Kangirsuk Airport (YKG)

Kangirsuk Airport (IATA: YKG, ICAO: CYAS) is a small public airport that serves as a vital lifeline for the Inuit community of Kangirsuk, located in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec, Canada. As there are no roads connecting the village to the rest of the province, the airport is the primary means for transporting passengers, cargo, mail, and providing critical medical evacuation services. Situated approximately 1.9 kilometers southeast of the village, the airport is easily accessible via a short taxi or private vehicle ride. During winter months, snowmobiles are also a common mode of transport for residents traveling to and from their flights.

Opened in 1980 and operated by the Kativik Regional Government, the airport is an essential piece of infrastructure supporting the region's remote communities. All operations at Kangirsuk Airport are domestic. The primary airline serving the airport is Air Inuit, which provides scheduled passenger and cargo services connecting Kangirsuk with other Nunavik communities, most notably the regional hub of Kuujjuaq (YVP). From Kuujjuaq, travelers can then connect to larger southern cities like Montreal. The flight schedules are designed to serve the needs of the local population of just over 500 people, as well as visiting professionals and government workers.

The airport facilities are functional and reflect its remote, northern setting. A single, modest terminal building houses a check-in counter, a waiting area with seating, and basic washrooms. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, or executive lounges. Services are limited, and it is advisable to bring any necessary snacks, drinks, or entertainment. For those traveling from Kangirsuk, arriving at least 90 minutes prior to departure is recommended to allow sufficient time for check-in and baggage processing. Given the high potential for weather-related delays or cancellations in the Arctic, it is crucial for passengers to confirm their flight status with Air Inuit before heading to the airport. When planning connecting flights, travelers should build significant buffer time into their itineraries to account for potential disruptions.