Canada: Flight disruptions likely at Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, B.C., as of Nov. 20 after runway closure extended /update 1

Flight disruptions are likely at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in Richmond, British Columbia after authorities extended the closure of the north runway following a cargo plane overshooting it early on Nov. 19; officials stated the runway would be closed for several days. While flight operations have continued on the unaffected runway since the incident, YVR officials continue to warn of potential disruptions to flight schedules. Additionally, airport officials reported that roughly 5 percent of arriving and departing flights were delayed on Nov. 19, and none were canceled.

Authorities have not provided a timeframe for when service on the north runway will resume. Once the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) releases the site, airport authorities can work toward recovery. Even after the runway reopens, lingering disruptions are possible as airlines work to reposition aircraft and manage passenger backlogs. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on specific flight statuses.