Northwest Regional Airport Terrace-Kitimat

World War II origins YXT was originally constructed in 1943 as a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) airbase during World War II. It formed part of Canada's Pacific defence strategy against potential Japanese threats. Post-war civilian use Transferred to the Department of Transport in 1946, the airfield transitioned to civilian use. The industrial development of Kitimat and the construction of the aluminum smelter brought increased demand for regional air transport, leading to infrastructure upgrades, including night-flight lighting systems in 1956. Modernization and local management In 1999, the airport was transferred to the Terrace-Kitimat Airport Society under Canada’s National Airports Policy. == Facilities ==

Runways Northwest Regional Airport features two asphalt runways: • Runway 15/33: • Runway 03/21: Terminal The terminal, renovated and completed in 2018 and in 2024, includes expanded departure and arrivals areas, updated baggage handling systems, and updated parking facilities. Ground transportation The airport is accessible via the Stewart–Cassiar Highway (Highway 37) and offers on-site parking, car rentals, and taxi services. Parking facilities include short-term, long-term, and designated spaces for accessibility. ==Airlines and destinations==

As of December 2024, passenger airlines Air Canada Express, and WestJet Encore operate at Northwest Regional Airport Terrace-Kitimat. ==Passenger and cargo statistics==

Passenger and air traffic YXT has seen significant growth in passenger traffic, particularly when compared to other airports across the country post-COVID-19 pandemic. Based on Statistics Canada's 2024 Airport Activity Survey, Terrace is Canada's 19th busiest airport by total passengers. Cargo operations The airport serves as a vital hub for cargo, supporting industries such as mining, forestry, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) development. == Improvements and investments ==

Infrastructure enhancements • 2018: An $18.5 million terminal expansion improved passenger flow, added new facilities, and modernized baggage handling systems. == Location ==

The airport is situated along the Stewart–Cassiar Highway, approximately south of downtown Terrace and north of Kitimat. == Economic impact ==

Northwest Regional Airport plays a critical role in the economic development of northern British Columbia. It supports regional industries by facilitating the movement of goods and workers, especially for the mining and LNG sectors. == Governance ==

The Terrace-Kitimat Airport Society, a non-profit organization, oversees the management and development of YXT. == Accidents and incidents ==

Northwest Regional Airport Terrace-Kitimat has been the site of several aviation incidents and accidents. These events highlight the challenges of operating in a region with frequently adverse weather conditions, and mountainous terrain. NT Air 405 / PWA 405 On 14 January 1977, a de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter operated by Northern Thunderbird Air, flying as Pacific Western Airlines Flight 405, crashed into a mountain during its approach to runway 32 in a snowstorm. The flight, operating from Prince George to Terrace, was carrying 12 individuals, all of whom died in the crash.), a Swearingen SA227-AC Metro III, was destroyed during a missed approach at Terrace. The aircraft, which was operating a scheduled domestic flight from Vancouver to Terrace, had five passengers and two crew members on board, all of whom were killed. At the time, snow was falling, and the runway was partially cleared, with windrows of snow approximately high along the edges of the cleared area. • Contact with the windrow caused drag on the left landing gear, leading to a runway excursion. == References ==