Whitehorse / Erik Nielsen International Airport

Overview

Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY) serves as the primary air gateway to Canada's Yukon Territory and the city of Whitehorse. Located about 7 kilometres south of downtown Whitehorse, the airport handles a mix of scheduled domestic and international flights, charter services, and general aviation. It is named after Erik Nielsen, a former Canadian Deputy Prime Minister and long-time Yukon Member of Parliament. The airport plays a critical role in connecting the region to southern Canada, Alaska, and international destinations, particularly during the summer tourist season when visitors arrive to explore the Yukon's wilderness and the northern lights. The airport also supports cargo operations, medevac flights, and government services, reflecting its importance as a transportation hub in a remote northern area.

Amenities

The airport provides a range of services to support passenger comfort and accessibility. Key amenities include:

• On-site services: The terminal building houses essential facilities such as check-in counters, baggage claim, and security screening. A small selection of shops and eateries is available for travellers, though options are limited compared to larger airports.
• Wheelchair accessibility: The airport is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets, ensuring ease of movement for passengers with reduced mobility. A changing table is available in the accessible restroom.
• Toilets: Public washrooms are located within the terminal, including accessible facilities.
• Changing table: A baby changing table is provided in one of the accessible toilets, making the airport family-friendly.

Note that the airport does not have a lounge, free Wi-Fi, or extensive retail outlets. Passengers should plan accordingly for longer waits.

Hours

Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is open all days of the week, but not 24 hours. The terminal building typically opens several hours before the first scheduled flight and closes after the last arrival. Peak passenger traffic tends to occur around 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, when several flights arrive and depart simultaneously. Travelers are advised to confirm flight times and check with their airline for the most current schedule, as hours can vary seasonally. The airport's general operating hours are roughly 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but these are subject to change.

Contact Information

• Phone: +1 867-667-8440
• Website: https://yukon.ca/en/driving-and-transportation/erik-nielsen-whitehorse-international-airport
• Address: Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport, 80 Lodestar Rd, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6E6, Canada

The airport is operated by the Government of Yukon's Department of Highways and Public Works. For specific flight information, baggage inquiries, or lost and found, passengers should contact their airline directly. The airport's phone number connects to the administration office, which can assist with general inquiries during business hours.

Transportation and Parking

The airport is accessible by road via the Alaska Highway (Highway 1) and has a dedicated access road. Taxis and ride-sharing services operate from the airport to downtown Whitehorse and other areas. Rental car agencies have desks inside the terminal. Parking is available in a short-term and long-term lot adjacent to the terminal; the parking lot is wheelchair accessible and payment can be made on-site. There is no direct public transit bus service to the airport, but some hotels offer complimentary shuttles.

Regional Role

As the only international airport in the Yukon, Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport serves as a vital link for residents and businesses, as well as a gateway for tourists exploring the northern wilderness. The airport handles flights from carriers like Air North, WestJet, and Air Canada, connecting to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and seasonal routes to destinations such as Frankfurt, Germany (via Condor) and other international points. The airport also supports air ambulance and firefighting aircraft operations, underscoring its role in emergency response and resource management in a vast and remote territory.