Tsayta Lake Water Aerodrome

Economic reasons. The aerodrome's existence was directly tied to the Kemess South Mine, a large open-pit copper and gold mine. When the mine depleted its ore and ceased operations around 2011, transitioning to a 'care and maintenance' status, the primary need for the aerodrome vanished. Consequently, it was de-registered with Transport Canada and officially closed.

The site is no longer a registered or maintained water aerodrome. There is no official aviation infrastructure (docks, buoys, windsock, communication services) present. The lake itself remains accessible and may be used on an unofficial, 'at-your-own-risk' basis by private pilots for recreational purposes like fishing, hunting, or accessing the backcountry. The surrounding area is remote wilderness, with the former Kemess Mine site remaining on long-term care and maintenance.

The aerodrome, officially CAT9, was a vital transportation link for the remote Kemess South Mine, which operated from 1998 to 2011. It was used exclusively for float-equipped aircraft (like the De Havilland Beaver, Otter, and various Cessna models) to transport mine personnel, contractors, executives, and time-sensitive supplies between the mine site and larger regional hubs such as Prince George and Smithers. The facility was operated by the mine's owner, Northgate Minerals. The alternate name, 'Lhda Koh', is from the Sekani language, acknowledging the location within the traditional territory of the Tsay Keh Dene Nation.

There is a significant prospect for reopening, but it is entirely contingent on the future of mining in the area. Centerra Gold is currently advancing the 'Kemess Underground Project,' a proposal to build a new underground mine near the old site. If this project receives final approval and moves into the construction and operation phases, it is highly probable that the Tsayta Lake Water Aerodrome (CAT9) would be re-established and re-registered to provide essential floatplane access for the new operation.