Fort Hope Airport (YFH)

Fort Hope Airport (IATA: YFH, ICAO: CYFH) is a small public airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the remote Eabametoong First Nation community, also known as Fort Hope, in Northern Ontario, Canada. As the community is accessible only by air or winter roads, the airport is an essential piece of infrastructure, facilitating the movement of people, mail, food, and medical supplies year-round. It is a critical hub for residents, essential service workers, and business operations in the region, connecting the isolated community to larger centres.

Operated by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, the airport is situated adjacent to the community on the shores of Eabamet Lake. Access from the town to the airport is typically made on foot or by local vehicles such as trucks, ATVs, or snowmobiles, as there are no formal taxi or public transit services available. The airport features a single gravel runway and serves a modest volume of passengers, consisting primarily of community members and individuals travelling for work, healthcare, or administrative purposes.

Flight operations at CYFH are exclusively domestic and are handled by regional airlines. Scheduled passenger and cargo services are provided by carriers such as Wasaya Airways and North Star Air, which offer connections to larger regional hubs, most notably Thunder Bay (YQT) and Sioux Lookout (YXL). From these hubs, travelers can connect to the national and international air travel network. The airport is also a crucial base for charter flights and air ambulance services, which provide emergency medical evacuations.

Facilities at Fort Hope Airport are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of its users. A small, single-level terminal building provides a sheltered waiting area and washrooms for departing and arriving passengers. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, shops, or rental car agencies. For those travelling through Fort Hope, it is advisable to confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as services can be impacted by severe weather, especially during the winter months. Any ground transportation within the community should be arranged in advance of arrival.