About 8P
Pacific Coastal Airlines, operating as 8P, is a regional carrier built around the rhythms of British Columbia — the kind of airline that exists not to compete with the giants, but to connect the communities that the giants ignore. With 44 non-stop routes spread across 20 airports, all of them within Canada, this is a network defined by geography rather than ambition. YVR anchors the operation with 14 routes radiating outward, but the soul of 8P lives in the smaller hubs like Prince George and Kelowna, where it's often the only commercial option worth considering.
Why fly 8P?
The honest answer to why you'd choose 8P is simple: sometimes there's no real alternative. When you need to move between Vancouver and a smaller BC community on a schedule that respects your time, 8P delivers frequency and reliability that charter or driving simply can't match. But beyond necessity, there's something genuinely appealing about a regional airline that knows its territory this well. The routes are short — the longest, ZMT to YVR, covers just 817 kilometres — which means you're in and out without the theatre of a long-haul experience. For travellers who find smaller operations more human in scale, 8P tends to deliver exactly that.
8P hub airports
- YVR Vancouver — 14 8P routes from Canada
- YLW Kelowna — 5 8P routes from Canada
- YYJ Victoria — 4 8P routes from Canada
- YXS Prince George — 2 8P routes from Canada
- YQQ Comox — 2 8P routes from Canada
Top destination countries on 8P
- Canada — 44 8P routes
Tips for booking 8P
Book directly and early — smaller regional carriers don't always discount through third-party platforms the way the big airlines do. Because 8P operates entirely within Canada, you won't find international connection options or alliance benefits here, so don't build a complex itinerary expecting code-share flexibility. If you're connecting through YVR onto a larger carrier, build in generous transfer time; regional schedules can shift with weather, and British Columbia's mountain corridors don't forgive tight connections. Luggage allowances on regional aircraft tend to be stricter than you'd expect, so check the current weight limits before you pack. And travelling to YLW or YXS specifically? Confirm your booking well in advance — these routes don't have deep seat inventories.
Frequently asked questions about 8P
Where does 8P fly?
8P operates 44 routes primarily throughout Canada, connecting major cities and regional destinations across the country. The airline focuses on serving Canadian domestic markets with a network centered around its main hub.
What is 8P's main hub airport?
8P's main hub is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which serves as the primary connection point for the airline's Canadian route network.
Is 8P a legacy carrier, low-cost carrier, or regional airline?
Based on its focused network of 44 routes and hub-and-spoke model centered in Vancouver, 8P operates as a regional carrier serving Canadian markets. The airline's structure suggests it provides regional connectivity rather than full-service legacy operations.
When should I book flights with 8P and what fare classes are available?
For the best fares, book 2-4 weeks in advance when possible. 8P typically offers multiple fare classes ranging from basic economy to premium options, so compare available classes based on your baggage and service needs when booking.
What are 8P's baggage and check-in policies?
Baggage allowances and check-in procedures vary by fare class and route. Check your specific booking for details, but generally allow 2 hours for domestic check-in and review baggage limits before arrival at the airport.