Blairmore (Forestry) Heliport

The closure was not due to a specific event like an accident or economic failure. Instead, it was an administrative and operational decision by the Alberta government's forestry branch (now Alberta Wildfire). Such heliports are often closed or relocated based on changing operational needs, wildfire suppression strategies, or the consolidation of aviation assets at more modern or better-equipped facilities, such as the nearby Crowsnest Pass/Pincher Creek Airport (CZPC). The heliport was likely deemed surplus to requirements.

The physical site of the former heliport still exists as a cleared, flat, grassy area on the side of a hill just north of the community of Blairmore. It is accessible via a dirt or gravel service road. The site is no longer maintained as an official aviation facility and has no markings, lighting, or services. It has effectively reverted to undeveloped Crown land. While the clearing remains, and could theoretically be used as an ad-hoc emergency landing zone, it holds no official status and is not charted for aviation purposes.

The Blairmore (Forestry) Heliport was a government-use facility with local, functional importance. Its primary purpose was to support the activities of the Alberta Forest Service in the rugged and heavily forested Crowsnest Pass region. When active, it served as a forward staging area for helicopters engaged in:

- **Wildfire Suppression:** Transporting initial attack crews, slinging equipment, and supporting water-bombing operations with helicopters using buckets.
- **Reconnaissance and Surveying:** Conducting forest health surveys, fire patrols, and mapping.
- **Logistical Support:** Moving personnel and supplies for government operations in remote areas of the surrounding mountains.

It was a critical piece of infrastructure for emergency response and natural resource management in the area but was never intended for public or commercial use.

There are no known plans or prospects to reopen the Blairmore (Forestry) Heliport as an official, designated facility. The operational needs that it once served are now fulfilled by other regional assets and flexible staging tactics used by Alberta Wildfire. Re-establishing an official heliport at this location would require a significant and renewed strategic need to be identified by the provincial government, which is considered highly unlikely.