โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Bar River Airport operates basic terminal facilities supporting Springer Aerospace Ltd's private aerodrome operations, requiring prior permission for landings (PPR) obtained through 1-877-603-6633 or 705-822-9463 contact numbers. The terminal building provides essential services for the unique dual land-water operations, coordinating activities on both the terrestrial runways 11/29 and 18/36 plus extensive seaplane operations on Lake George and the Bar River's 2,500-foot water runway canal running parallel to runway 18/36. Located at 593 feet elevation in northern Ontario, the facility maintains competitive advantage through exceptional value proposition offering very reasonable fuel prices with no landing or parking fees.
The terminal accommodates diverse aircraft operations from light planes to Dash-8s, regional jets, and amphibious aircraft utilizing the specialized seaplane ramp where aircraft can taxi up the river from Lake George or be towed between water and terrestrial runways. Springer Aerospace's comprehensive services operate from the terminal complex, including mechanical repair shops, paint facilities, and ground transportation coordination ensuring seamless support for both commercial and private operators. Staff consistently provide assistance with local logistics, accommodation arrangements, and transportation needs essential in this remote northern Ontario location.
Operational coordination from the terminal manages the complex interaction between land and water aircraft operations, with seaplanes able to taxi directly up the Bar River to base facilities or utilize the parallel water runway system. The terminal's basic but functional amenities reflect the facility's focus on practical aviation services rather than passenger comfort, though the exceptional value proposition and comprehensive maintenance capabilities make Bar River a preferred alternative to more expensive regional airports like nearby Sault Ste. Marie for aircraft requiring fuel, maintenance, or overnight services.
๐ Connection Tips
Bar River Airport operates as a private aerodrome managed by Springer Aerospace Ltd, requiring prior permission for landings (PPR required - call 1-877-603-6633). Local amenities in Bar River are limited, so arrange ground transportation and accommodations in advance. The airport's dual land-water capability means seaplane operations may share runway approaches during summer season. Their staff consistently provides transportation coordination, whether arranging local rides or providing direct assistance.
Marie Airport. The facility regularly accommodates everything from light aircraft to Dash-8s, Metros, Hawks, and regional jets without difficulty. The facility features two runways (11/29 and 18/36) plus water operations on Lake George and Bar River, making it unique among northern Ontario airports. For fuel planning, take advantage of their competitive pricing structure which makes Bar River an attractive stop compared to larger regional airports. Summer operations benefit from extended daylight hours, while winter requires careful planning for shorter days and potential icing conditions.
Weather considerations are crucial in this region - monitor conditions closely as Lake Effect snow from nearby Great Lakes can rapidly change airport conditions during winter months. Springer Aerospace offers comprehensive services including mechanical repairs, paint shop facilities, and ground transportation assistance. Located at 593 feet elevation, the airport provides exceptional value with very reasonable fuel prices, no landing fees, and no parking fees, unlike nearby Sault Ste. The facility's proximity to recreational areas makes it popular for fishing and hunting charters during appropriate seasons.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Great Bear Lake Airport (DAS), also identified by its ICAO code CFF4, is a specialized private aviation facility located on the remote shores of Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories, Canada. Situated on the Dease Arm of the lake, the airport is primarily owned and operated by Plummer's Great Bear Lake Lodge, one of the world's premier destinations for trophy lake trout fishing. As a private facility, the airport serves as the exclusive entry point for guests arriving on all-inclusive fly-in adventures, bypassing the need for long and difficult overland travel through the Arctic wilderness.
The airport's physical infrastructure is centered around a single well-maintained gravel runway that measures approximately 1,584 meters (5,200 feet) in length. This substantial runway is capable of accommodating large regional turboprops and specialized bush planes, making it one of the most capable private strips in the northern territories. The airfield is also uniquely positioned to support amphibious operations, frequently serving as a base for Turbine Otter float planes that transport guests to even more remote fishing outposts across the vast expanse of the lake.
While the airport does not feature a traditional public passenger terminal, the 'arrival experience' is seamlessly integrated into the operations of Plummer's Lodge. Arriving guests are typically met on the runway by lodge staff and transported a short distance to the main clubhouse, which functions as the central hub for check-in, dining, and guest services. The lodge facilities provide a high level of comfort in a rugged environment, including a gift shop, internet access, and professional lounge areas, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding Arctic tundra.
Strategically, DAS is an essential node for the high-end tourism industry in the Northwest Territories. It facilitates the transport of specialized technical equipment, fresh gourmet supplies, and international travelers from around the globe. The approach to the runway offers spectacular views of the crystal-clear waters of Great Bear Lake and the surrounding pristine wilderness. Due to its private and remote status, all flight operations must be coordinated directly with the lodge management, and there are no public refueling or maintenance services available for transient aircraft.
๐ Connection Tips
Great Bear Lake Airport (DAS) is a private aviation facility on the remote Dease Arm of Great Bear Lake, Canada. It is primarily operated by Plummerโs Great Bear Lake Lodge, and there are no scheduled public commercial services; all arrivals are part of fly-in fishing and wilderness packages. Your primary connection point will almost always be Yellowknife Airport (YZF), from where the lodge coordinates charters using regional turboprops or bush planes like the Turbine Otter. A critical tip: guests are usually required to arrive in Yellowknife at least one day before their flight to the lodge to account for Arctic weather delays.
Upon landing at the 5,200-foot gravel runway at DAS, you will be met by lodge staff and transported by boat or light vehicle to the clubhouse. There is no public terminal, car rentals, or taxis; all transport is provided by the lodge. For more remote outposts, the airport serves as a base for floatplane transfers. Packing is restricted; use soft-sided duffel bags to fit in small aircraft cargo pods.
Weather is the most significant factor; fog, high winds, and early-season ice can lead to multi-day delays, so building a flexible 'buffer' into your return travel from Yellowknife is essential. While the lodge provides satellite internet, mobile coverage is non-existent at the airstrip. Self-sufficiency for personal needs is required once you leave Yellowknife.
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