Tasiujaq Airport (YTQ)

Tasiujaq Airport (IATA: YTQ, ICAO: CYTQ) is a public airport that serves as a critical lifeline for the remote Inuit village of Tasiujaq in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec, Canada. As the community is not connected to the provincial road network, the airport provides the sole year-round means of transportation for residents, essential services, and visitors. It facilitates the movement of passengers, mail, fresh food, medical supplies, and other vital cargo, making it indispensable to the daily life and well-being of the village. The airport is operated by the Kativik Regional Government.

Established to support the modern settlement of Tasiujaq, the airport is fundamental to the region's infrastructure. It is located approximately 1.9 kilometers south of the village, a short distance that is typically covered by snowmobile in the winter or by all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or truck during the summer months. Access is straightforward, but transportation must be arranged in advance, as there are no formal taxi or public transit services available upon arrival. Travelers usually coordinate pickups with local contacts, outfitters, or accommodation providers.

Flight operations at Tasiujaq Airport are exclusively domestic. Air Inuit is the primary airline, offering scheduled passenger and cargo services that connect Tasiujaq with other communities throughout Nunavik, most notably the regional hub of Kuujjuaq (YVP). From Kuujjuaq, passengers can connect to larger southern cities like Montreal. The airport also accommodates charter flights for government, mining, and tourism purposes. Passenger volume is modest, directly reflecting the small population of the community it serves.

The airport's facilities are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of regional air travel. It consists of a single, small terminal building with a check-in counter, a waiting area, and restrooms. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, shops, or executive lounges. For those traveling from Tasiujaq, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure, as airline check-in and baggage drop-off times are strictly enforced. The weather in Nunavik is highly unpredictable and can cause significant flight delays or cancellations, so visitors should build flexibility into their travel plans and stay informed about their flight status.