Travelers at Vancouver International Airport are facing ongoing flight delays and disruptions due to staffing shortages at Nav Canada, the agency that manages air traffic control across Canada 🇨🇦. These problems began before the busy Canada Day weekend and have continued into August 2025, affecting thousands of passengers and causing frustration for airlines, airport staff, and travelers alike.
The most severe delays hit during the Canada Day holiday period, June 28–29, 2025, when Vancouver International Airport (YVR) reported 219 flight delays and 23 cancellations directly linked to the staffing shortages at Nav Canada. Although the situation has improved slightly since then, delays and cancellations remain a regular problem, especially as the airport prepares for more travelers during the summer months.
As of August 1, 2025, YVR continues to experience flight delays caused by the ongoing lack of air traffic controllers. On July 31, 2025, there were delays for 75 arriving flights and nearly two dozen departing flights at the airport. WestJet, one of Canada 🇨🇦’s largest airlines, has issued an advisory warning travelers about possible delays at YVR due to air traffic control staffing shortages. This advisory is in effect from May 31 to September 15, 2025, covering the entire summer travel season.
During peak travel days, YVR has handled up to 88,000 travelers per day, with the capacity to serve as many as 95,000. The high volume of passengers, combined with staffing shortages at Nav Canada, has put extra pressure on airport operations and airline schedules. FlightAware, a flight tracking service, reported 20 cancellations and 29 delays in a single 24-hour period in July, though not all were directly linked to Nav Canada.
| Country/Type | Visa Category | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Travel Advisory | June 28–29, 2025 |
| Canada | Ongoing Delays | As of August 1, 2025 |
| Canada | Advisory Period | May 31 to September 15, 2025 |
| Canada | Peak Travel Days | Up to 88,000 travelers per day |
Nav Canada has acknowledged the staffing shortages and the impact on travelers. Jonathan Bagg, Director of Stakeholder and Industry Relations at Nav Canada, said, “Our team is doing everything it can to ensure aircraft are moving, first and foremost safely, but also efficiently and we regret any impacts to the flying public.” The agency has not provided a clear timeline for when the staffing shortages will be resolved.
YVR has taken steps to support passengers affected by delays. Reena Gacad Kirkpatrick, a spokesperson for the airport, said the airport has extended terminal services, including security, food, and border control, to help stranded travelers. Extra staff have been brought in to assist passengers and keep operations running as smoothly as possible.
Airlines have also responded strongly to the ongoing disruptions. WestJet has demanded immediate solutions and called for federal government intervention, stating that these delays are “outside of airlines’ control” and that passengers are not eligible for compensation under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR). Air Canada has echoed these concerns, highlighting the impact on its network and ongoing talks with Nav Canada to find long-term solutions.
For travelers, the practical effects are clear: delays caused by Nav Canada staffing shortages are considered outside airline control, so passengers are generally not eligible for compensation under the APPR. This has left many travelers frustrated, especially those who have missed connections or faced long waits at the airport.
YVR and its partners have extended services to help passengers cope with delays, including longer hours for security, border, and food services. Airlines are advising passengers to check their flight status frequently and to allow extra time for travel. Delays at YVR have also caused disruptions across airline networks, affecting flights and crews at other Canadian airports.
If you are traveling through Vancouver International Airport during this period, here are some steps you can take to reduce stress and stay informed:
1. Check your flight status regularly. Use your airline’s website and YVR’s online departures and arrivals pages for real-time updates.
2. Arrive at the airport on time, not early. YVR has asked passengers not to arrive earlier than the recommended time to avoid crowding in the terminal.
3. Prepare for delays. Bring essentials such as snacks, chargers, and any needed medications in case you have to wait longer than expected.
4. Contact your airline for help. Both WestJet and Air Canada have dedicated teams to assist travelers affected by disruptions.
5. Monitor travel advisories. Stay updated by checking airline and YVR websites for the latest information.
The staffing shortages at Nav Canada are not a new problem. The agency has faced challenges recruiting and training enough air traffic controllers, especially for complex airspaces like Vancouver. As of June 2023, there were 425 new recruits in training across Canada 🇨🇦, with 70 in the Vancouver region. However, experienced controllers are needed for YVR’s complex operations, and training new staff takes time.
The problem has been made worse by the surge in travel after the pandemic, leading to repeated calls for federal intervention and changes to how air traffic control is managed. Airlines and industry experts warn that unless there are immediate and long-term solutions, delays will continue, especially during busy travel seasons.
Severe delays begin during Canada Day holiday
WestJet advisory issued for possible delays
Delays reported for 75 arriving flights
Ongoing delays continue at YVR
End of advisory period
Nav Canada has focused on keeping flights safe and moving as efficiently as possible, but has not given a clear answer on when the staffing shortages will end. Travel industry analysts point out that YVR’s busy airspace and high number of flights make it especially vulnerable to these kinds of problems, and the effects are felt across the country.
Looking ahead, there is no quick fix in sight. WestJet and other industry observers say that while long-term solutions are being developed, there is no immediate answer expected before the end of the 2025 summer travel season. Airlines and YVR will keep monitoring the situation and updating advisories as needed. With peak travel continuing through September, further delays are possible unless staffing levels improve.
For official updates and the latest information on flight impacts at Vancouver International Airport, travelers can visit the YVR flight status and updates page. This resource provides real-time information and practical tips for managing travel during this challenging period.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the ongoing staffing shortages at Nav Canada have created a ripple effect across the Canadian aviation system, highlighting the need for both immediate action and long-term planning to ensure reliable air travel for everyone.
In summary, Vancouver International Airport continues to face flight delays and disruptions due to ongoing Nav Canada staffing shortages. Passengers should stay informed, follow airline and airport advisories, and prepare for possible delays through at least mid-September 2025. The situation remains fluid, and all travelers are encouraged to check official sources for the latest updates before heading to the airport.
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