โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
25
minutes
Domestic โ International
55
minutes
Interline Connections
85
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Former military and corporate airport; limited operations.
๐ Connection Tips
Downsview Airport permanently closed as of April 2024 following 95 years of aviation operations dating from 1929. Originally de Havilland Airfield, it served as RCAF Station Downsview during WWII and later CFB Toronto until 1996. From 1994-2024, Bombardier Aerospace operated the facility as their primary Q400 manufacturing and flight test center, with the final aircraft departing March 23, 2024. The 370-acre site required prior permission and security clearance through Bombardier Emergency Services for all visiting aircraft. No commercial passenger service ever operated - access was restricted to aerospace manufacturing, flight testing, and authorized general aviation with advance coordination. Northcrest Developments now controls the site for redevelopment into North America's largest urban community project, valued at $22 billion over 30 years. The transformation will create 28 million square feet of residential space, 7 million square feet of commercial property, and 74 acres of parks by 2054. Construction begins 2026 with net-zero carbon targets by 2040. For current aviation needs in Toronto area, passengers must use Pearson International (YYZ) for commercial flights, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) for regional services, or Buttonville (YKZ) for general aviation until its closure. The YZD identifier has been repurposed by Northcrest as the new community brand. Historical significance includes testing sites for famous Canadian aircraft including Beaver, Twin Otter, Dash 8, Global Express, and Global 5000. The airport's closure marks the end of Toronto's aerospace manufacturing era at this location.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Conklin (Leismer) Airport (CFM), also identified by its ICAO code CET2, is a registered aerodrome located in Alberta, Canada. This airport plays a crucial role in supporting the region's oil and gas industry, particularly for operations related to the Leismer oil sands project. Primarily serving charter and private flights, it facilitates the transport of personnel and supplies to and from remote work sites, contributing significantly to the logistical network of Northern Alberta's energy sector.
As a small airport without scheduled commercial service, CFM does not feature a traditional passenger terminal with extensive retail or dining options. However, it does operate a Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) named Leismer Aerodrome Ltd., which provides essential amenities and services. These FBO services typically include a pilot lounge, a flight planning area, and potentially basic comforts like free coffee. While detailed specifics on passenger facilities are limited, the focus is on efficient processing and support for general and corporate aviation movements.
Operational aspects at Conklin (Leismer) Airport include a paved runway, designated 09/27, measuring 5251 feet in length, equipped with an Omni-Directional Approach Lighting System. Fuel (JA-1) is available on-site. The airport operates under Prior Permission Required (PPR) conditions, meaning users must obtain permission before landing. Communication is managed via an Aerodrome Traffic Frequency (ATF) / UNICOM, and a Peripheral Station (PAL) Edmonton Center frequency. These operational details highlight its role as a specialized aviation facility catering to the specific needs of the region's industrial activities.
๐ Connection Tips
Conklin (Leismer) Airport (CFM), officially identified as CET2, is a private aviation facility dedicated to supporting the Athabasca Oil Corporationโs Leismer project in Northern Alberta. Because this is a private aerodrome, "connecting" here requires specialized coordination through corporate logistics departments rather than standard commercial booking channels. The primary air links for project personnel are through Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG). Charter flights are typically operated by regional specialists such as North Cariboo Air and Summit Air. If you are transferring from a commercial airline at Calgary or Edmonton to a Leismer-bound charter, it is essential to allow a minimum buffer of 3 hours. Most charter operations depart from the Executive Flight Centre or private hangars (FBOs) rather than the main passenger terminals. This often requires a shuttle transfer between facilities and the manual retrieval and re-checking of baggage. Be mindful that charter flights to Leismer have strict weight limits, typically ranging from 20 to 40 pounds, which is significantly less than standard commercial allowances. Additionally, the airport operates under Prior Permission Required (PPR) conditions, and all passengers must be confirmed on the official manifest before arrival. Upon landing at the Leismer terminal, onward ground transport to the oil sands project sites is exclusively provided by pre-arranged corporate shuttles. During the winter months, always monitor regional weather reports, as heavy snow and icing conditions in Northern Alberta can frequently ground light aircraft and regional turboprops.
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