that the airport in McBride was ultimately named "McBride / Charlie Leake Field". Quite an honour for any aviator! After he closed his business, Charlie moved to Comox with his wife Pat, and has been flying his RV-4 at the Courtenay Airpark for nearly two decades.

He was admired as one of the most current and proficient pilots at the Airpark, flying whenever he could. Without a doubt, he had a passion for flight that was part of his very being. Charlie will be sorely missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Ray Henault, President

If you find a dead bird....

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:36:09 GMT

"A dead gull was found on Airpark property last month (November 2024). Because there was no obvious trauma, the bird was picked up with gloved hands, frozen, and sent to the Animal Health Centre which is part of the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food in Abbotsford, BC. Upon investigation, the gull was found "Positive for Influenza A virus, Type H5". This is more commonly known as "Bird Flu". Please report any future dead bird findings to Chris Hansen (call/text 250.702.7403) who will take care of disposal or transport to the Animal Health Centre, if required. Do not touch dead birds with your bare hands. Signed, Ray Henault, President".

Recent Airpark Incidents....

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 18:18:07 GMT

....are reminders!

A. Respect our short runway, don't land long!

B. If you have an aircraft in an outside spot, please ensure tie-downs are secure, especially when storms are in the forecast.

Photos:

C172 Runway overrun 18Nov2024

Ultralight Challenger blown over fence during storm, 20Nov2024

Winner of sightseeing flight

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 17:45:43 GMT

Winner of the draw for a local flight, held at the CVEX August 25th. 2024 was Danielle Guiney, shown here with Airpark member and pilot Duane Dubyk.

Airpark Courtenay Airpark Open House Sep. 21st. 2024

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 13:04:39 GMT

In recognition of the Airpark's 60th. anniversary, we opened our gate to the public on Saturday Sep. 21st.

Several Airpark members had their aircraft on view. An information booth with historical photos dating back to the Airpark's birth in 1964 as well as a display board showing the various present-day activities the Airpark supports, were included.

Undoubtedly, the star attractions were the Pipistrel fully-electric training aircraft flown in from Campbell River (thanks Sealand Flight!) and the free ice cream for all (thanks Mo!)

With minimal advertising for the event attendance was somewhat sparse but as the compressed video below shows, a steady trickle of citizens did come through the gate for a look.

We appreciate the public's interest in our effort to reach out to the community and will consider making the Open House an annual event.

And the winner is...

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 11:54:17 GMT

Winner of the draw for a sightseeing flight, held at the Airpark's Open House on Sep.21st, was Jody MacFarland shown here post-flight, along with fellow passenger Jaden Williams and Pilot and Airpark member Clint Mowbray.

Courtenay Airpark at the Comox Air Show

Sun, 26 May 2024 15:35:20 GMT

Courtenay Airpark Static Display at the 2024 Comox Airshow

The Courtenay Airpark was invited by 19 Wing Comox to participate in the 2024 Comox Airshow, held on May 18th, 2024, with a static display of Airpark aircraft.

Six members of the Airpark flew their aircraft to 19 Wing on 17 May to park their aircraft in the assigned static display location. The aircraft included an RV-6, an RV-6A, a Sidewinder, a Cessna 185 on amphibious floats, a Cherokee II, and a Zenair 601. Sealand Flight also joined our group with their new Pipistrel Velis electric aircraft.

The group was visited by hundreds of Airshow visitors throughout Airshow Day on May 18^th, and was acknowledged by 19 Wing as a great addition to the static display lineup for the Airshow.

The Airpark participants proudly represented the Airpark at the Airshow, demonstrating the passion for aviation shared by our friends in uniform and promoting General Aviation in the Comox Valley.

The Airpark extends its congratulations to 19 Comox for the huge success of the 2024 Comox Airshow, and its thanks for the opportunity to participate in this event that also marked the 100^th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Ray Henault, President

New e-Bike Rental Stand

Mon, 20 May 2024 15:45:02 GMT

A new e-bike stand with four positions, has been installed near the Airpark main gate (walkway, far side of boat launch). The Courtenay Airpark has no connection with this service other than to inform visiting pilots of this availability.

Hangar Intrusions, Courtenay Airpark

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:46:21 GMT

"Dear members of the Courtenay Airpark Association;

Over the past few weeks, there have been a number of hangar and aircraft intrusions at the Airpark, resulting in the theft of some equipment and damage to hangar doors, interior structures and the perimeter fence. The RCMP has responded to the incidents and has been diligently investigating them. Hangar occupants affected by the intrusions have also undertaken repairs to their hangars.

If you discover intrusions to your aircraft or hangars, please report the incident to the Board of Directors and the RCMP immediately. The case file to quote when you contact the RCMP is: RCMP File # 2024-4809.

The Board of Directors is investigating ways to enhance security at the Airpark.

Ray Henault

President Courtenay Airpark Association *

Ray Henault appointed to the Order of Canada

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 18:07:28 GMT

Ray Henault, president of the Courtenay Airpark Association, has been honoured by the Governor General's appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada (2023)

Here is the official announcement:

General Raymond Roland Henault, C.M., C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. (Ret’d)
Courtenay, British Columbia
For his long-time commitment—both in and out of uniform—to Canada’s defence and peacekeeping operations and policies.

The Airpark members extend their sincere congratulations on this well-deserved honour.

Notice of passing-Mr. William 'Bill' Cove

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 17:15:40 GMT

“The Airpark Association regrets to announce the passing of Mr. Bill Cove, a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the Airpark, on 5 December 2023 at age 90. Bill was a talented aviator with a successful career across the commercial pilot sector, flying for BC Airlines, Canfor, Weldwood, and Coulson Forest Products, and continued to impart his knowledge to many new and seasoned aviators well into his late 80s. Bill’s smile and zest for life will truly be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he Rest In Peace.”

Obituary

Airpark Bursary Presentation

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:30:37 GMT

AIRPARK BURSARY PRESENTATION
JEROME DONNELLY - TEENFLIGHT CAMPBELL RIVER
TEENFLIGHT OPEN HOUSE - 29 OCTOBER 2023

The Courtenay Airpark Board of Directors is pleased to announce that a $1500.00 flight training bursary was presented to Jerome Donnelly, a member of TeenFlight Campbell River, at the TeenFlight Open House held at the Campbell River Airport on Sunday, 29 October 2023.

Jerrome was selected for the bursary amongst a number of candidates, through coordination and the strong recommendation of Therisa Lowe - Executive Assistant for Sealand Aviation in Campbell River and a Volunteer Director with TeenFlight. Jerome was selected for his enthusiastic pursuit of a pilot's licence at Sealand Flight and his sincere desire to pursue a future career in aviation.

The bursary was presented on behalf of the Airpark Board of Directors by Darryl Rolfe, the Board's Treasurer. Darryl is also an active pilot and an Air Force Reservist at 19 Wing Comox.

The Airpark Board of Directors congratulates Jerome on his selection for the bursary and best success with his flying training.

Video

Ray
Raymond R. Henault
President
Courtenay Airpark Association

Notice of Passing - Mr. Jim Slater

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 18:30:23 GMT

It is with deep regret that the Airpark Board of Directors wishes to make you aware of the passing of Mr. Jim Slater on Thursday, 26 October 2023.

Jim was a former Air Force officer who established the Courtenay Flight Centre at the Courtenay Airpark after retirement, training over 2000 pilots over the 25 years that the Flight Centre operated from the Airpark and other satellite locations on the Island and the lower mainland. Jim was a dedicated member of the Airpark and a former member of the Board of Directors, and he will always be remembered for his multiple contributions to the community of aviators.

The Board of Directors extends its sincerest condolences to his wife, Margaret and the entire family. There will be no funeral services, but a memorial is anticipated at some time in the future.

Signed: The Airpark Board of Directors

NOTICE of Drone Flights over City of Courtenay

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 23:31:24 GMT

McElhanney Associates Land Surveying Ltd. has been contracted by the City of Courtenay to use a drone to survey the parking situation around the Town of Courtenay.

The drone will stay West of the River (within the red boundary on the attached map) and at a maximum altitude of 300 ft AGL.

The pilot is an advanced certificate drone pilot and will be monitoring 123.35 throughout and will discontinue flight if there is a safety risk to aircraft.

Current proposed schedule is:

Wednesday (or Thursday) Sept 27/28 – 0930 to 1800

Saturday Sept 30 1030-1400

Saturday Oct 7 – 1030-1400

This may change or be extended due to weather. The pilot will inform us when they have completed their flights.

New Maintenance Provider in Powell River CYPW

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 22:18:21 GMT

AR AeroMotive Consulting Limited is now offering maintenance at the Powell River airport but can be mobile depending on your needs.

Take a look at our website and please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

AR AEROMOTIVE

Thank you,

Annie and Ron

AR AeroMotive Consulting Ltd

AE AeroMotive Poster.pdf

Float Plane Dock Access

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 14:55:58 GMT

The Gate to the newly replaced float dock has been fitted with a combination lock.

Visitors arriving at the dock can unlock from dock side. An information poster with the code, is available in the Airpark Lounge.

For Airpark members, the information is also available in the Members Area, Social Forum.

Winners of the sightseeing flight draw

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:14:15 GMT

The winners of the two sightseeing flights generously offered by Ted Haraldson (owner of aircraft) and flown by Duame Dubyk are shown after they enjoyed their flights in the local area on Saturday, Sep.2

Jason Lutter and Henry with pilot Duane Dubyk

Duane, Danika Cottingham and Henry, with Airpark president Ray Henault

Floatplane Dock Completed & first visitor!

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 14:28:30 GMT

The project to replace our 30+ year old floatplane dock was completed by Marine Solutions Inc. of Powell River on 17 Aug. 2023.

In the photo below, Ray Henault, president of the Courtenay Airpark Association officially welcomes Ruby Chorel, the first float plane pilot to tie up at the new dock.

(L-R, Alexander Kiesielius, Ray Henault, Ruby Chorel)

"Old and new!"

Helo pad construction, Aug. 2023

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 01:26:58 GMT

Construction of a new Air Ambulance Helipad will commence Monday, August 21, and is projected to be completed by August 24. Crews will be working between the hours of 8 am- 4 pm (hours may vary).

The image below shows the extent of the construction and the impacted taxiways and hangars.

We appreciate your patience and acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email courtenay.airpark@gmail.com.

Happy Flying,

Your Board of Directors

Notice of Passing - Larry Matthews

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 22:57:34 GMT

Dear members of the Courtenay Airpark Association,

It is with deep regret that the Airpark Board of Directors wishes to advise you of the passing of Mr. Larry Matthews on 01 August 2023.

Larry was a long-time and very active member of the Airpark, had a passion for aviation and was proud of his Challenger ultralight. He could be found regularly at the Airpark and was always ready to lend a hand and volunteer his services for whatever job needed to be done.

Larry was one of those aviators that always had a smile and a good word to say. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The Airpark Board of Directors extends its sincerest condolences to Larry's family and friends. Our hearts and prayers are with them at this difficult time of grieving.

In sadness,

Ray Henault

President Courtenay Airpark Association

Phone: (250) 465-0086 (Cell)

Texada Aerospace Camp Flights

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 22:28:39 GMT

Another TASC is in the books and Airpark pilot volunteers had a great time once again, giving air experience flights to 24 young people who attended this year.

As before, we started with a safety briefing in Courtenay before launching for Gillies Bay with our group of five aircraft, ready to begin at 1000 the 15 minutes of local flying each of the young people would receive. The operation went smoothly , in large part due to the excellent work by our ground coordinator Martin as well as by the planning and effort by Sheila McFarland (TASC I/C) and her volunteers. All flying was completed by noon, followed by lunch and social interaction with the TASC students and staff.

Weather was perfect and we thoroughly enjoyed our Texada visit and the chance to top off the camp experience for the students with a real-life flight. Certainly, no one expects them all to become pilots, aircraft technicians or air traffic controllers but they already have shown some interest in aviation in attending the camp and these flight might just be the spark that starts someone onto an aviation-related career!

Thanks to Martin for coordinating the operation and to Marisa for conducting the Q&A sessions. Special thanks to the pilots, Richard, Karl, Duane & Sylvain for donating their time, aircraft and fuel.

If you are reading this and know of a young person who would be interested in attending the Texada Aerospace Camp next year, the link below provides detailed information. Note that the TASC is already half -booked for 2024!

Texada Aerospace Camp

More photos from TASC 2023

Float Plane Dock Replacement August 2023

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 14:40:39 GMT

"The Courtenay Airpark Association is working with Remote Marine Solutions to replace their aged float plane dock, ensuring aircraft visiting Courtenay have a safe place to park while they visit or conduct business. This dock is located on the Courtenay River, adjacent to the Courtenay Marina and the Courtenay Riverway. There will be no impact to trail users and the Courtenay Riverway will remain open. The dock replacement is planned for August 10 and 11. This project is supported by funding from the Government of B.C. aimed at improving aviation-related infrastructure around the province."

Project was completed on Thursday 17 Aug. Photos of the new dock installation below:

Ascent Helicopters new BC Medevac operator

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:36:22 GMT

Ascent Helicopters will replace Helijet for providing BC Medevac flights with a fleet of seven new AW169 aircraft. We look forward to seeing them at the Airpark!

https://verticalmag.com/news/ascent-helicopters-lands-544-4m-b-c-air-ambulance-contract/

Stories from the past...GBV1

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:56:41 GMT

You may have noticed a Beaver aircraft mounted on a pedestal on the south entrance of highway 19 into Campbell River. The aircraft's registration is CF-GBV, flown years ago by local aviation legend Bill Cove who gave it the unofficial callsign " Great Big Vodoo One'. CF101 'Vodoo' jets were based at CFB Comox at the time and were a familiar sight in the local skies. Here is Bill's story about 'Great Big Vodoo One':

GreatBigVodooOne.pdf

Courtenay Airpark support for 2022 Texada Aerospace Camp

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 19:33:48 GMT

Every Year, dedicated volunteers on Texada Island run a week-long camp for youths 10-16, exposing them to all facets of aviation. Pilots from the Courtenay Airpark supports their effort by providing air experience flights to participants at the end of the camp.

After missing a couple of years due to Covid, the camp was in action again this past year, and our group flew over on July 29 to give the 16 youths a local flight.

Ray Henault, president of the Courtenay Airpark Association. participated with his aircraft and afterwards penned a couple of articles describing the experience. See link and article below:

Texada Aerospace Camp. Crown Isle Magazine. Sept 2022.pdf

Article in The Totem Times, 22Nov.2022:

BC Aviation Museum "Wanted"

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 23:38:47 GMT

BC Aviation Museum.pdf

Nanaimo CYCD VFR Procedures.

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:27:42 GMT

A new (April 2022) PowerPoint Presentation on revised VPTC information for the Nanaimo airport, has been provided by NavCanada/PrepAIR. The file (requires .pptx viewer) can be accessed on the 'Links' page or here.

RCMP Human External Cargo (HEC) Training - Courtenay Airpark, 21-25 February 2022

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 22:25:43 GMT

RCMP RESCUE TRAINING AT THE COURTENAY AIRPARK

The Courtenay Airpark was the site of some very specialized training during the week of 21 to 25 February 2022.

Over the course of the week, Emergco Aerospace, a Canadian company based in Vancouver, BC, provided Human External Cargo (HEC) rescue training for the RCMP Comox Air Section and the Vancouver Island Emergency Response Team (ERT). The training, conducted at the Airpark and at Smits Field, provided the RCMP pilots and ERT members from across Vancouver Island with the skills necessary to conduct external helicopter-borne rescue and evacuation operations in difficult and often inaccessible environments.

The training included classroom work, static harness training and specialized external long-line training, using the Comox Air Section’s Airbus H-125 helicopter flown by RCMP pilots. The HEC training, which certified seven members of the Vancouver Island ERT and the local RCMP pilots, was successfully completed on 25 February.

The Courtenay Airpark was delighted to host the training in their facilities, and is proud to have contributed to a skills-building undertaking that will benefit those who may find themselves in distress across Vancouver Island (and elsewhere, if needed).

Ray Henault

President

For,

The Board of Directors

Courtenay Airpark Association

100 – 20^thStreet

Courtenay, BC V9N 8B1

Fuel at dock no longer available

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:00:06 GMT

Due to issues with the pipes that connect the Airpark fuel station with the dock, 100LL fuel is no longer available at the dock. As of now, the pipes are not planned to be replaced. A notam has been posted and the CFS (Water) will be amended in due course.

Courtenay Airpark News item (CV Record)

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 17:27:23 GMT

BPM10063548_lr-1.pdf

Courtenay Airpark gets nearly $160K for infrastructure upgrades

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:03:01 GMT

News item 24 Mar. 2021 in local publication

Comox Valley Record

CFB Comox Circuits & Approaches UPDATE: FEES CANCELLED 27APR21

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 17:40:40 GMT

From CFB Comox: "Effective immediately, there are no fees associated for practice approaches and circuits for non-commercial/private pilots, including flight schools, at CYQQ. This is retroactive, to the start of this initiative a few months ago. "

Document.rtf

ADS-B Information for Flying in US Airspace after 01Jan2020

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 17:51:35 GMT

ADS-B Information posted by COPA

Project Watershed video May 2019

Thu, 30 May 2019 15:44:38 GMT

Project Watershed is closely involved with the restoration and upkeep of the natural environment around our Airpark. In mid-May they made use of our lounge for public presentations which included a tour of the river and surroundings next to the Airpark. This short video of that tour gives a different and enjoyable view from what we normally observe from the airfield side.

Flight Experience for Young People

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 01:17:07 GMT

Courtenay Airpark members are well aware of the looming shortage of aviation professionals, a situation much in the news for the past few years. We support all efforts to get young people interested in pursuing aviation-related careers and to this end, several Airpark volunteer-pilots participate in two recognized programs that offer flight experiences at no cost, to youths aged 8 to 17 inclusive.

COPA for KIDS is sponsored by the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association. Founded in 1952, the mission of COPA is to advance, promote and preserve the Canadian freedom to fly. The Association has close to 16,000 members across Canada and the COPA for Kids program, which introduces over 3000 Canadian children to aviation each year, is a vital component of its collective outreach and promotion within the broader community.

EAA Young Eagles is sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Association based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The EAA was founded in 1953 and is an international organization of aviation enthusiasts numbering over 200,000 world-wide including many in Canada.

To date, COPA for Kids has introduced over 23,000 young Canadians to General Aviation.

Since its beginning in 1992, more than 2 million young people have enjoyed a free introductory flight through EAA's Young Eagle program.

Volunteer EAA YE's and COPA for Kids pilots bear the total cost of flights and as members of these organizations are duty-bound to operate in accordance with all applicable Transport Canada rules and regulations. In addition to the normal mandated insurance coverage, both the EAA and COPA extend additional coverage for both the pilot and passenger.

For complete information click on the links above.

Interested persons may also contact the Courtenay Airpark Association via email, to connect with a participating local pilot.

50th Anniverary

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 05:00:06 GMT

This is the news article from the Echo

Courtenay Airpark Association Airpark News

Congratulations Darren! Business of the Year

Sealand Flight best Flight School in Canada!

Order of Canada Recipient

Flight Winners!

Airpark at the 2025 TASC

Charles Henry 'Charlie' Leake 1932-2024

School Tour of Airpark 13May

City Works Dep. Training

EAA Chapter 85 Comox Valley

Passing of Charlie Leake

If you find a dead bird....

Recent Airpark Incidents....

Winner of sightseeing flight

Airpark Courtenay Airpark Open House Sep. 21st. 2024

And the winner is...

Courtenay Airpark at the Comox Air Show

New e-Bike Rental Stand

Hangar Intrusions, Courtenay Airpark

Ray Henault appointed to the Order of Canada

Notice of passing-Mr. William 'Bill' Cove

Airpark Bursary Presentation

Notice of Passing - Mr. Jim Slater

NOTICE of Drone Flights over City of Courtenay

New Maintenance Provider in Powell River CYPW

Float Plane Dock Access

Winners of the sightseeing flight draw

Floatplane Dock Completed & first visitor!

Helo pad construction, Aug. 2023

Notice of Passing - Larry Matthews

Texada Aerospace Camp Flights

Float Plane Dock Replacement August 2023

Ascent Helicopters new BC Medevac operator

Stories from the past...GBV1

Courtenay Airpark support for 2022 Texada Aerospace Camp

BC Aviation Museum "Wanted"

Nanaimo CYCD VFR Procedures.

RCMP Human External Cargo (HEC) Training - Courtenay Airpark, 21-25 February 2022

Fuel at dock no longer available

Courtenay Airpark News item (CV Record)

Courtenay Airpark gets nearly $160K for infrastructure upgrades

CFB Comox Circuits & Approaches ***UPDATE: FEES CANCELLED 27APR21***

ADS-B Information for Flying in US Airspace after 01Jan2020

Project Watershed video May 2019

Flight Experience for Young People

50th Anniverary

CFB Comox Circuits & Approaches UPDATE: FEES CANCELLED 27APR21