Chibougamau/Chapais Airport, also known as Chibougamau-Chapais Airport, is a regional airport located in Chibougamau and Chapais, Quebec, Canada. It serves the surrounding communities and provides crucial air transportation services to residents and businesses in the region. The airport plays a vital role in connecting the remote northern communities to larger urban centers and facilitating economic development in the area.

Chibougamau/Chapais Airport is owned and operated by the Société de développement de la Baie-James (SDBJ), a regional government agency responsible for promoting economic and social development in the James Bay region. The airport is classified as an airport of entry by Nav Canada and is staffed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on a call-out basis. This designation allows the airport to handle international flights and provide customs and immigration services to passengers and cargo.

The airport has a single asphalt runway designated as Runway 07/25, measuring 5,500 feet in length and 100 feet in width. The runway is equipped with various navigational aids, including precision approach path indicators (PAPI), runway edge lights, and a non-directional beacon (NDB) for guidance during landing and takeoff. The airport also features a modern terminal building with passenger facilities, rental car services, and aircraft maintenance services.

Chibougamau/Chapais Airport primarily serves as a hub for regional air carriers, including Air Creebec and PropAir, which operate scheduled flights to destinations such as Montreal, Val-d'Or, and Wemindji. These airlines provide essential air transport services to residents, workers, and tourists traveling to and from the Chibougamau and Chapais region. The airport also serves as a base for private and corporate aircraft, forestry companies, mining exploration companies, and government agencies operating in the area.

The airport plays a crucial role in supporting the regional economy by facilitating the transportation of passengers and cargo, particularly for industries such as mining, forestry, and tourism. The airport's strategic location and connectivity to major cities enable businesses to transport personnel, equipment, and supplies efficiently, contributing to economic growth and development in the region. In particular, the airport supports the mining sector by providing essential air transportation services to remote mining sites and facilitating the export of minerals and resources.

Chibougamau/Chapais Airport also serves as a gateway to the James Bay region, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the area's natural beauty and recreational activities. The airport's proximity to popular outdoor destinations, including national parks, lakes, and hiking trails, make it a convenient starting point for adventure seekers looking to experience the region's wilderness and wildlife.

In conclusion, Chibougamau/Chapais Airport is a critical transportation hub that connects the remote northern communities of Chibougamau and Chapais to the rest of Quebec and beyond. The airport's modern facilities, strategic location, and essential air services make it a vital resource for residents, businesses, and visitors in the region. As the primary gateway to the James Bay region, Chibougamau/Chapais Airport plays a crucial role in supporting economic development, industry, and tourism in the area.