About Us
WHO WE ARE
Pacific Coastal Airlines is a privately owned British Columbia based regional airline operating from Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) South Terminal. We are one of Canada’s Top Small & Medium Employers of 2024, currently flying to 18 airports in British Columbia. We are the sixth-largest airline operating at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) based on total outbound seats, and the third-largest based on take-offs and landings. We offer personalized charter and cargo services across British Columbia and western Canada.
At Pacific Coastal Airlines, we proudly uphold our motto, “People Friendly. People First.” Our dedicated teams are driven by a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. As an equal opportunity employer, we foster a positive and supportive workplace that values collaboration, accountability, and loyalty. Our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve goes beyond the skies we traverse; we strive to meet the needs of everyone around us with care and dedication.
OUR VISION
A future where communities are connected and enriched, supported and embraced.
OUR MISSION
To earn and retain customer loyalty by delivering top quality service and an exceptional travel experience.
OUR HISTORY
Pacific Coastal Airlines was founded by Daryl Smith nearly forty years ago. The truck logger in Bella Coola, a small community on the central coast of British Columbia, decided to get a pilot’s license and purchased a small seaplane to make it easier to get in and out of remote camps. Some friends chipped in for fuel to tag along and thus began the adventure that led to Pacific Coastal Airlines.
That legacy of dedication and hard work continues with his son, President Quentin Smith, intimately involved in all aspects of the aviation business started by his father. A legendary figure in British Columbia aviation, Daryl has received numerous awards and accolades from his peers and industry associations alike.
WESTJET LINK
Pacific Coastal Airlines is proud to partner and operate flights on behalf of WestJet to connect smaller cities in British Columbia and Alberta. WestJet Link was created to connect smaller cities in British Columbia and Alberta at WestJet’s domestic hub at the Calgary International Airport and beyond.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Pacific Coastal Airlines believe our vision goes beyond providing reliable air travel as we strive to make a positive impact through community programs, sponsorships, and scholarships to enrich and connect our communities.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Quentin Smith
President
Zahra Kawa
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Corporate Development
Johnathan Richardson
Vice President, Commercial
Darcy Coonfer
Vice President, Operations
BEYOND THE FLIGHTS
Our Aircraft
Explore the aircraft we're operating!
Inflight Magazine
Find travel inspirations through our magazine!
Read Our Blogs
Read about our milestones and special events!
Executive Team
Learn about our executive members!