Salluit Airport (YZG)

Salluit Airport operates from a small but essential terminal building designed to withstand the harsh Arctic climate while serving one of Nunavik's most remote Inuit communities. Located at 62°N latitude, 10 kilometers inland from Hudson Strait, this facility represents the sole aviation link connecting approximately 1,400 residents to the outside world. The modest single-story terminal building features robust Arctic construction with reinforced foundations addressing permafrost challenges, triple-glazed windows to withstand extreme temperatures, and emergency backup systems essential for winter operations.

The terminal accommodates Air Inuit's scheduled services using DHC-6 Twin Otter and Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft, with basic but adequate passenger amenities including heated waiting areas, restrooms, and baggage handling facilities. As the only airline serving Salluit, Air Inuit maintains a local station with check-in counter and cargo handling capabilities within the terminal. The building includes essential communication equipment connecting to Kuujjuaq's regional operations center and Montreal headquarters, ensuring coordinated operations across Nunavik's aviation network.

Recent infrastructure improvements completed in 2024 included significant runway repairs and drainage system upgrades as part of Quebec's $90 million investment in seven Nunavik airports, specifically addressing the challenging gravel runway conditions that have affected Air Inuit operations. The terminal houses weather monitoring equipment crucial for operations in this fog-prone location where Hudson Strait marine conditions frequently impact visibility and flight schedules.

Operational facilities within the terminal reflect the community's isolation, including cargo storage areas for essential supplies, medical evacuation staging capabilities, and emergency services coordination. During polar night periods from November through January, the terminal relies entirely on artificial lighting and heated passenger areas. The building design emphasizes functionality over comfort, with minimal commercial services but critical life-support systems ensuring safe operations in one of Canada's most challenging aviation environments. Ground transportation from the terminal involves snowmobiles during winter months and ATVs during brief summer periods, reflecting the community's adaptation to Arctic conditions.