Aéroport de La Grande Riviere (YGL)
La Grande Rivière Airport (IATA: YGL, ICAO: CYGL) is a pivotal regional airport located in the province of Quebec, Canada. Serving the remote community of Radisson, situated near the expansive La Grande River, this airport plays a crucial role in connecting this northern region with the rest of the country. Established to facilitate transportation for the development of the James Bay hydroelectric project in the 1970s, La Grande Rivière Airport has evolved to become a critical hub for residents, workers, and tourists visiting the region.
Positioned approximately 30 kilometers from Radisson, the airport offers essential services for both passenger and cargo flights. Despite its remote location, the airport ensures year-round accessibility to the area, providing vital links for the community and supporting economic activities. Designated primarily as a regional airport, YGL handles a modest but steady flow of traffic, reflecting its importance to the local population.
La Grande Rivière Airport accommodates several thousand passengers annually, with its operations often being closely tied to seasonal fluctuations and the demands of the hydroelectric industry. The airport hosts flights from a handful of airlines, chiefly regional operators, which maintain regular connections to larger hubs such as Montreal and Quebec City. This connectivity underscores the airport's role in bridging the geographical divide and supporting the socio-economic fabric of Northern Quebec.
As a modest yet essential aviation facility, La Grande Rivière Airport continues to serve as a lifeline for Radisson and surrounding areas, ensuring the seamless movement of people and goods in one of Canada’s most remote regions.