Keewaywin Airport (KEW)

Keewaywin Airport (IATA: KEW, ICAO: CPV8) is a small public-use airport that serves as an essential lifeline for the remote Oji-Cree community of Keewaywin First Nation in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. It is not a destination for mainstream tourism but a critical piece of infrastructure, providing the fly-in community with year-round access to essential supplies, medical services, mail, and passenger transport. Located approximately 1.5 kilometers southwest of the community, the airport is the primary link to the rest of the province, connecting residents to larger regional centers.

Owned and operated by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, the airport is part of a provincial network designed to support isolated northern communities. Its significance lies in offering reliable transportation that overcomes the challenges of the region's geography, replacing a historic reliance on seasonal floatplanes and winter ice roads. Operations at Keewaywin Airport are exclusively domestic, consisting of scheduled and charter flights. The primary carrier serving the community is Wasaya Airways, which provides regular passenger and freight services connecting Keewaywin to hubs like Sioux Lookout (YXL) and Thunder Bay (YQT). Passenger volume is modest and comprised almost entirely of local residents, government employees, and service providers visiting the community.

The facilities at Keewaywin Airport are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of its users. The airport consists of a single gravel runway and a small air terminal building. This building provides travelers with fundamental services, including a waiting area, heating, and washrooms. Visitors should be aware that there are no commercial amenities available on-site; the airport does not have restaurants, cafes, retail shops, or car rental services. The focus is purely on facilitating safe and efficient air transport.

For those traveling through Keewaywin Airport, planning is crucial. It is advisable to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before a scheduled departure. All ground transportation between the airport and the community must be arranged in advance, as there are no taxis or public transit options available upon arrival. Flights in this region are frequently subject to delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, especially during the winter months. Therefore, travelers making connections, typically through Sioux Lookout, should build significant flexibility into their itineraries. Given the absence of on-site food or drink services, carrying personal snacks and a water bottle is recommended.