Havre-Saint-Pierre Airport

Havre Saint-Pierre Airport serves the small town of Havre-Saint-Pierre on Quebec's north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The airport is a single-runway facility handling regional flights — primarily from Air Liaison — that connect this remote Côte-Nord community to destinations like Sept-Îles, Montréal, and other northern points. With no road access to major urban centers (the nearest city, Sept-Îles, is 215 kilometres southwest along Route 138), the airport is the most reliable link for travellers and essential cargo. The terminal is compact, and the staff are known for their warm welcome, a trait that reflects the broader hospitality of the region.

Getting There

The airport is located about 5 kilometres east of Havre-Saint-Pierre town centre, along Route 138. Driving takes approximately 5 minutes. There is no public transit serving the airport; private vehicle or taxi are the only options. Taxis are available in town, but it is advisable to arrange pickup in advance if you have a flight, especially during off-peak hours. Parking at the airport is free and consists of a small lot directly in front of the terminal. For those arriving by car, the route is well-signed from the town. During winter months, road conditions can be icy, so allow extra time.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Havre Saint-Pierre Airport is a single-storey building with all facilities on one level. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, as is the car park and the toilet. There is no vending machine — pack snacks and drinks before arriving. A notable feature is a Vapona pesticide strip hanging above the main entrance. According to manufacturer warnings, such products are intended for enclosed spaces and extended exposure can be harmful. Its placement over a public doorway is unusual and worth noting for passengers concerned about chemical exposure. The check-in area is small, with a counter for Air Liaison and a waiting area with a few rows of seats. Security screening is minimal, typical of regional airports serving small communities. The atmosphere is calm and personal; staff often greet passengers by name and are happy to answer questions.

Havre Saint-Pierre Airport and Havre-Saint-Pierre

Havre-Saint-Pierre is a town of about 3,500 people, built on fishing and tourism. Its primary draw is the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, a chain of islands known for bizarre limestone monoliths carved by erosion into shapes like giant flowerpots and animals. The park is accessible only by boat or kayak, with tours departing from the town's harbour. Whales — including blue, fin, and humpback — feed in the rich waters of the St. Lawrence estuary from May to October. The town itself has a handful of inns, restaurants serving local seafood (cod, lobster, crab), and a small museum on regional history. The Innu people have inhabited this coast for millennia, and their culture is present in place names and local stories. The airport is more than a transit point: for many visitors, it is the first taste of the remote, wild character of the Côte-Nord. The friendly staff at the airport set the tone for the welcoming community. Without the airport, the region would be far less accessible for tourists and essential supplies, reinforcing its role as a lifeline.

Practical Information

The airport does not operate daily. The busiest times, according to observed patterns, are Monday at 1 pm, Tuesday at 10 pm, Wednesday at 6 pm, and Thursday at 8 am. Check with your airline for exact flight schedules, as these may vary seasonally. The airport phone number is +1 418-538-3507. Parking is free. There is no food or drink available on site, so come prepared. If you are sensitive to pesticides, avoid lingering near the main entrance where the Vapona strip is located. Book flights well in advance in summer, as seats fill quickly with travellers heading to the Mingan Archipelago.