Kangiqsualujjuaq (Georges River) Airport (XGR)

Kangiqsualujjuaq (Georges River) Airport (IATA: XGR, ICAO: CYLU) serves as the primary and essential air link for the remote Inuit community of Kangiqsualujjuaq in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec. As the village is inaccessible by road from southern Canada, the airport is a critical lifeline, facilitating the transport of passengers, mail, cargo, and medical services, and connecting residents to the rest of the province and country. It is a small, public airport operated by the Kativik Regional Government.

Constructed in 1980 to provide reliable year-round access to the isolated community, the airport has since played a fundamental role in the region's social and economic stability. It is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) southwest of the village, a short distance that makes it easily accessible. Travelers typically reach the airport from the village via a local taxi service, private vehicle, ATV, or snowmobile, depending on the season. Given the close proximity, walking is also a feasible option for those with light luggage.

Airport operations consist exclusively of domestic flights. Air Inuit is the sole airline providing scheduled passenger service, connecting Kangiqsualujjuaq with Kuujjuaq Airport (YVP). Kuujjuaq acts as the regional hub, offering onward flights to Montréal and other communities across Nunavik. In addition to scheduled passenger flights, the airport handles charter services and is a vital point for air cargo, which is essential for supplying the community with food, goods, and equipment.

The facilities at Kangiqsualujjuaq Airport are basic, designed to meet the essential needs of travelers in a remote northern environment. The airport consists of a single, small terminal building which houses an Air Inuit check-in counter, a modest waiting area for departing passengers, and public restrooms. There are no restaurants, cafes, shops, or car rental agencies available at the terminal. Travelers should plan accordingly and bring any necessary snacks, beverages, or reading material with them.

For those traveling through Kangiqsualujjuaq Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to their scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and baggage handling. Transportation to and from the airport should be arranged in advance, either through local accommodations or a taxi service. The weather in Nunavik can be unpredictable and may cause flight delays or cancellations. Therefore, travelers with connecting flights, particularly through Kuujjuaq, are encouraged to build flexibility into their itineraries.