Iqaluit airport (YFB)

Iqaluit Airport (IATA: YFB, ICAO: CYFB) is a critical aviation hub located in Iqaluit, the capital city of the Nunavut territory in Canada. Positioned on Baffin Island, this airport plays a pivotal role in connecting one of the most remote and northern regions of the country to other parts of Canada and the world. It serves as both a domestic and regional airport, offering essential aviation services in an area where air travel is indispensable due to limited road infrastructure.

The airport's history dates back to World War II when it was built as part of the Crimson Route, a series of airfields used to ferry aircraft from North America to Europe. Since then, Iqaluit Airport has evolved significantly, becoming a modern facility that supports the growing needs of the Arctic community.

Strategically important, Iqaluit Airport serves as a hub for crucial medevac flights, cargo transport, and passenger services. It facilitates approximately 15,000 aircraft movements annually, connecting Iqaluit with major Canadian cities like Ottawa, Montreal, and Yellowknife through scheduled services operated by several airlines, including First Air and Canadian North. The passenger numbers have been steadily rising, with the airport handling around 120,000 passengers each year, reflecting its importance in regional connectivity and economic development.

Nestled amidst the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape, Iqaluit Airport not only supports local residents and industries but also plays a vital role in fostering tourism, research, and cultural exchange in this unique polar region. Thus, Iqaluit Airport stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity required to maintain vital transport links in one of the world's most challenging environments.