GENERAL AVIATION AT yzf airport
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NWTFA/COPA 108 members share a common interest in supporting improvements of the Yellowknife airport facilities to promote the Northwest Territories as an aviation-friendly destination and to encourage general aviation. The Government of the Northwest Territories collects substantial revenue generated through its new airport improvement fee. NWTFA/COPA 108 believes that a portion of this revenue should support improvements which will encourage the growth of general aviation, including private aircraft used for pleasure and business. We are engaging in ongoing dialogue with airport management to ensure that general aviation is included in plans for development of the airport.
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PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT ON MASTER PLAN FOR YZF AIRPORT
May 19, 2022
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is in the process of finalizing a 20-Year Master Plan for the YZF airport. Although the draft Master Plan has not been made public, the GNWT is seeking public input on 2 options identified for future development at the airport. These options envision the construction of a new terminal building and associated airside development either near the junction of the existing runways or on the west side of the airport with access from Deh Cho Boulevard. Neither option would appear to infringe on general aviation operations on the KILO apron.
Public input can be provided through completion of an online survey open until June 12, 2022. The survey does not allow for comment on the draft Master Plan but does present an opportunity to voice opinions that might encourage the GNWT to consider general aviation in their planning efforts and in future use of the existing terminal building. NWTFA/COPA 108 encourages members and pilots to complete the survey in a manner that highlights the interest of general aviation. The more voices behind general aviation, the stronger our message becomes.
May 19, 2022
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is in the process of finalizing a 20-Year Master Plan for the YZF airport. Although the draft Master Plan has not been made public, the GNWT is seeking public input on 2 options identified for future development at the airport. These options envision the construction of a new terminal building and associated airside development either near the junction of the existing runways or on the west side of the airport with access from Deh Cho Boulevard. Neither option would appear to infringe on general aviation operations on the KILO apron.
Public input can be provided through completion of an online survey open until June 12, 2022. The survey does not allow for comment on the draft Master Plan but does present an opportunity to voice opinions that might encourage the GNWT to consider general aviation in their planning efforts and in future use of the existing terminal building. NWTFA/COPA 108 encourages members and pilots to complete the survey in a manner that highlights the interest of general aviation. The more voices behind general aviation, the stronger our message becomes.
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RESPONSE TO YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
April 15, 2022 NWTFA/COPA 108 followed up with YZF airport management in writing through a memorandum dated April 15, 2022* containing a summary of recent discussions on matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The memorandum contains an analysis and proposed resolution or path forward on each topic. Topics addressed include use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA/COPA 108 is optimistic that some operational issues can be addressed in the near future and that dialogue concerning the development of private hangars can continue once the pending airport master plan has been completed. * access restricted to current NWTFA/COPA Flight 108 members |
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MEETING WITH YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
February 25, 2022
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 met with YZF airport management on February 24, 2022 to discuss various issues relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The primary objective of the meeting was to open constructive dialogue in an effort to foster a positive working relationship. Topics addressed included use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA/COPA 108 will be engaging further with YZF airport management on each of these issues.
February 25, 2022
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 met with YZF airport management on February 24, 2022 to discuss various issues relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The primary objective of the meeting was to open constructive dialogue in an effort to foster a positive working relationship. Topics addressed included use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA/COPA 108 will be engaging further with YZF airport management on each of these issues.
MEMBERSHIP FEEDBACK
December 31, 2021
The improvement of general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport continues to be a key priority for NWTFA/COPA108. Recent engagement with our membership identified escort fees for floatplane launching, storage of float trailers, availability of electrical power on taxiway KILO, and the potential for construction of T-hangars as primary items of interest and concern to members. Representatives of NWTFA/COPA108 will be meeting with the YZF airport manager in early 2022 to open dialogue on these matters.
December 31, 2021
The improvement of general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport continues to be a key priority for NWTFA/COPA108. Recent engagement with our membership identified escort fees for floatplane launching, storage of float trailers, availability of electrical power on taxiway KILO, and the potential for construction of T-hangars as primary items of interest and concern to members. Representatives of NWTFA/COPA108 will be meeting with the YZF airport manager in early 2022 to open dialogue on these matters.
CONCERNS RELATING TO GENERAL AVIATION AT YZF AIRPORT
July 14, 2021
NWTFA/COPA 108 members continue to report various concerns relating to general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport. Issues include escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake, restrictions on use of parking spaces on KILO, and the supply of clickers for the gate providing access to KILO. NWTFA/COPA 108 will attempt to open dialogue with the YZF airport in an effort to take a holistic approach in establishing a better working relationship between airport administration and private pilots.
July 14, 2021
NWTFA/COPA 108 members continue to report various concerns relating to general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport. Issues include escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake, restrictions on use of parking spaces on KILO, and the supply of clickers for the gate providing access to KILO. NWTFA/COPA 108 will attempt to open dialogue with the YZF airport in an effort to take a holistic approach in establishing a better working relationship between airport administration and private pilots.
ESCORT FEES FOR FLOATPLANE LAUNCHING AT LONG LAKE
August 1, 2019
Several NWTFA/COPA 108 members have recently brought forward concerns over fees being levied by the YZF airport for escort of aircraft to/from the Long Lake floatplane dock. This fee has arisen without notice or consultation and without clear criteria for its application. NWTFA/COPA 108 has been advised by the previous airport manager that the fee applies only to commercial aircraft but recent member experience suggests that it is being charged whenever the service involves a commercial operator irrespective of whether the aircraft is owned/operated privately or commercially. NWTFA/COPA 108 will follow up with the current airport manager for clarification.
August 1, 2019
Several NWTFA/COPA 108 members have recently brought forward concerns over fees being levied by the YZF airport for escort of aircraft to/from the Long Lake floatplane dock. This fee has arisen without notice or consultation and without clear criteria for its application. NWTFA/COPA 108 has been advised by the previous airport manager that the fee applies only to commercial aircraft but recent member experience suggests that it is being charged whenever the service involves a commercial operator irrespective of whether the aircraft is owned/operated privately or commercially. NWTFA/COPA 108 will follow up with the current airport manager for clarification.
CHANGE IN MANAGEMENT STAFF AT YZF AIRPORT
February 6, 2019
NWTFA/COPA 108 has become aware of a recent change in management staff at the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 hopes to continue a good working relationship with the YZF airport and will reach out to the new airport manager to open dialogue. General aviation improvements completed to date include a new automatic gate with gate openers available to pilots, gravelled access, and a heated information hut.
February 6, 2019
NWTFA/COPA 108 has become aware of a recent change in management staff at the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 hopes to continue a good working relationship with the YZF airport and will reach out to the new airport manager to open dialogue. General aviation improvements completed to date include a new automatic gate with gate openers available to pilots, gravelled access, and a heated information hut.
IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTED AT YZF AIRPORT
October 23, 2018
Several of the general aviation enhancements discussed with NWTFA/COPA108 have now been implemented by the YZF airport. Parking areas at taxiway KILO have been improved and graded and a new gate has been installed. A small hut has been equipped with a desk and heater and stocked with visitor information to welcome itinerant pilots.
October 23, 2018
Several of the general aviation enhancements discussed with NWTFA/COPA108 have now been implemented by the YZF airport. Parking areas at taxiway KILO have been improved and graded and a new gate has been installed. A small hut has been equipped with a desk and heater and stocked with visitor information to welcome itinerant pilots.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON YELLOWKNIFE AIRPORT MASTER PLAN
April 3, 2018
Creation of the Yellowknife Airport (YZF) Revolving Fund in 2017 is expected to improve the ability to respond to airport user and business needs and position the airport to become an economic driver for the Northwest Territories economy. As a key stakeholder, NWTFA/COPA 108 was invited to participate in stakeholder consultations undertaken by the Government of the Northwest Territories to update the Master Plan for the Yellowknife airport. NWTFA/COPA108 was asked for its views on the opportunities that the YZF airport could provide for its members and the territorial economy and on the infrastructure investments necessary to achieve such progress over the next 20 years.
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 met with consultants from Stantec Consulting Ltd. on April 3, 2018 to discuss existing airport infrastructure and future development potential in the context of general aviation. NWTFA/COPA108 expressed its interest in the establishment of facilities and structures to support general aviation and in the promotion of aviation tourism. Airport land should be made available at reasonable cost to permit the establishment of aviation businesses and general aviation services, such as flight schools and aircraft maintenance, at the YZF airport.
The Stantec consultants advised that further consultation would occur in several months. NWTFA/COPA 108 expressed a desire to remain involved in ongoing dialogue concerning plans for the YZF airport.
April 3, 2018
Creation of the Yellowknife Airport (YZF) Revolving Fund in 2017 is expected to improve the ability to respond to airport user and business needs and position the airport to become an economic driver for the Northwest Territories economy. As a key stakeholder, NWTFA/COPA 108 was invited to participate in stakeholder consultations undertaken by the Government of the Northwest Territories to update the Master Plan for the Yellowknife airport. NWTFA/COPA108 was asked for its views on the opportunities that the YZF airport could provide for its members and the territorial economy and on the infrastructure investments necessary to achieve such progress over the next 20 years.
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 met with consultants from Stantec Consulting Ltd. on April 3, 2018 to discuss existing airport infrastructure and future development potential in the context of general aviation. NWTFA/COPA108 expressed its interest in the establishment of facilities and structures to support general aviation and in the promotion of aviation tourism. Airport land should be made available at reasonable cost to permit the establishment of aviation businesses and general aviation services, such as flight schools and aircraft maintenance, at the YZF airport.
The Stantec consultants advised that further consultation would occur in several months. NWTFA/COPA 108 expressed a desire to remain involved in ongoing dialogue concerning plans for the YZF airport.
PRELIMINARY MEETING WITH AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
January 15, 2018
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 recently met with the YZF airport manager to discuss future plans for improvements of significance to general aviation. The airport manager was receptive to our input and offered various suggestions for short and long term improvements. General aviation parking will be relocated to the area adjacent to taxiway KILO, which has recently been reclassified as an apron. Improvements are planned for tiedowns, snow removal and electrical power.
This meeting resulted in positive signals that our ideas will be considered by the GNWT in its development of new airport infrastructure and policy. NWTFA/COPA 108 will be following up with the airport manager over the next few months to implement short-term improvements and elaborate on longer-term ideas and priorities.
January 15, 2018
Representatives of NWTFA/COPA 108 recently met with the YZF airport manager to discuss future plans for improvements of significance to general aviation. The airport manager was receptive to our input and offered various suggestions for short and long term improvements. General aviation parking will be relocated to the area adjacent to taxiway KILO, which has recently been reclassified as an apron. Improvements are planned for tiedowns, snow removal and electrical power.
This meeting resulted in positive signals that our ideas will be considered by the GNWT in its development of new airport infrastructure and policy. NWTFA/COPA 108 will be following up with the airport manager over the next few months to implement short-term improvements and elaborate on longer-term ideas and priorities.
RESULTS OF MEMBERSHIP SURVEY
December 5, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 recently completed a survey to obtain input from members respecting priorities for improvement of general aviation facilities at the YZF airport. The survey attracted 27 responses and collected a considerable amount of useful input. Highlights include confirmation that many members do not currently use the airport facilities, membership support for designated parking for itinerant pilots, and interest in creation of communal general aviation and hangar space.
December 5, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 recently completed a survey to obtain input from members respecting priorities for improvement of general aviation facilities at the YZF airport. The survey attracted 27 responses and collected a considerable amount of useful input. Highlights include confirmation that many members do not currently use the airport facilities, membership support for designated parking for itinerant pilots, and interest in creation of communal general aviation and hangar space.
COMMITTEE TO SOLICIT INPUT FROM MEMBERS
September 27, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 has established a committee to solicit input from members for ideas and priorities for general aviation improvements at the YZF airport. Under its terms of reference, the committee will gather recommendations and report to NWTFA/COPA 108 directors but not communicate directly with the GNWT. The objective is to develop a vision and strategy including short and long term goals supported by the membership. All members have a common interest in general aviation and the new airport improvement tax will generate revenue that could fund improvements.
September 27, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 has established a committee to solicit input from members for ideas and priorities for general aviation improvements at the YZF airport. Under its terms of reference, the committee will gather recommendations and report to NWTFA/COPA 108 directors but not communicate directly with the GNWT. The objective is to develop a vision and strategy including short and long term goals supported by the membership. All members have a common interest in general aviation and the new airport improvement tax will generate revenue that could fund improvements.
ENGAGEMENT WITH YZF AIRPORT
August 1, 2017
Recent discussions between NWTFA/COPA 108 and the YZF airport manager confirm an interest in integrating our suggestions and priorities for general aviation improvements into GNWT plans for the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 will need to create a long-term strategy including input from members operating on wheels. Preliminary topics include development of hangar space, improved tie-down options, and better delineation of parking spaces.
August 1, 2017
Recent discussions between NWTFA/COPA 108 and the YZF airport manager confirm an interest in integrating our suggestions and priorities for general aviation improvements into GNWT plans for the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 will need to create a long-term strategy including input from members operating on wheels. Preliminary topics include development of hangar space, improved tie-down options, and better delineation of parking spaces.
MEETING WITH YZF AIRPORT MANAGER
June 28, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 recently met with the YZF airport manager to open discussions respecting desired improvements to general aviation facilities. The parking area remains problematic for nose wheel aircraft although the gravel surface has been tamped down.
NWTFA/COPA 108 will continue to liaise with airport management to address member concerns and seek improvements beneficial to general aviation. The airport manager has been provided with a copy of the COPA National report on Economic Benefit of General Aviation in Canada and expressed interest in learning more about NWTFA/COPA 108 and our priorities.
June 28, 2017
NWTFA/COPA 108 recently met with the YZF airport manager to open discussions respecting desired improvements to general aviation facilities. The parking area remains problematic for nose wheel aircraft although the gravel surface has been tamped down.
NWTFA/COPA 108 will continue to liaise with airport management to address member concerns and seek improvements beneficial to general aviation. The airport manager has been provided with a copy of the COPA National report on Economic Benefit of General Aviation in Canada and expressed interest in learning more about NWTFA/COPA 108 and our priorities.
RELOCATION OF PARKING TO UNSUITABLE LOCATION
April 18, 2017
Concerns have recently been brought to NWTFA/COPA 108 regarding changes to general aviation parking at the YZF airport. In fall 2016, the GNWT instructed owners to relocate their aircraft to assigned parking spots east of the Adlair fence as delineated by cement blocks. Parking had previously been available along taxiway KILO at a fee of $300 per year with pilots being responsible for their own tie-downs. The new area is unsuitable for as airport snow clearing creates frozen banks impeding aircraft access and movement and the coarse gravel base poses risk of propeller damage.
Individual NWTFA/COPA 108 members have been unsuccessful in addressing their concerns with airport management. NWTFA/COPA 108 will seek a meeting with the airport manager in an effort to address the issue in a constructive manner. NWTFA/COPA 108 will also approach COPA National for research on appropriate aerodrome surfaces.
April 18, 2017
Concerns have recently been brought to NWTFA/COPA 108 regarding changes to general aviation parking at the YZF airport. In fall 2016, the GNWT instructed owners to relocate their aircraft to assigned parking spots east of the Adlair fence as delineated by cement blocks. Parking had previously been available along taxiway KILO at a fee of $300 per year with pilots being responsible for their own tie-downs. The new area is unsuitable for as airport snow clearing creates frozen banks impeding aircraft access and movement and the coarse gravel base poses risk of propeller damage.
Individual NWTFA/COPA 108 members have been unsuccessful in addressing their concerns with airport management. NWTFA/COPA 108 will seek a meeting with the airport manager in an effort to address the issue in a constructive manner. NWTFA/COPA 108 will also approach COPA National for research on appropriate aerodrome surfaces.
PROCEDURES FOR FLOATPLANE LAUNCHING AT LONG LAKE
May 1, 2014
In consultation with the Department of Transportation of the GNWT, NWTFA/COPA 108 has developed procedures for the movement of floatplanes between Long Lake and the Yellowknife airport property. Both parties recognize the potential risk inherent in moving aircraft across the highway between the lake and the airport gate. Adherence to the agreed procedures assists in coordination between pilots and airport fire hall personnel and helps to ensure the safe movement of aircraft.
May 1, 2014
In consultation with the Department of Transportation of the GNWT, NWTFA/COPA 108 has developed procedures for the movement of floatplanes between Long Lake and the Yellowknife airport property. Both parties recognize the potential risk inherent in moving aircraft across the highway between the lake and the airport gate. Adherence to the agreed procedures assists in coordination between pilots and airport fire hall personnel and helps to ensure the safe movement of aircraft.
PARKING FEES IMPLEMENTED AT YZF AIRPORT
October 1, 2011
New fee regulations adopted by the GNWT Department of Transportation have resulted in the implementation of fees for parking of aircraft at the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 objected to the application of daily parking fees for long-term users and was able to negotiate a compromise allowing for annual parking licenses. Aircraft owners parking their aircraft on airport property will be required to apply for annual or monthly licenses at rates of $279 per year or $50 per month. NWTFA/COPA 108 will continue to lobby for dedicated general aviation parking with amenities such as tie-downs, access to electricity and suitable access to a parking area.
October 1, 2011
New fee regulations adopted by the GNWT Department of Transportation have resulted in the implementation of fees for parking of aircraft at the YZF airport. NWTFA/COPA 108 objected to the application of daily parking fees for long-term users and was able to negotiate a compromise allowing for annual parking licenses. Aircraft owners parking their aircraft on airport property will be required to apply for annual or monthly licenses at rates of $279 per year or $50 per month. NWTFA/COPA 108 will continue to lobby for dedicated general aviation parking with amenities such as tie-downs, access to electricity and suitable access to a parking area.
