Umiujaq Airport (YUD)

Umiujaq Airport (IATA: YUD, ICAO: CYMU) is the primary air transportation hub for the remote Inuit community of Umiujaq in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec, Canada. As there are no roads connecting Umiujaq to the rest of the provincial network, the airport serves as an essential lifeline, facilitating the movement of residents, essential workers, mail, cargo, and medical services. It is a critical piece of infrastructure that ensures the community's connection to the outside world. The airport is located approximately 3.1 kilometers (1.7 nautical miles) east of the village, a short distance that is typically covered by local taxi services, ATVs, or snowmobiles, depending on the season.

The airport was constructed in conjunction with the founding of the Umiujaq community itself in 1986. The village was established to relocate Inuit families from Kuujjuarapik who were concerned about the impacts of the James Bay Hydroelectric Project. The airport was therefore integral to the settlement's creation and continued viability from its inception. Today, it is operated by the Kativik Regional Government and supports exclusively domestic flights. The primary carrier is Air Inuit, which provides scheduled passenger and cargo services connecting Umiujaq to other Nunavik communities like Kuujjuarapik, Puvirnituq, and Inukjuak. These routes form a "milk run" system that eventually links to larger hubs such as Kuujjuaq or Montreal, often with multiple stops. The airport operates with a single gravel runway suitable for the specialized turboprop aircraft that service the region.

Reflecting its function in a small, remote community, the airport’s facilities are basic and functional. It consists of a small terminal building, known as an aérrogare, which houses a check-in counter, a modest waiting area, and public washrooms. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, or rental car agencies. For those traveling through Umiujaq Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and security procedures. Weather in the Arctic can be unpredictable and frequently causes flight delays or cancellations, so flexibility in travel plans is essential. It is also recommended to arrange any necessary ground transportation to or from the village in advance of arrival.