Imagine standing on the vast land of Canada's Northwest Territories, with the icy wind brushing against your face. Fort Smith Airport (YSM) shines like a jewel embedded in the tundra, connecting this remote region to the outside world. More than just an airport, it serves as a bridge to the unknown and a hub of opportunity. But what makes this airport unique, and what stories does it hold?
1. Airport Overview
Fort Smith Airport, located in the Northwest Territories, is a medium-sized airport that plays a vital role in the region. Below are its key details:
- Airport Name: Fort Smith Airport
- Location: Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, Canada
- Airport Type: Medium
- IATA Code: YSM
- ICAO Code: CYSM
- Latitude: 60.0203018
- Longitude: -111.961998
- Time Zone: America/Yellowknife (GMT -6:00)
As a critical transportation hub, Fort Smith Airport provides essential air services to local residents and visitors, while also serving as an important transit point for northern Canada.
2. Real-Time Weather Information
For flight safety, staying updated on weather conditions is crucial. While full METAR data requires a premium account, partial information is available:
- Weather Station ID: CYSM
- Observation Time: 2025-09-02 02:00:00 AM
Pilots and travelers are advised to check official weather sources before departure for the latest updates.
3. Runway Data
The airport features two runways with varying lengths and surface types to accommodate different aircraft:
| Runway Number | Length (ft) | Width (ft) | Surface Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1,800 | 100 | COM (Composite) |
| 2 | 6,000 | 200 | ASP (Asphalt) |
Runway 2, the longer of the two, is suitable for larger aircraft, while Runway 1 serves smaller planes and general aviation.
4. Communication Frequencies
Radio communication is essential for flight safety. Below are the airport's key frequencies:
| Type | Description | Frequency (MHz) |
|---|---|---|
| A/D | Yellowknife Radio | 123.55 |
| ATF | Airport Radio | 122.2 |
5. Flight Destinations
Fort Smith Airport connects to several key destinations in the Northwest Territories, all operated by Northwestern Air:
| Destination | IATA Code | Airline |
|---|---|---|
| Edmonton International | YEG | Northwestern Air |
| Hay River/Merlyn Carter | YHY | Northwestern Air |
| Fort Chipewyan | YPY | Northwestern Air |
| Yellowknife | YZF | Northwestern Air |
6. Additional Information
NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen): Pilots should review NOTAMs for critical flight updates. Full access requires a premium account.
Membership Services: Premium accounts offer additional features, such as complete METAR and NOTAMs data.
7. Conclusion
Fort Smith Airport is a vital link for Canada's Northwest Territories, supporting local communities and regional development. Its strategic location, infrastructure, and flight services make it an indispensable asset for travelers and pilots alike. As the region grows, the airport will continue to play a key role in connecting northern Canada to the wider world.