Vancouver Airport Code (YVR): IATA, Map & Travel Guide

Independent Vancouver airport guideFact-checked: August 10, 2026
Vancouver · Richmond, British Columbia · Canada

Vancouver Airport Code (YVR): know the airport before you travel

Know exactly which airport YVR is, where it is, how YVR differs from YXX, which gate zone you need, how connections work, and what to do for Canada Line, U.S. preclearance, parking, pickup and Airport South.

Quick answer: Vancouver International Airport uses YVR as its IATA code and CYVR as its ICAO code. The airport is in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada—not in downtown Vancouver.
Official-source linksPDF-derived connection guidanceLive Vancouver timeMobile-first toolsNo fake live data
Airport information boardVancouver time
IATA airport codeVancouver International Airport
YVR
ICAO airport codeInternational operational identifier
CYVR
Airport city / municipalityRichmond, British Columbia
CAN
Time zoneAmerica/VancouverComparing with your device…
PT
Street / courier address3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC V7B 0A4
YVR
i
Independent guide: Airport-Guides.org is not Vancouver Airport Authority, an airline, CATSA, CBSA, U.S. CBP or TransLink. Real-time cards below open official sources because gates, security waits, parking capacity, service hours and transportation can change.
Travel-day command center

Check these live YVR pages before leaving

Official live sources

Use static guidance to understand the airport, then use the live source that controls the decision you are making. A page saying a lot or checkpoint is normally open is not the same as same-day availability.

Hard-to-find answers first

Six YVR details that prevent the most common travel mistakes

01

YVR and YXX are different airports

YVR is Vancouver International Airport in Richmond. YXX is Abbotsford International Airport in Abbotsford. Do not book parking, hotels or pickups until the code on the ticket is confirmed.

Airport-code check
02

South Terminal is not a walk from the Main Terminal

Airport South uses a courtesy shuttle. Main Terminal pickup is on Level 3 at separate International and Domestic points; route A1 also serves the Floatplane Dock.

Terminal transfer
03

Through-checked bags change the connection route

Eligible connections can stay in dedicated flows, but South Terminal transfers, ineligible airlines and some special circumstances require baggage claim and landside re-entry.

Connection risk
04

Pets or firearms can make you ineligible for connection facilities

YVR’s international-arrival connection map specifically routes passengers traveling with pets or firearms away from the dedicated connection facilities and into the normal customs/landside process.

PDF-derived rule
05

The airport AddFare applies when leaving Sea Island

As of July 1, 2026, TransLink’s YVR Airport AddFare is $6.50 on applicable eastbound trips starting at YVR-Airport, Sea Island Centre or Templeton—not on the normal trip into YVR from downtown.

Current transit fare
06

U.S.-bound passengers clear U.S. formalities before the flight

YVR has U.S. preclearance. Build extra time for security and U.S. CBP before reaching E gates instead of assuming border inspection happens only after landing.

Transborder travel
NOW
Current August 2026 planning note: the South Terminal is separate from the Main Terminal, the summer A1 shuttle schedule is currently in effect through September 30, and selected South Runway night closures remain scheduled. Check your live airline record before choosing a terminal, parking product or connection route.
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Code, name, country & address

What airport is YVR?

YVR is the IATA airport code for Vancouver International Airport, the major airport serving Metro Vancouver and British Columbia. The airport itself is on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada.

IATA codeYVR
ICAO codeCYVR
Airport nameVancouver International Airport
CountryCanada
ProvinceBritish Columbia
MunicipalityRichmond
Postal codeV7B 0A4
Local time zoneAmerica/Vancouver

Vancouver airport code meaning

For a traveler, the practical meaning is simple: YVR identifies Vancouver International Airport in airline booking systems, baggage tags and airport searches. CYVR is the four-letter ICAO identifier used in operational aviation contexts. Because the airport’s full name does not spell “YVR,” do not try to infer another airport from the letters alone.

Exact address to use for navigation

3211 Grant McConachie Way, Link Building, L5, Richmond, BC, Canada V7B 0A4. For passenger drop-off, follow terminal roadway signs rather than navigating to an office floor inside the Link Building.

Common code confusion

YVR vs YXX: which Vancouver-area airport is on your ticket?

YVR

Vancouver International Airport

Location: Richmond / Sea Island, British Columbia. This is the main airport normally meant by “Vancouver airport.” It has the Main Terminal, U.S. preclearance, Canada Line rail and Airport South.

YXX

Abbotsford International Airport

Location: Abbotsford, British Columbia. It is a separate Fraser Valley airport at 30440 Liberator Ave in Abbotsford, about 4 km southwest of Abbotsford city centre. Parking, pickup and ground transport booked for YVR will not put you at YXX.

Quick airport-code checker

Choose the code printed on your booking or baggage tag.
Location, map & local time

Where is Vancouver International Airport?

YVR is in Richmond on Sea Island, south of Vancouver. The airport is connected to downtown Vancouver by the Canada Line and to road traffic through Sea Island’s airport approaches.

Use the right map for the job

Road navigation: use the airport address or “Vancouver International Airport.” Inside the terminal: switch to YVR’s interactive indoor map because a normal street map will not show gates, security zones or post-security amenities.

Vancouver time now

The clock in the hero uses the IANA zone America/Vancouver, so it follows local daylight-saving changes automatically. Airline schedules should always be read in the local time shown on the booking unless stated otherwise.

Your device: checking…

Interactive planning tools

Build a practical YVR travel plan

Recommended terminal-arrival time

Uses YVR’s planning baseline: at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before U.S./international departures, then adds selected airport-process buffers.

Enter the departure time to estimate when to reach the airport.

Connection-path checker

Helps identify when dedicated connection facilities may apply. It does not override airline eligibility, border instructions or boarding-pass requirements.

Select your arrival and onward destination.

Parking recommendation & rough cost

Uses current published base rates; booking discounts, taxes and partial-day charging can change the final total.

Choose trip length and priority.

Passenger pickup readiness

Avoid circling or waiting on terminal curbs. YVR’s Cellphone Waiting Area is intended for short waits while the traveler becomes ready.

Driver should wait until the passenger has bags and knows the correct pickup area.
Main Terminal + Airport South

Vancouver airport terminal and gate guide

YVR’s Main Terminal is functionally divided by destination rather than completely separate terminal buildings. The official main-terminal map groups gates into A/B/C domestic zones, D international and E U.S. transborder. Airport South is a separate facility reached by road or shuttle.

Main TerminalA · B · CCanada / Domestic

Domestic gates A1–12, B13–28, C29–52

Passengers flying within Canada use the domestic side. The official map shows multiple domestic security/check-in areas, so follow the live flight record and gate signs rather than choosing security from an old screenshot.

A gates1–12
B gates13–28
C gates29–52
Main TerminalDInternational

International gates D48–78

D is the principal international departure area. Connections and document checks can differ by itinerary. For eligible Canada-to-international connections with through-checked baggage, follow D-gate signs and the airline’s connection instructions.

Gate zoneD48–78
SecurityD Gates checkpoint
ConnectionsDedicated flows may apply
Main TerminalEUnited States

U.S. transborder gates E71–99

U.S.-bound passengers normally complete pre-board security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance at YVR before reaching E gates. Add border-processing time to the normal airport-arrival baseline.

Gate zoneE71–99
BorderU.S. preclearance
Pickup after returnDomestic or International Arrivals depending on itinerary
Airport SouthSTBRegional / coastal

South Terminal and Floatplane Facility

Airport South is a separate hub for regional/coastal services, floatplanes, helicopters and charter activity. YVR currently lists Pacific Coastal, Central Mountain Air, North Cariboo Air, Iskwew Air and Summit Air among South Terminal carriers.

Main-terminal transferRoute A1 courtesy shuttle
Public transit412 from Bridgeport
ParkingAdjacent South Terminal lots
Map reading tip: the official Main Terminal map prints short 3–5 minute walking estimates between some map segments. Treat those as local segment estimates—not a guarantee for the full route from check-in through security to a distant gate.
Official connection-map audit

Connecting at YVR: when you can stay in the connection flow

PDF-derived guidance

YVR’s official connection maps separate passengers by origin, onward country, baggage status and eligibility. The biggest mistake is assuming that a “through tag” always means you can skip immigration, baggage claim or security.

Arriving from within Canada

CAN

Canada → Canada

If baggage is through-checked and your itinerary is eligible, follow the signs to A/B/C gates and your next gate. If the airline tells you to collect bags, follow baggage claim instead.

INTL

Canada → International

Eligible through-checked passengers can follow D Gates. The official connection map tells international connectors to report to the gate counter about one hour before departure for document verification when required.

USA

Canada → United States

Eligible passengers use the U.S. connections route, complete security and U.S. CBP preclearance, then continue to E gates.

Arriving from the United States or another international point

  1. Follow “Connections” to Level 4 when eligibleKeep inbound and outbound boarding passes ready. Participating-airline/through-bag rules determine whether you can remain in the connection facility.
  2. Canada connectionEligible passengers can use the Canada connections facility and continue toward A/B/C gates, with screening when directed.
  3. International connectionFollow the international connection route and CBSA process, then D gates.
  4. United States connectionEligible travelers use the U.S. connection facility, complete security and U.S. Customs, then proceed to E gates.
  5. If you are ineligible or the facility is closedGo to the normal Customs Hall on Arrivals Level 2, collect baggage when required, exit, then go to Departures Level 3 to check in/re-screen as directed.
Special eligibility rule: YVR’s international-arrival connection map says passengers traveling with pets or firearms are not eligible for the dedicated connection facilities. Passengers who need a new Canadian student or work visa/permit process must go to Immigration on Arrivals Level 2 and cannot use the Canada connections facility.
South Terminal connection: YVR’s Canada-arrivals connection map instructs South Terminal connectors to claim all baggage and use the free courtesy shuttle between terminals.
Official South Terminal PDF

South Terminal shuttle: current summer schedule and transfer plan

May 1–Sept. 30 schedule

Route A1 South Terminal links the Main Terminal International stop, Main Terminal Domestic stop, South Terminal and Floatplane Dock. At the Main Terminal, both shuttle pickup areas are on Departures Level 3.

StopFirst departureLast departureWhere / note
Main Terminal International05:2521:25Level 3, adjacent to U.S. transborder check-in
Main Terminal Domestic05:3021:30Level 3, adjacent to Domestic check-in
South Terminal05:4521:45Look for route A1 signs
Floatplane Dock05:5021:50Airport South floatplane stop

The summer PDF uses a roughly 40-minute base cycle with additional highlighted services during parts of the day. Those extra services apply May 1–September 30 and exclude Saturdays. This page intentionally does not hardcode every departure because the airport can update the PDF.

Season warning: this schedule is the current May 1–September 30 timetable. Do not use these first/last times after September 30; switch to the winter schedule linked on the official Airport South page.

Public transit to Airport South

From the Canada Line, transfer at Bridgeport Station to the 412 Sea Island South bus from Bay 6. This is useful when your trip starts or ends at Airport South rather than the Main Terminal.

Accessibility

YVR says the A1 courtesy shuttle can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids, including non-folding/non-collapsible devices.

CATSA security planning

YVR Security Express, Verified Traveller and connection-only screening

Checked August 10, 2026

Start with the airport’s planning baseline: at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before a U.S. or international flight. Then add time for airline bag-drop cutoffs, accessibility support, South Terminal transfers and U.S. preclearance. A checkpoint’s opening hours do not guarantee your airline counter is open.

CheckpointPublished hoursPrimary useImportant detail
ABC South03:30–24:00 dailyCanada / A, B, C gatesVerified Traveller express access is listed
ABC North04:00–01:30 dailyCanada / A, B, C gatesAccess includes trusted/priority passengers, wheelchairs and strollers
D Gates05:00–02:00 dailyInternational departuresSecurity Express e-gate validation is available for eligible passengers
E Gates04:00–22:30 dailyUnited States departuresU.S. preclearance follows screening
South Terminal04:00–01:00 dailyAirport South departuresSeparate terminal; do not go to Main Terminal security first
Checkpoint 306:00–16:00 dailyInternational → domestic connectionsLink Level 4; connecting passengers only

Who can use YVR Security Express?

YVR’s current program lists airline-priority travellers such as Business/Premium Class passengers and qualifying elite members (examples published by YVR include Aeroplan 35K+, Star Alliance Gold and SkyPriority), plus Fairmont Gold guests. Eligible passengers validate at dedicated e-gates at ABC North, ABC South and D; E-checkpoint eligibility is manually validated.

Verified Traveller is a different program

CATSA’s Verified Traveller program covers approved groups such as NEXUS, Global Entry, RAIC holders, military and police. Where a full Verified Traveller lane is not available, eligible passengers may receive front-of-line Security Express access but still undergo standard screening.

C3
Easy-to-miss connection shortcut: Checkpoint 3 at Link Level 4 is published as 06:00–16:00 daily and is only for eligible international-to-domestic connecting passengers. It is not a general public shortcut.
100

Liquids

Unless an exemption applies, containers must be 100 mL or less and fit in the permitted clear 1 L bag. Follow CATSA instructions at the lane you enter.

CT

CT lanes vary

Do not assume every checkpoint has the same screening equipment or that electronics/liquids can always remain in your bag. Follow the officer and lane signage.

WAIT

Wait time ≠ total time

Security-wait estimates exclude airline check-in, bag drop, the screening procedure itself, border formalities and the walk to the gate.

U.S.-bound flights

U.S. preclearance at YVR: security and border control happen before departure

Vancouver International Airport is a U.S. preclearance location. For most eligible U.S.-bound itineraries, travelers complete U.S. Customs and Border Protection formalities at YVR before boarding. After arriving in the United States, the flight generally arrives like a domestic flight for border-processing purposes.

  1. Check in for the operating airlineConfirm E-gate/transborder routing and baggage acceptance.
  2. Complete CATSA securityUse the U.S./E-gates screening route and follow lane instructions.
  3. Complete U.S. CBP preclearanceKeep passport/travel documents ready and answer border questions before proceeding.
  4. Continue to E gatesRecheck the live gate after border processing because gate assignments can change.
Published CBP hours: the Vancouver preclearance location is currently listed approximately 4:30 a.m.–12:00 a.m.. Border operations can change, so treat that as a planning reference rather than a guarantee for every airline schedule.
Entering Canada

International arrivals at YVR: kiosks, baggage and Advance Declaration

If Vancouver is your final Canadian destination, follow the Canada-arrivals stream to border processing before entering the public arrivals area. Connecting passengers may be routed differently when their airline and itinerary qualify, so follow the connection signs rather than assuming every international arrival uses the same path.

Border processingFollow CBSA signs and prepare your passport or Canadian PR card.
Certify declarationUse a primary inspection kiosk and complete the on-screen steps.
Collect baggageFollow your flight/carousel display unless your approved connection flow says otherwise.
Exit or connectFollow CBSA/airline instructions for public arrivals or the next-flight route.

YVR uses primary inspection kiosks—not CBSA eGates

CBSA’s current airport list names YVR for primary inspection kiosks. Its current eGate list names only Toronto Pearson Terminal 1. At a kiosk, travelers generally scan a passport or Canadian Permanent Resident card, take a photo, complete/certify the declaration and take the receipt to a border services officer.

Advance Declaration is optional

Eligible travelers can use the Advance Declaration feature in ArriveCAN to prepare customs and immigration information up to 72 hours before arrival. It is not the former pandemic public-health requirement; travelers still complete the airport border process after landing.

Family kiosk detail: CBSA says up to five travellers can use one kiosk to submit declarations together. Children under 14 cannot legally certify their own declaration without an adult.
Ground transportation

Canada Line, NightBus, taxi, rideshare and long-distance connections

TRAIN

Canada Line to downtown Vancouver

The Canada Line connects YVR-Airport station with downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes under normal service and downtown Richmond in about 18 minutes. The station sits between the Domestic and International parts of the Main Terminal.

When exiting the train at YVR, turn left for Domestic and right for U.S./International terminal areas.

Downtown: under 30 minRichmond: ~18 minTap to Pay available
$6.50

2026 YVR Airport AddFare

TransLink increased the YVR Airport AddFare to $6.50 on July 1, 2026. It applies to applicable eastbound trips that start at YVR-Airport, Sea Island Centre or Templeton and travel to Bridgeport or beyond. The AddFare is not a fee on the normal trip to the airport from downtown.

Travel only among the three Sea Island stations remains exempt from the AddFare under TransLink rules; other pass/ticket exemptions also apply.

N10

NightBus when trains are closed

YVR maintains 24/7 public-transit access with the N10 NightBus when Canada Line service is not operating. Check TransLink for the exact stop and current early-morning/late-night schedule.

APP

Uber and Lyft pickup

Authorized ride-app pickup areas are International Arrivals Level 2, Domestic Arrivals Level 2 and the South Terminal. YVR advises waiting until baggage has been collected before requesting the vehicle.

Ride-app drop-off uses permitted unloading space on Departures Level 3.

TAXI

Taxi

Taxi stands are at International Arrivals Level 2 and Domestic Arrivals Level 2. Zone fares apply to many trips from YVR; trips to YVR are metered. Trips outside the zone map can also use meter rates.

BUS

Whistler, Victoria and regional coaches

YVR lists long-distance scheduled services including YVR Skylynx routes toward Whistler via Squamish/Creekside and toward Victoria via Tsawwassen/Swartz Bay. Confirm provider timetable and pickup point before travel.

Driver and passenger pickup

YVR pickup, drop-off and Cellphone Waiting Area

DROP

Departures drop-off

Use Departures Level 3 for immediate unloading. Parking and passenger pickup are not permitted on that level. Accessible curb positions are signed separately.

PICK

Private passenger pickup

Use designated immediate-pickup areas on Arrivals Level 2 at the Domestic or International side. Have the traveler send the exact terminal area after collecting baggage.

WAIT

Cellphone Waiting Area

Drivers can wait free for up to 30 minutes in the Cellphone Waiting Area on Aviation Avenue across from jetSet. The lot includes free Wi-Fi and is designed to reduce terminal circling.

Accessible curb exception: vehicles displaying a SPARC disability parking permit can use identified curb locations for up to 15 minutes. Use the signed accessible pickup/drop-off area rather than a normal curb waiting position.
Live page + 2026 PDF audited

YVR parking rates, taxes, booking rules and the best lot for your trip

Rates checked August 10, 2026
OptionCurrent published base rateTerminal accessBest use
Gateway Valet$67.75/day + one-time $20 valet feeDepartures Level 3 curbFastest vehicle handoff
Terminal Parkade$14.75/half hour; first 30 min free; $67.75/day1–5 min walkClosest covered parking / short pickup
jetSet$36/day5–7 min free shuttle; about every 20 minLonger stays with shuttle
Value Long Term$4.50/hour; $31/day; $165/week4 min free Canada Line; shuttle outside train hoursLowest mainstream drive-up daily rate
Cellphone Waiting Area30 min complimentaryAviation Ave across from jetSetWait until arriving passenger is actually ready
Official-source discrepancy: YVR’s 2026 parking-flowchart PDF describes jetSet as a reservations-only self-parking facility and shows a $146.75 online weekly rate. The current live parking page now says jetSet has guaranteed parking for both reservations and drive-up customers and lists $36/day. For travel-day availability and access rules, use the live parking page; treat the PDF mainly as a decision-flow guide.

Parking taxes can materially change the checkout total

YVR says Metro Vancouver paid parking is subject to 29% Parking Sales Tax plus 5% GST, with GST calculated on the parking fee plus the Parking Sales Tax. Use the official booking quote for the final amount instead of multiplying the headline daily rate alone.

Reservation rules worth knowing before you pay

How earlyReserve up to 6 months ahead; minimum 4 hours before lot arrival.
Maximum stayParkade reservations up to 7 days; Value Long Term and jetSet up to 60 days.
Change/cancelCurrent FAQ allows changes or cancellation up to 4 hours before the applicable booking time at no additional charge.
Entry methodLicense-plate recognition normally triggers entry; keep the confirmation QR code as backup.
Different vehicleUpdate the plate at least 4 hours before arrival or drive-up rates can apply.
Oversize vehiclesOnline reservation is not offered; space is first-come, first-served and extra-space charges can apply.

Height and EV charging

HGT

Vehicle height

Parkade: 6 ft 6 in (2 m). Value Long Term and jetSet: 11 ft 9 in (3.6 m).

EV

EV charging

Parkade: two Level 2 stalls on each P1/P2/P3 plus one DC fast charger on P1. Value Long Term: 10 Level 2 stalls. jetSet charging is by request and not guaranteed.

P1

Parkade P1

P1 is hourly parking with a 4-hour maximum. Do not use it for a multi-day trip just because it is closest.

Accessible travel

Wheelchair, curbside, hidden-disability and family support at YVR

2026–2029 plan current

YVR released a new 2026–2029 Accessibility Plan in June 2026. For travel day, separate responsibilities: YVR Curbside Assistance handles curb/Canada Line to public terminal areas, airlines handle boarding/gate/aircraft mobility support, and CATSA handles screening accommodations.

Curbside Assistance: exact meeting points

JourneyPublished pointNearby reference
DomesticNear Curbside Door 14Check-in counters 25–40
InternationalNear Curbside Door 6Check-in counters 150–199
United StatesNear Curbside Door 3Check-in counters 253–298
South TerminalMain curbside areaBetween shuttle and taxi stands

Assistance can be requested on arrival; YVR encourages pre-arranging up to 48 hours ahead through the 24-hour Customer Call Centre at 604-207-7077 or TTY/TDD 604-207-7070.

SUN

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

Free Sunflower lanyards or stickers are available from Customer Care/Information counters in the Main and South terminals. The program signals that a traveler may need extra patience or help; it does not provide expedited security.

AIRA

Aira visual interpretation

YVR provides Aira support for travelers who are blind or have low vision. Use YVR’s current accessibility directory for connection instructions.

AIR

Airline wheelchair service

Request gate, boarding, deplaning and aircraft mobility assistance from your airline, ideally at least 48 hours ahead, and reconfirm at check-in.

Quiet spaces, nursing and adult-size changing

  • Quiet — DomesticAfter security near B28 and C40, Level 3.
  • Quiet — InternationalAfter security near D67 Level 4 and D71 Level 3.
  • Quiet — U.S.After security near E85, Level 3.
  • Nursing podsPost-security B28, C41 and E77.
  • Nursery roomsPre-security U.S. Departures L3; post-security D67; South Terminal L2 by request.
  • Adult change table — pre-securityU.S. Departures Level 3 across from check-in 276.
  • Adult change tables — post-securityNear B14, C52/D52, D72, E87 and International Arrivals Level 4.
  • Changing Places washroomPier D between gates 58 and 62; includes height-adjustable adult bench and tracking hoist. Bring your own sling.
Official PDF toolkit

I CAN Fly with YVR: rehearse the airport journey before travel

YVR and Canucks Autism Network created an I CAN Fly resource kit for autistic and neurodivergent travelers and families. This is more useful than a generic terminal map when the difficult part is knowing what happens next.

Step-by-step storybookThe 40-page PDF introduces check-in, baggage drop, security, finding the gate, boarding, aircraft sounds, the flight and baggage claim using simple visual expectations.
Interactive checklistUse the companion checklist to mark off each airport routine and reduce uncertainty before and during the trip.
Simplified journey mapDomestic arrivals are shown as airplane → baggage claim. International/U.S. arrivals add customs/immigration before baggage claim.
Departure flowCanada/international: check-in → bag drop → security → gate. U.S. departures add U.S. customs/immigration between security and the gate.
Important: the I CAN Fly map is a sensory/travel-rehearsal aid, not a gate-navigation map. For actual gates, stores or security locations, use YVR’s live interactive terminal map.
Baggage and lost-property routing

Missing bag, lost item or storage: contact the right place at YVR

ProblemCorrect first contactWhat to do
Checked bag missing/delayedOperating airlineUse airline baggage tracing/claim process
Item left on aircraftOperating airlineAircraft cabin property stays with airline
Item lost in terminalYVR Lost & FoundFile the airport’s free terminal-item report
Item lost in taxi/busTransport providerYVR Lost & Found does not control provider property
Need temporary storageCDS BaggageCounters are in Domestic and International Arrivals Level 2

New 2026 baggage screens tell you whether to keep waiting

YVR upgraded its Baggage Information Display System in June 2026. Arrival screens can now show a countdown to bag delivery and the current stage—such as unloading, processing or delivered. When the display says the last bag has arrived and yours is missing, stop waiting at the carousel and go to the operating airline’s baggage desk.

YVR Lost & Found: exact location, retention and scam warning

The office is at U.S. Departures Level 3, across from check-in counter 280 beside the Nursery, currently 09:00–17:00 daily. YVR holds found items for up to 30 days. Filing a terminal lost-item report is free—YVR specifically warns about scams that ask for a filing fee.

Travel with animals

Pets at YVR: leash, carrier and relief-area rules

YVR allows pets in the terminal when they are safely managed. A pet must be fully contained in a carrier or secured on a non-retractable leash no longer than 4 ft (1.2 m). Emotional-support and therapy animals follow the airport’s pet rules unless they independently qualify as certified service animals.

FOOD

Food/play areas

Pets must be fully enclosed in a kennel in food courts and children’s play areas.

CBSA

Canada Customs hall

Pets must remain in carriers until you exit the Canada Customs & Immigration Hall.

MOVE

Escalators & walkways

Pets are not permitted on escalators or moving walkways unless carried or secured in a kennel.

Pet/service-animal relief locations

  • Before securityOutside International Arrivals at Chester Johnson Park; outside South Terminal north entrance.
  • Domestic A/BAcross from the play area, before Starbucks.
  • Domestic CAcross from Gate C29, beside the washroom alcove.
  • International DAcross from D72 and another location between gates 58 and 62.
  • International ArrivalsLevel 4 corridor and overflow-queue area.
  • U.S. E PierNear E76/E77.
  • South TerminalGate G1–2 near the vending machines.
Inside the terminal

Wi-Fi, lounges, hotel and practical layover services

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi

YVR provides free passenger Wi-Fi. Confirm the current official network name from airport signage rather than joining a similarly named public network.

HOTEL

Fairmont Vancouver Airport

The on-site Fairmont is connected to the terminal on the International side, Level 3 before security—useful for overnight stays or long layovers without a hotel shuttle.

HELP

24-hour Customer Care

YVR lists 12 Customer Care counters and multilingual Language Line support. Look for blue-jacket staff and Green Coat volunteers.

LOUNGE

Plaza Premium

YVR currently lists Plaza Premium locations around B17, C29, D67 and E88. Access rules and hours vary by location.

INTL

International lounges

International-side options include airline/alliance lounges such as SkyTeam and Cathay Pacific in D gates. Confirm current operator/access before walking to a lounge.

OPEN

What is open now?

Restaurant, shop and lounge hours vary by day and flight schedule. Use YVR’s current service directory instead of an annual hardcoded list.

2026 operations

South Runway night maintenance: dates that remain after August 10

Schedule checked Aug. 10, 2026

YVR schedules selected overnight closures of South Runway 08R/26L for maintenance. Unless otherwise noted, work is planned from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. local time; landings and takeoffs shift to North Runway 08L/26R.

August15, 22, 29
September5, 12, 19, 26
October3, 10, 17, 24
November7, 21
December5, 19
StatusDates are subject to change and extra maintenance may be added.
Passenger impact: a scheduled runway closure is not the same as an airport closure. Check your airline and YVR flight status for the individual flight; the most noticeable effect may be changed runway use, taxi patterns or aircraft noise.
Code history without folklore

What does YVR mean, and why is Vancouver’s airport code YVR?

YVR is the airport’s assigned IATA designator—the three-letter code used on airline bookings, baggage tags and passenger flight records. CYVR is the ICAO identifier used in operational aviation contexts.

Many web pages offer neat letter-by-letter explanations for Canadian “Y” codes. YVR’s official passenger/history pages do not publish a definitive expansion of the letters, so this guide does not invent one. The safe traveler takeaway is simply: YVR = Vancouver International Airport.

Why the airport name and physical city are different

Vancouver International Airport serves Vancouver and Metro Vancouver but is physically on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia. YVR’s history says the Sea Island airport opened in 1931 and became Vancouver International Airport in 1947 as scheduled international service expanded.

Official traveler video

Watch how to get from YVR to downtown on the Canada Line

YVR embeds a Canada Line traveler video on its official public-transportation page. Watch it before a first visit to see the airport-to-train route, then use current TransLink alerts and fares on travel day.

VideoObject schema is intentionally omitted because the canonical YouTube upload date/duration were not independently verified in this audit. The visible embed is still useful without inventing structured-data fields.

Before leaving for the airport

YVR travel-day checklist

Contact and help

Vancouver International Airport contact information

YVR

Airport Customer Care

604-207-7077
24-hour airport information and curbside-assistance coordination.

TTY

TTY / TDD

604-207-7070
Accessibility communication line listed by YVR.

PARK

Parking Office

604-276-7739
Published office phone; YVR lists weekday office hours for parking questions.

Flight-specific problem? For check-in, baggage, rebooking, missed connections, aircraft items or wheelchair-to-gate service, contact the operating airline, not the airport’s general customer-care line.
Travel-day answers

Vancouver Airport FAQs for code, connections and travel day

What is the Vancouver airport code?
The IATA code for Vancouver International Airport is YVR. Its ICAO identifier is CYVR.
Where is YVR airport located?
YVR is on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada. It serves Vancouver and Metro Vancouver but is not physically in downtown Vancouver.
What is the full name of YVR?
YVR is Vancouver International Airport.
Does YVR stand for specific words?
YVR is the assigned IATA airport designator. YVR’s official passenger/history pages do not publish a definitive letter-by-letter expansion, so travelers should treat YVR simply as the code for Vancouver International Airport.
Is YXX the same airport as YVR?
No. YVR is Vancouver International Airport in Richmond. YXX is Abbotsford International Airport at 30440 Liberator Ave in Abbotsford, a separate airport.
What is YVR’s official address?
YVR’s street/courier address is 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Link Building, L5, Richmond, BC, Canada V7B 0A4.
How early should I arrive at YVR?
YVR recommends at least two hours before domestic departures and at least three hours before U.S. or international departures. Add more time for baggage, accessibility support, South Terminal transfers or an unfamiliar itinerary.
Which gates are domestic, international and U.S. at YVR?
YVR’s Main Terminal maps group A/B/C with Canada operations, D with international operations and E with U.S. transborder operations. Gate assignments can change, so use the live flight record.
Can I use any domestic YVR security checkpoint for A, B or C gates?
ABC South provides access to A, B and C gates. ABC North also serves A, B and C but its access is oriented to trusted/priority passengers and travelers with wheelchairs or strollers. Follow current airport signage.
What is YVR Security Express?
It is an expedited-access program for eligible airline-priority passengers and certain other qualifying guests. YVR lists dedicated validation at ABC North, ABC South and D, with manual validation at the E checkpoint.
What is Checkpoint 3 at YVR?
Checkpoint 3 is on Link Level 4 for eligible international-to-domestic connecting passengers only. YVR currently lists it as open 06:00–16:00 daily.
Does YVR have U.S. preclearance?
Yes. U.S.-bound travelers generally complete U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance at YVR before boarding, allowing most to arrive in the U.S. like a domestic passenger for border-processing purposes.
Does YVR use CBSA eGates for Canadian arrivals?
YVR is currently listed by CBSA as a primary inspection kiosk airport. CBSA’s current eGate list names Toronto Pearson Terminal 1, not YVR.
Is ArriveCAN required to arrive at YVR?
The current Advance Declaration feature in ArriveCAN is optional. Eligible travelers can prepare customs and immigration information up to 72 hours before arrival, then certify it at the airport kiosk.
Can I connect through YVR without collecting checked bags?
Sometimes. It depends on origin, destination, airline participation, baggage tagging and special circumstances. Follow YVR connection signs and the operating airline’s instructions rather than assuming bags always transfer automatically.
Can pets or firearms use the dedicated YVR connection facility?
YVR’s international-arrival connection guidance routes travelers with pets or firearms away from certain dedicated connection facilities, so they should expect the normal border/landside process unless directed otherwise.
How do I get to YVR South Terminal?
Use the free A1 South Terminal courtesy shuttle from Level 3 at the Main Terminal or use Bus 412 from Bridgeport Station. South Terminal is not a practical walk from the Main Terminal.
What are the current summer South Terminal shuttle hours?
The May 1–September 30 PDF lists first departures at 05:25 from Main International, 05:30 from Main Domestic, 05:45 from South Terminal and 05:50 from the Floatplane Dock; last departures are 21:25, 21:30, 21:45 and 21:50 respectively.
How much is the YVR Airport AddFare in 2026?
TransLink increased the YVR Airport AddFare to $6.50 on July 1, 2026 for applicable trips starting at Sea Island stations and traveling beyond Sea Island. Travel among the Sea Island stations remains free.
How long is the Canada Line from YVR to downtown Vancouver?
YVR says the Canada Line reaches downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes under normal service. Check TransLink alerts on travel day.
Where do Uber and Lyft pick up at YVR?
Authorized ride-app pickup is at International Arrivals Level 2, Domestic Arrivals Level 2 and the South Terminal. Wait until baggage is collected before requesting the ride.
Where should a driver wait for an arriving passenger?
Use the Cellphone Waiting Area on Aviation Avenue across from jetSet. YVR provides up to 30 minutes of complimentary waiting with free Wi-Fi.
What are YVR parking rates in 2026?
Current published base rates include Terminal Parkade $67.75 per day, jetSet $36 per day, Value Long Term $31 per day and Gateway Valet $67.75 per day plus a one-time $20 valet fee. Taxes and online quotes can change the final amount.
Does YVR charge parking taxes?
Yes. YVR states that paid parking in Metro Vancouver is subject to 29% Parking Sales Tax plus 5% GST, with GST calculated on the parking fee plus the Parking Sales Tax.
Does YVR have support for hidden disabilities and neurodivergent travelers?
Yes. YVR offers free Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards/stickers at Customer Care counters and provides I CAN Fly storybook, checklist, map and training resources for autistic and neurodivergent travelers.
Where are adult-size changing facilities at YVR?
Adult dimension change tables are available before security in U.S. Departures and after security at several Domestic, International and U.S. locations. A Changing Places washroom is post-security in Pier D between gates 58 and 62.
What should I do if my checked bag does not arrive?
Watch YVR’s upgraded baggage-information screens. If the display says the last bag has arrived and yours is missing, contact the operating airline’s baggage desk rather than YVR Lost & Found.
Where is YVR Lost and Found?
YVR Lost & Found is in U.S. Departures Level 3 across from check-in counter 280 beside the Nursery, currently 09:00–17:00 daily. Terminal-item reports are free and found items are held for up to 30 days.
What are YVR’s rules for pets in the terminal?
Pets must be in a carrier or on a non-retractable leash no longer than 4 ft (1.2 m). They must be kenneled in food courts and play areas and remain in carriers in the Canada Customs and Immigration Hall until exit.
Does YVR have an airport hotel?
Yes. Fairmont Vancouver Airport is connected to the Main Terminal on the International side, Level 3 before security.
Does the 2026 South Runway maintenance schedule mean YVR closes at night?
No. On selected maintenance nights, South Runway 08R/26L closes and flights shift to the North Runway. Check your airline and YVR flight status for the specific flight.
Verification & update policy

Official sources and PDFs audited for this YVR guide

Current operational links are placed after the explanation they support. The article does not label static values as “live”; flights, parking capacity, security waits and construction must be rechecked with the controlling official source.

Vancouver Airport AuthorityTerminal maps, security, Airport South, pickup, parking, accessibility, baggage, pet policy, customer care and runway maintenance.
2026 YVR Parking Flowchart PDFAudited for lot decision logic, rates, terminal distance and the jetSet PDF/live-page discrepancy.
South Terminal Summer Schedule PDFAudited for the May 1–September 30 first/last departures and extra-service pattern.
I CAN Fly PDF toolkitStorybook, checklist and two-page simplified arrival/departure journey map reviewed and converted into traveler-help sections.
TransLinkCurrent July 1, 2026 YVR Airport AddFare and Sea Island transfer rules.
CBSA & U.S. CBPCanada arrival kiosks/Advance Declaration and U.S. preclearance.
Abbotsford International AirportOfficial YXX identity, address and location used to resolve YVR-vs-YXX confusion.
Google SERP competitor auditCode-only competitors were used to identify gaps, not copied. Their thin IATA/ICAO/coordinates pages are expanded here into real traveler decisions.
Internal-link verification: airport-guides.org post-sitemap.xml, sitemap_index.xml and wp-sitemap.xml could not be reliably retrieved in this audit, and indexed searches did not surface verifiable post URLs. No guessed internal article links were added.