Sachigo Lake Airport (ZPB)

Sachigo Lake Airport (IATA: ZPB, ICAO: CZPB) is a small public airport located approximately 3 kilometers northeast of the Sachigo Lake First Nation community in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. It serves as an essential, year-round lifeline, providing the remote, fly-in community with vital access to transportation, medical services, and supplies. The airport is a critical piece of infrastructure, connecting residents to regional hubs and the rest of the province, as it is not accessible by a permanent road.

The airport operates as a key node within the network of airfields serving Ontario's remote northern communities. Its primary function has always been to support the well-being and connectivity of the Sachigo Lake First Nation. Located on the north shore of Sachigo Lake, the airport is reached from the community via a local gravel road. Transportation to and from the terminal must be pre-arranged, as there are no public transit, taxi services, or car rental agencies available on-site. Visitors typically coordinate rides with their local contacts or hosts within the community.

Operations at Sachigo Lake Airport consist exclusively of domestic flights. The primary carrier offering scheduled passenger and cargo service is Wasaya Airways, which connects Sachigo Lake with regional centers such as Sioux Lookout and Thunder Bay. These flights provide residents with access to specialized healthcare, education, and government services not available locally. In addition to scheduled passenger traffic, the airport handles charter flights, air ambulance (medevac) services, and essential cargo shipments, including food, mail, and other goods. Passenger volume is modest and primarily consists of local residents and essential service personnel.

The airport’s facilities are basic and functional, designed to meet the fundamental needs of travelers in a remote setting. It features a small terminal building with a waiting area, airline check-in counter, and washrooms. There are no restaurants, shops, or lounges available. Travelers should plan accordingly and bring any necessary snacks, drinks, or reading material with them.

For those traveling through Sachigo Lake Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before a scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and baggage processing. Given the potential for weather-related delays, which can be common in Northern Ontario, travelers making onward connections from larger hubs should allow ample layover time. All ground transportation should be confirmed in advance of arrival or departure to ensure a smooth journey to or from the community.