Gander Water Aerodrome

The primary reason for closure was military decommissioning. The base's strategic purpose as a home for anti-submarine patrol aircraft ended with the conclusion of World War II. Subsequent civilian operations were not substantial enough to sustain it as a registered aerodrome, leading to its eventual closure for economic reasons and lack of demand.

The site, located on the northern shore of Gander Lake, is now a public recreational area. While the original military hangars and barracks have been removed, a large concrete ramp extending into the lake, a remnant of the original base, still exists. This ramp is now used as a public boat launch. The area is known locally as the 'Old Seaplane Base' and is popular for recreational boating and fishing. The Gander Rod and Gun Club is also located nearby.

The Gander Water Aerodrome was of immense historical importance during World War II as a key Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) facility. It was the operating base for long-range amphibious aircraft, most notably the Consolidated PBY Canso (flown by squadrons such as No. 116 Squadron RCAF). These aircraft flew crucial anti-submarine patrols deep into the North Atlantic, protecting vital Allied convoys from German U-boats during the Battle of the Atlantic. The water base was an integral part of the massive Gander military complex, which included the adjacent land-based airport. After the war, the base was used by civilian charter and bush pilot operations for access to the interior of Newfoundland for fishing, hunting, forestry, and mineral exploration.

There are no known plans or prospects to reopen a registered water aerodrome at this location. The demand for a formal, registered facility is considered non-existent, especially given the proximity of the Gander International Airport (CYQX). While Gander Lake can still be used by private floatplanes in accordance with Canadian aviation regulations, there is no commercial or logistical driver for re-establishing an official aerodrome.