Yellowknife Airport, also known as Yellowknife International Airport, is a public airport located in Yellowknife, the capital city of the Northwest Territories in Canada. It is the busiest airport in the Northwest Territories, serving as a crucial gateway for passengers traveling to and from the region. The airport is situated approximately 3.5 miles south of downtown Yellowknife and covers an area of 1,081 acres.

Yellowknife Airport first opened in 1944 as a small airfield used by the Canadian military during World War II. Over the years, the airport has undergone significant expansions and renovations to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region. Today, it features a modern terminal building equipped with essential amenities and services for passengers.

The airport is served by several airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, Canadian North, and First Air, offering domestic flights to major cities such as Edmonton, Calgary, and Ottawa. Additionally, Yellowknife Airport caters to charter flights, cargo services, and medevac flights, playing a vital role in connecting remote communities in the Northwest Territories to the rest of Canada.

Yellowknife Airport is equipped with two runways: Runway 09/27, measuring 7,650 feet in length, and Runway 15/33, measuring 5,000 feet in length. These runways handle a significant volume of air traffic, including commercial flights, private jets, and government aircraft. The airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing essential air services to residents and visitors alike.

The terminal building at Yellowknife Airport is designed to accommodate the needs of travelers, offering a range of amenities and services. Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, as well as various dining options, retail stores, and rental car services. The airport also features baggage handling facilities, check-in counters, and airline lounges for passenger convenience.

In recent years, Yellowknife Airport has implemented several initiatives to enhance its environmental sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint. The airport has implemented energy-efficient lighting and heating systems, as well as recycling programs to minimize waste. Additionally, the airport has invested in sustainable practices such as water conservation and wildlife management to protect the surrounding environment.

Yellowknife Airport plays a vital role in supporting the economy of the Northwest Territories by facilitating tourism, trade, and resource development in the region. The airport serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the natural beauty of the Northwest Territories, including its pristine lakes, forests, and wildlife. It also serves as a hub for transporting goods and supplies to remote communities in the north, supporting industries such as mining, oil and gas, and fishing.

Overall, Yellowknife Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the Northwest Territories to the rest of Canada and the world, providing essential air services to residents, businesses, and travelers. With its modern facilities, sustainable practices, and commitment to customer service, Yellowknife Airport is a key transportation hub in the northern region, serving as a gateway to the wonders of the Canadian Arctic.