Pikangikum Airport (YPM)

Pikangikum Airport (IATA: YPM, ICAO: CYPM) is a public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation hub for the Pikangikum First Nation in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. Although the community is now connected by an all-season road, the airport remains an essential link for passenger travel, medical evacuations, cargo transport, and community access, particularly when road conditions are poor. It provides reliable, year-round connectivity to regional centres, playing a critical role in the social and economic well-being of the remote community.

Registered with Transport Canada in 1997, the airport has long been the primary gateway to Pikangikum. Its significance is most evident during regional emergencies, such as the major forest fires in 2019 and 2021, when it served as the primary base for airlifting thousands of residents to safety. This role underscores its importance as a lifeline that extends far beyond routine travel. The airport features a single gravel runway (09/27) that measures 1,067 metres (3,502 feet) in length, accommodating the types of aircraft that typically service remote northern communities.

Located approximately 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) southeast of the main settlement, Pikangikum Airport is accessible via a short drive on a local road. Travelers arriving at the airport typically rely on pre-arranged transportation with community members or local organizations to reach their final destination. There are no formal taxi, shuttle, or public transit services available directly at the airport, so coordinating a ride in advance is essential.

Operations at CYPM consist entirely of domestic flights, connecting Pikangikum with regional hubs such as Sioux Lookout, Red Lake, and Thunder Bay. Major operators include Wasaya Airways and Perimeter Aviation, which provide scheduled passenger and charter services. The airport also handles a significant amount of air cargo and mail. Due to its modest scale, detailed passenger volume statistics are not regularly published.

Facilities at Pikangikum Airport are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of travelers. The airport consists of a small, single-story terminal building that provides a sheltered waiting area and washrooms. There are no restaurants, cafes, retail shops, or car rental agencies on-site. For arriving or departing passengers, it is advisable to bring any necessary food, drinks, or other amenities. Travelers should plan to arrive approximately 60 to 90 minutes before their scheduled departure. Given the potential for weather-related delays, which are common in the region, it is wise to check flight statuses with the airline directly and maintain flexible travel plans.