Flughafen Stephenville Int'l (YJT)
Stephenville International Airport (IATA: YJT / ICAO: CYJT) is a pivotal aviation hub located in the town of Stephenville, situated in the western region of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. With its origins dating back to World War II, the airport was initially constructed by the United States Army Air Forces in 1941 as Ernest Harmon Air Force Base. Its strategic significance during the war period transitioned into a commercial purpose post-war, serving as a critical node in transatlantic flight operations.
Today, Stephenville International operates as a public airport managed by the Stephenville Airport Corporation. Despite its designation as an international airport, it fulfills primarily regional and domestic needs, providing vital air connectivity for the surrounding communities. The airport's runway, once designed to accommodate large military aircraft, now supports a diverse range of aircraft operations, enhancing its utility and adaptability.
In terms of operations, Stephenville International is equipped to handle a moderate volume of flights and passengers. Though it does not witness the dense traffic typical of larger urban airports, it maintains a steady flow of private, charter, and scheduled commercial flights. The number of passengers varies annually, usually reflecting the seasonal tourism patterns of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Key airlines operating at CYJT offer essential services that tie the region to broader national and international destinations, ensuring that Stephenville remains accessible and connected. The airport stands as a testament to historical resilience and contemporary utility, serving both as a remembrance of its storied past and as a cornerstone of regional air travel in eastern Canada.