Vancouver airport faces weekend flight delays due to Nav Canada staffing issues. Passengers urged to check with airlines before arriving.
Flight Delays Disrupt Weekend Travel at YVR
VANCOUVER — June 30, 2025 — Travellers at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) continued facing significant flight delays this weekend, with operational challenges at Nav Canada, the national air traffic control provider, identified as the primary cause.
Cause of Delays Traced to Nav Canada Staffing
Nav Canada confirmed on Sunday that ongoing staffing shortages are contributing to widespread air traffic flow restrictions at YVR and other Canadian airports. A spokesperson for the organization said delays can result from various factors, including weather, infrastructure maintenance, and surges in demand — but current personnel shortages are particularly acute.
Extent of Disruptions at Vancouver Airport
On Saturday alone, YVR experienced 186 delayed flights, with 28 additional delays reported by early Sunday afternoon, according to airport spokesperson Reilly Whittaker. An active advisory remains posted on yvr.ca, warning passengers about ongoing disruptions. U.S. and Canadian customs extended operating hours until 2 a.m. Sunday to assist in managing backlogs, and several airport concessions also stayed open late to accommodate delayed travellers.
Measures to Support Travellers and Minimize Impact
YVR has deployed additional staff across terminals to assist passengers with rebooking and general information. Travellers are being advised to monitor flight statuses closely and to contact their airlines directly for rebooking options and connecting flight arrangements. “Safety remains our top priority as we work to reduce delays,” Nav Canada said in an official statement.
Nav Canada’s Efforts Toward Long-Term Staffing Solutions
Nav Canada has hired over 450 new personnel since September 2023, including 230 air traffic controllers, and currently has over 500 individuals in training nationwide. However, the path to becoming a fully certified air traffic controller is lengthy — typically 24 to 36 months — involving classroom instruction, simulation, and hands-on experience.
Outlook for Canada’s Aviation Sector
Despite the current constraints, Nav Canada emphasized that staffing improvements are progressing across the country. “We are seeing encouraging signs in many regions, and we are committed to expanding our capacity without compromising safety,” the organization said.
For now, travellers are urged to plan ahead, expect potential delays, and arrive at the airport with patience as efforts continue to stabilize the system.
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