Fort Providence Water Aerodrome

The closure was primarily due to economic reasons and shifting transportation infrastructure. The development and improvement of the nearby land-based Fort Providence Airport (CYJP) provided a more reliable, all-weather alternative for air travel. Furthermore, the general decline in the necessity of scheduled floatplane services for community supply, coupled with improved road access (culminating in the 2012 opening of the Deh Cho Bridge), made a dedicated, registered water aerodrome redundant.

The physical site of the former aerodrome is simply the Mackenzie River adjacent to the town of Fort Providence. There is no remaining dedicated infrastructure such as a terminal or specific aerodrome docks. The shoreline has boat launches and docks for local recreational and personal watercraft. While the river is a public waterway and floatplanes can still technically land and take off from the area, it is no longer a registered, maintained, or serviced aerodrome.

Historically, the Fort Providence Water Aerodrome was a vital hub for bush flying in the region. Located on the Mackenzie River, it served as a base for floatplanes and seaplanes which were essential for connecting the community to remote areas. Operations included: transporting mail, food, and supplies to remote camps and lodges; supporting mineral and resource exploration crews; and flying tourists, fishermen, and hunters into the vast wilderness of the Northwest Territories. It was an integral part of the transportation network that opened up and sustained the North before the widespread construction of permanent runways and all-season roads.

There are no known plans or prospects to reopen or re-register an official water aerodrome at Fort Providence. The community's transportation needs are adequately met by the Fort Providence Airport (CYJP) and the Mackenzie Highway. The demand for a dedicated water aerodrome is considered insufficient to warrant its re-establishment.