GENERAL AVIATION AT yzf airport
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NWTFA members share a common interest in supporting improvements to the Yellowknife airport facilities to promote the Northwest Territories as an aviation-friendly destination and to encourage general aviation. The Government of the Northwest Territories ("GNWT") collects substantial revenue generated through its new airport improvement fee. NWTFA believes that a portion of this revenue should support improvements which will encourage the growth of general aviation, including private aircraft used for pleasure and business. We are engaging in ongoing dialogue with airport management to ensure that general aviation is included in plans for development of the airport.
LETTER TO STANDING COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT
October 31, 2024 NWTFA has recently submitted a letter to the GNWT Standing Committee on Economic Development and Environment in an effort to highlight the social and economic benefits of general aviation and to advocate for its inclusion in planning for the future of the YZF airport. The letter addresses the important contributions of general aviation to aviation safety and training, tourism, business and recreational activity, search and rescue, and more. It also discusses specific issues which hinder the growth and viability of general aviation at the YZF airport, such as the unavailability of 100LL avgas and the imposition of unreasonable fees for water to airside floatplane movements. Standing Committee has indicated a willingness to consider the matters raised and report back to NWTFA. * access restricted to current NWTFA members "YZF NOT A GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT"
September 19, 2024 In response to recent lobbying efforts relating to the availability of 100LL avgas at the YZF airport, the GNWT Minister of Infrastructure has advised in a letter to the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association* that "YZF wouldn't be considered a general aviation airport but rather a significant commercial airport". Since this view is entirely dismissive of the substantial social and economic value of general aviation, and offers little hope for improvement of facilities and services for general aviation at the YZF airport, NWTFA is now considering avenues for further political discussion and advocacy. * access restricted to current NWTFA members YZF AIRPORT CONSIDERING PROVISION OF TIE-DOWNS
July 31, 2024 YZF airport management has recently reached out to NWTFA with a proposed plan for the installation of tie-downs for use by aircraft parking on Apron IV (locally known as KILO). NWTFA will be submitting comments on the proposed design and utility of the tie-downs. NWTFA is excited to learn that, after years of advocacy stressing the need for tie-downs, YZF airport management is finally planning to extend this common amenity to the general aviation community. |
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MEETING BETWEEN NWTFA AND MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURE
April 10, 2024
Representatives of NWTFA met with Caroline Wawzonek, GWNT Minister of Infrastructure, on April 10, 2024 to present a vision for the future of general aviation at the YZF airport. Information contained in NWTFA's vision document* formed the basis of discussion with the Minister. The meeting was generally positive and NWTFA is looking forward to learning the GNWT's own vision as they implement their new airport master plan.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
April 10, 2024
Representatives of NWTFA met with Caroline Wawzonek, GWNT Minister of Infrastructure, on April 10, 2024 to present a vision for the future of general aviation at the YZF airport. Information contained in NWTFA's vision document* formed the basis of discussion with the Minister. The meeting was generally positive and NWTFA is looking forward to learning the GNWT's own vision as they implement their new airport master plan.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
ANNUAL MEETING BETWEEN NWTFA AND YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
April 5, 2024
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on April 5, 2024 for our annual meeting to discuss matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. Topics addressed included a review of wheel plane traffic during the 2023 Midnight Sun Fly In, an update on status of the YZF airport master plan and supporting strategic plan, improvement of the YZF airport website, provision of tie-downs and electricity, authorization of the floatplane escort fee, and aircraft parking on Apron IV (locally known as KILO). Details of the discussion on each topic can be found in the meeting summary* prepared by NWTFA.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
April 5, 2024
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on April 5, 2024 for our annual meeting to discuss matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. Topics addressed included a review of wheel plane traffic during the 2023 Midnight Sun Fly In, an update on status of the YZF airport master plan and supporting strategic plan, improvement of the YZF airport website, provision of tie-downs and electricity, authorization of the floatplane escort fee, and aircraft parking on Apron IV (locally known as KILO). Details of the discussion on each topic can be found in the meeting summary* prepared by NWTFA.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
ANNUAL MEETING BETWEEN NWTFA AND YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
March 16, 2023
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on March 16, 2023 for our annual meeting to discuss matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. Topics addressed included an update on preparation of the YZF airport master plan, floatplane launching procedures at Long Lake, promoting YZF as an aviation-friendly airport, the new visitor floatplane dock, improvement of the YZF airport website, provision of tie-downs, and aircraft and vehicle parking on KILO. Details of the discussion on each topic can be found in the meeting summary* prepared by NWTFA.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
March 16, 2023
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on March 16, 2023 for our annual meeting to discuss matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. Topics addressed included an update on preparation of the YZF airport master plan, floatplane launching procedures at Long Lake, promoting YZF as an aviation-friendly airport, the new visitor floatplane dock, improvement of the YZF airport website, provision of tie-downs, and aircraft and vehicle parking on KILO. Details of the discussion on each topic can be found in the meeting summary* prepared by NWTFA.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
RESPONSE LETTER FROM GNWT MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURE
January 24, 2023
On January 19, 2023, NWTFA finally received a written response from the GNWT Minister of Infrastructure* in reply to the NWTFA letter of October 7, 2022. NWTFA is disappointed in the response as it indicates that the Minister fails to recognize the economic value and potential of general aviation as highlighted in our letter. Instead of providing assurance that general aviation will be considered in redevelopment of the airport, the Minister chose to recite a list of existing amenities for private pilots, thereby giving the impression that the Department has no interest in promoting YZF as a general aviation friendly airport. Notwithstanding this discouraging response, NWTFA will continue to promote Yellowknife as an aviation tourism destination and advocate politically on behalf of general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
January 24, 2023
On January 19, 2023, NWTFA finally received a written response from the GNWT Minister of Infrastructure* in reply to the NWTFA letter of October 7, 2022. NWTFA is disappointed in the response as it indicates that the Minister fails to recognize the economic value and potential of general aviation as highlighted in our letter. Instead of providing assurance that general aviation will be considered in redevelopment of the airport, the Minister chose to recite a list of existing amenities for private pilots, thereby giving the impression that the Department has no interest in promoting YZF as a general aviation friendly airport. Notwithstanding this discouraging response, NWTFA will continue to promote Yellowknife as an aviation tourism destination and advocate politically on behalf of general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
WAITING FOR RESPONSE FROM GNWT MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURE
November 17, 2022
The GNWT Department of Infrastructure recently acknowledged receipt of the NWTFA letter dated October 7, 2022 and confirmed that "general aviation will be a consideration in any airport redesign". A formal reply to the letter is expected in due course. NWTFA is following up regularly to push for response.
November 17, 2022
The GNWT Department of Infrastructure recently acknowledged receipt of the NWTFA letter dated October 7, 2022 and confirmed that "general aviation will be a consideration in any airport redesign". A formal reply to the letter is expected in due course. NWTFA is following up regularly to push for response.
LETTER TO GNWT MINISTER OF INFRASTRUCTURE: STRIVING FOR A GENERAL AVIATION FRIENDLY YZF AIRPORT
October 7, 2022
NWTFA recently submitted a letter to the Minister of Infrastructure for the Northwest Territories* encouraging the consideration of general aviation in plans for future development of the YZF airport. The letter highlights the many economic and social benefits derived from general aviation and expresses our hope that the YZF airport will someday be a facility that we can be proud to promote to pilots interested in visiting our region. The letter was copied to all members of the NWT legislative assembly and other interested parties in an effort to draw attention to the value of general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
October 7, 2022
NWTFA recently submitted a letter to the Minister of Infrastructure for the Northwest Territories* encouraging the consideration of general aviation in plans for future development of the YZF airport. The letter highlights the many economic and social benefits derived from general aviation and expresses our hope that the YZF airport will someday be a facility that we can be proud to promote to pilots interested in visiting our region. The letter was copied to all members of the NWT legislative assembly and other interested parties in an effort to draw attention to the value of general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
DIALOGUE WITH YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
August 30, 2022
YZF airport management has finally provided NWTFA with a response to the memorandum dated April 15, 2022* summarizing discussions on matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The response from YZF airport management* addresses use of parking stalls for storage of floatplane trailers, provision of electricity to parking stalls, potential development of private hangars, and provision of tie-downs for aircraft on KILO. While it appears that progress is possible on operational matters such as trailer storage and tie-downs, YZF airport management is unwilling to consider any future improvements to general aviation facilities under after finalization of its pending master plan. Since the limited information available suggests that the master plan will not directly consider general aviation in future development of the YZF airport, NWTFA will be reaching out to current and future territorial politicians to encourage tangible planning to establish YZF as an airport friendly to general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
August 30, 2022
YZF airport management has finally provided NWTFA with a response to the memorandum dated April 15, 2022* summarizing discussions on matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The response from YZF airport management* addresses use of parking stalls for storage of floatplane trailers, provision of electricity to parking stalls, potential development of private hangars, and provision of tie-downs for aircraft on KILO. While it appears that progress is possible on operational matters such as trailer storage and tie-downs, YZF airport management is unwilling to consider any future improvements to general aviation facilities under after finalization of its pending master plan. Since the limited information available suggests that the master plan will not directly consider general aviation in future development of the YZF airport, NWTFA will be reaching out to current and future territorial politicians to encourage tangible planning to establish YZF as an airport friendly to general aviation.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
YZF PARKING STALL LICENCES
August 16, 2022
NWTFA is pleased to report that YZF airport management has recently agreed to several amendments to provisions in its licence for general aircraft parking stalls on KILO. YZF airport management will now permit a float trailer to be stored in a parking stall if the licensee requests such permission when renewing a licence. The provision relating to removal of aircraft remaining after termination of a licence has been amended to refer to the powers contained in the Public Airports Act. The provision setting out methods of giving notice to licensees has been amended to eliminate notice by facsimile.
YZF airport management has confirmed that these amendments will be incorporated in all licences going forward. Members should review their licences carefully upon renewal to ensure that the revised provisions* are included.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
August 16, 2022
NWTFA is pleased to report that YZF airport management has recently agreed to several amendments to provisions in its licence for general aircraft parking stalls on KILO. YZF airport management will now permit a float trailer to be stored in a parking stall if the licensee requests such permission when renewing a licence. The provision relating to removal of aircraft remaining after termination of a licence has been amended to refer to the powers contained in the Public Airports Act. The provision setting out methods of giving notice to licensees has been amended to eliminate notice by facsimile.
YZF airport management has confirmed that these amendments will be incorporated in all licences going forward. Members should review their licences carefully upon renewal to ensure that the revised provisions* are included.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
FLOATPLANE ESCORT BETWEEN YZF AIRPORT AND LONG LAKE
June 1, 2022
NWTFA has just learned that YZF airport management has changed its process for arranging escort of floatplanes between the airport property and Long Lake. YZF airport management is now requiring that paperwork be completed and the escort fee paid at its office in the terminal before fire hall personnel provide escort services. The new process is causing delay and considerable frustration to pilots who are following the established procedures for floatplane launching at Long Lake.
This change was made unilaterally without notice to NWTFA or aircraft owners. NWTFA has submitted written protest to the GNWT Department of Infrastructure requesting that the escort fee be discontinued immediately, refunds be issued for any fees already paid, and the fee not levied again unless properly authorized.
June 1, 2022
NWTFA has just learned that YZF airport management has changed its process for arranging escort of floatplanes between the airport property and Long Lake. YZF airport management is now requiring that paperwork be completed and the escort fee paid at its office in the terminal before fire hall personnel provide escort services. The new process is causing delay and considerable frustration to pilots who are following the established procedures for floatplane launching at Long Lake.
This change was made unilaterally without notice to NWTFA or aircraft owners. NWTFA has submitted written protest to the GNWT Department of Infrastructure requesting that the escort fee be discontinued immediately, refunds be issued for any fees already paid, and the fee not levied again unless properly authorized.
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT ON MASTER PLAN FOR YZF AIRPORT
May 19, 2022
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is in the process of finalizing a 20-Year Master Plan for the YZF airport. Although the draft Master Plan has not been made public, the GNWT is seeking public input on 2 options identified for future development at the airport. These options envision the construction of a new terminal building and associated airside development either near the junction of the existing runways or on the west side of the airport with access from Deh Cho Boulevard. Neither option would appear to infringe on general aviation operations on the KILO apron.
Public input can be provided through completion of an online survey open until June 12, 2022. The survey does not allow for comment on the draft Master Plan but does present an opportunity to voice opinions that might encourage the GNWT to consider general aviation in their planning efforts and in future use of the existing terminal building. NWTFA encourages members and pilots to complete the survey in a manner that highlights the interest of general aviation. The more voices behind general aviation, the stronger our message becomes.
May 19, 2022
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is in the process of finalizing a 20-Year Master Plan for the YZF airport. Although the draft Master Plan has not been made public, the GNWT is seeking public input on 2 options identified for future development at the airport. These options envision the construction of a new terminal building and associated airside development either near the junction of the existing runways or on the west side of the airport with access from Deh Cho Boulevard. Neither option would appear to infringe on general aviation operations on the KILO apron.
Public input can be provided through completion of an online survey open until June 12, 2022. The survey does not allow for comment on the draft Master Plan but does present an opportunity to voice opinions that might encourage the GNWT to consider general aviation in their planning efforts and in future use of the existing terminal building. NWTFA encourages members and pilots to complete the survey in a manner that highlights the interest of general aviation. The more voices behind general aviation, the stronger our message becomes.
RESPONSE TO YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
April 15, 2022
NWTFA followed up with YZF airport management in writing through a memorandum dated April 15, 2022* containing a summary of recent discussions on matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The memorandum contains an analysis and proposed resolution or path forward on each topic. Topics addressed include use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA is optimistic that some operational issues can be addressed in the near future and that dialogue concerning the development of private hangars can continue once the pending airport master plan has been completed.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
April 15, 2022
NWTFA followed up with YZF airport management in writing through a memorandum dated April 15, 2022* containing a summary of recent discussions on matters relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The memorandum contains an analysis and proposed resolution or path forward on each topic. Topics addressed include use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA is optimistic that some operational issues can be addressed in the near future and that dialogue concerning the development of private hangars can continue once the pending airport master plan has been completed.
* access restricted to current NWTFA members
MEETING WITH YZF AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
February 25, 2022
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on February 24, 2022 to discuss various issues relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The primary objective of the meeting was to open constructive dialogue in an effort to foster a positive working relationship. Topics addressed included use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA will be engaging further with YZF airport management on each of these issues.
February 25, 2022
Representatives of NWTFA met with YZF airport management on February 24, 2022 to discuss various issues relating to general aviation facilities and services at the airport. The primary objective of the meeting was to open constructive dialogue in an effort to foster a positive working relationship. Topics addressed included use of parking stalls on KILO, provision of electricity to parking stalls to support winter operations, potential development of private hangars, and escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake. NWTFA will be engaging further with YZF airport management on each of these issues.
MEMBERSHIP FEEDBACK
December 31, 2021
The improvement of general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport continues to be a key priority for NWTFA. Recent engagement with our membership identified escort fees for floatplane launching, storage of float trailers, availability of electrical power on taxiway KILO, and the potential for construction of T-hangars as primary items of interest and concern to members. Representatives of NWTFA will be meeting with the YZF airport manager in early 2022 to open dialogue on these matters.
December 31, 2021
The improvement of general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport continues to be a key priority for NWTFA. Recent engagement with our membership identified escort fees for floatplane launching, storage of float trailers, availability of electrical power on taxiway KILO, and the potential for construction of T-hangars as primary items of interest and concern to members. Representatives of NWTFA will be meeting with the YZF airport manager in early 2022 to open dialogue on these matters.
CONCERNS RELATING TO GENERAL AVIATION AT YZF AIRPORT
July 14, 2021
NWTFA members continue to report various concerns relating to general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport. Issues include escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake, restrictions on use of parking spaces on KILO, and the supply of clickers for the gate providing access to KILO. NWTFA will attempt to open dialogue with the YZF airport in an effort to take a holistic approach in establishing a better working relationship between airport administration and private pilots.
July 14, 2021
NWTFA members continue to report various concerns relating to general aviation facilities and services at the YZF airport. Issues include escort fees for floatplane launching at Long Lake, restrictions on use of parking spaces on KILO, and the supply of clickers for the gate providing access to KILO. NWTFA will attempt to open dialogue with the YZF airport in an effort to take a holistic approach in establishing a better working relationship between airport administration and private pilots.
ESCORT FEES FOR FLOATPLANE LAUNCHING AT LONG LAKE
August 1, 2019
Several NWTFA members have recently brought forward concerns over fees being levied by the YZF airport for escort of aircraft to/from the Long Lake floatplane dock. This fee has arisen without notice or consultation and without clear criteria for its application. NWTFA has been advised by the previous airport manager that the fee applies only to commercial aircraft but recent member experience suggests that it is being charged whenever the service involves a commercial operator irrespective of whether the aircraft is owned/operated privately or commercially. NWTFA will follow up with the current airport manager for clarification.
August 1, 2019
Several NWTFA members have recently brought forward concerns over fees being levied by the YZF airport for escort of aircraft to/from the Long Lake floatplane dock. This fee has arisen without notice or consultation and without clear criteria for its application. NWTFA has been advised by the previous airport manager that the fee applies only to commercial aircraft but recent member experience suggests that it is being charged whenever the service involves a commercial operator irrespective of whether the aircraft is owned/operated privately or commercially. NWTFA will follow up with the current airport manager for clarification.
CHANGE IN MANAGEMENT STAFF AT YZF AIRPORT
February 6, 2019
NWTFA has become aware of a recent change in management staff at the YZF airport. NWTFA hopes to continue a good working relationship with the YZF airport and will reach out to the new airport manager to open dialogue. General aviation improvements completed to date include a new automatic gate with gate openers available to pilots, gravelled access, and a heated information hut.
February 6, 2019
NWTFA has become aware of a recent change in management staff at the YZF airport. NWTFA hopes to continue a good working relationship with the YZF airport and will reach out to the new airport manager to open dialogue. General aviation improvements completed to date include a new automatic gate with gate openers available to pilots, gravelled access, and a heated information hut.
IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTED AT YZF AIRPORT
October 23, 2018
Several of the general aviation enhancements discussed with NWTFA have now been implemented by the YZF airport. Parking areas at taxiway KILO have been improved and graded and a new gate has been installed. A small hut has been equipped with a desk and heater and stocked with visitor information to welcome itinerant pilots.
October 23, 2018
Several of the general aviation enhancements discussed with NWTFA have now been implemented by the YZF airport. Parking areas at taxiway KILO have been improved and graded and a new gate has been installed. A small hut has been equipped with a desk and heater and stocked with visitor information to welcome itinerant pilots.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON YELLOWKNIFE AIRPORT MASTER PLAN
April 3, 2018
Creation of the Yellowknife Airport (YZF) Revolving Fund in 2017 is expected to improve the ability to respond to airport user and business needs and position the airport to become an economic driver for the Northwest Territories economy. As a key stakeholder, NWTFA was invited to participate in stakeholder consultations undertaken by the Government of the Northwest Territories to update the Master Plan for the Yellowknife airport. NWTFA was asked for its views on the opportunities that the YZF airport could provide for its members and the territorial economy and on the infrastructure investments necessary to achieve such progress over the next 20 years.
Representatives of NWTFA met with consultants from Stantec Consulting Ltd. on April 3, 2018 to discuss existing airport infrastructure and future development potential in the context of general aviation. NWTFA expressed its interest in the establishment of facilities and structures to support general aviation and in the promotion of aviation tourism. Airport land should be made available at reasonable cost to permit the establishment of aviation businesses and general aviation services, such as flight schools and aircraft maintenance, at the YZF airport.
The Stantec consultants advised that further consultation would occur in several months. NWTFA expressed a desire to remain involved in ongoing dialogue concerning plans for the YZF airport.
April 3, 2018
Creation of the Yellowknife Airport (YZF) Revolving Fund in 2017 is expected to improve the ability to respond to airport user and business needs and position the airport to become an economic driver for the Northwest Territories economy. As a key stakeholder, NWTFA was invited to participate in stakeholder consultations undertaken by the Government of the Northwest Territories to update the Master Plan for the Yellowknife airport. NWTFA was asked for its views on the opportunities that the YZF airport could provide for its members and the territorial economy and on the infrastructure investments necessary to achieve such progress over the next 20 years.
Representatives of NWTFA met with consultants from Stantec Consulting Ltd. on April 3, 2018 to discuss existing airport infrastructure and future development potential in the context of general aviation. NWTFA expressed its interest in the establishment of facilities and structures to support general aviation and in the promotion of aviation tourism. Airport land should be made available at reasonable cost to permit the establishment of aviation businesses and general aviation services, such as flight schools and aircraft maintenance, at the YZF airport.
The Stantec consultants advised that further consultation would occur in several months. NWTFA expressed a desire to remain involved in ongoing dialogue concerning plans for the YZF airport.
PRELIMINARY MEETING WITH AIRPORT MANAGEMENT
January 15, 2018
Representatives of NWTFA recently met with the YZF airport manager to discuss future plans for improvements of significance to general aviation. The airport manager was receptive to our input and offered various suggestions for short and long term improvements. General aviation parking will be relocated to the area adjacent to taxiway KILO, which has recently been reclassified as an apron. Improvements are planned for tiedowns, snow removal and electrical power.
This meeting resulted in positive signals that our ideas will be considered by the GNWT in its development of new airport infrastructure and policy. NWTFA will be following up with the airport manager over the next few months to implement short-term improvements and elaborate on longer-term ideas and priorities.
January 15, 2018
Representatives of NWTFA recently met with the YZF airport manager to discuss future plans for improvements of significance to general aviation. The airport manager was receptive to our input and offered various suggestions for short and long term improvements. General aviation parking will be relocated to the area adjacent to taxiway KILO, which has recently been reclassified as an apron. Improvements are planned for tiedowns, snow removal and electrical power.
This meeting resulted in positive signals that our ideas will be considered by the GNWT in its development of new airport infrastructure and policy. NWTFA will be following up with the airport manager over the next few months to implement short-term improvements and elaborate on longer-term ideas and priorities.
RESULTS OF MEMBERSHIP SURVEY
December 5, 2017
NWTFA recently completed a survey to obtain input from members respecting priorities for improvement of general aviation facilities at the YZF airport. The survey attracted 27 responses and collected a considerable amount of useful input. Highlights include confirmation that many members do not currently use the airport facilities, membership support for designated parking for itinerant pilots, and interest in creation of communal general aviation and hangar space.
December 5, 2017
NWTFA recently completed a survey to obtain input from members respecting priorities for improvement of general aviation facilities at the YZF airport. The survey attracted 27 responses and collected a considerable amount of useful input. Highlights include confirmation that many members do not currently use the airport facilities, membership support for designated parking for itinerant pilots, and interest in creation of communal general aviation and hangar space.
COMMITTEE TO SOLICIT INPUT FROM MEMBERS
September 27, 2017
NWTFA has established a committee to solicit input from members for ideas and priorities for general aviation improvements at the YZF airport. Under its terms of reference, the committee will gather recommendations and report to NWTFA directors but not communicate directly with the GNWT. The objective is to develop a vision and strategy including short and long term goals supported by the membership. All members have a common interest in general aviation and the new airport improvement tax will generate revenue that could fund improvements.
September 27, 2017
NWTFA has established a committee to solicit input from members for ideas and priorities for general aviation improvements at the YZF airport. Under its terms of reference, the committee will gather recommendations and report to NWTFA directors but not communicate directly with the GNWT. The objective is to develop a vision and strategy including short and long term goals supported by the membership. All members have a common interest in general aviation and the new airport improvement tax will generate revenue that could fund improvements.
ENGAGEMENT WITH YZF AIRPORT
August 1, 2017
Recent discussions between NWTFA and the YZF airport manager confirm an interest in integrating our suggestions and priorities for general aviation improvements into GNWT plans for the YZF airport. NWTFA will need to create a long-term strategy including input from members operating on wheels. Preliminary topics include development of hangar space, improved tie-down options, and better delineation of parking spaces.
August 1, 2017
Recent discussions between NWTFA and the YZF airport manager confirm an interest in integrating our suggestions and priorities for general aviation improvements into GNWT plans for the YZF airport. NWTFA will need to create a long-term strategy including input from members operating on wheels. Preliminary topics include development of hangar space, improved tie-down options, and better delineation of parking spaces.
MEETING WITH YZF AIRPORT MANAGER
June 28, 2017
NWTFA recently met with the YZF airport manager to open discussions respecting desired improvements to general aviation facilities. The parking area remains problematic for nose wheel aircraft although the gravel surface has been tamped down.
NWTFA will continue to liaise with airport management to address member concerns and seek improvements beneficial to general aviation. The airport manager has been provided with a copy of the COPA National report on Economic Benefit of General Aviation in Canada and expressed interest in learning more about NWTFA and our priorities.
June 28, 2017
NWTFA recently met with the YZF airport manager to open discussions respecting desired improvements to general aviation facilities. The parking area remains problematic for nose wheel aircraft although the gravel surface has been tamped down.
NWTFA will continue to liaise with airport management to address member concerns and seek improvements beneficial to general aviation. The airport manager has been provided with a copy of the COPA National report on Economic Benefit of General Aviation in Canada and expressed interest in learning more about NWTFA and our priorities.
RELOCATION OF PARKING TO UNSUITABLE LOCATION
April 18, 2017
Concerns have recently been brought to NWTFA regarding changes to general aviation parking at the YZF airport. In fall 2016, the GNWT instructed owners to relocate their aircraft to assigned parking spots east of the Adlair fence as delineated by cement blocks. Parking had previously been available along taxiway KILO at a fee of $300 per year with pilots being responsible for their own tie-downs. The new area is unsuitable for as airport snow clearing creates frozen banks impeding aircraft access and movement and the coarse gravel base poses risk of propeller damage.
Individual NWTFA members have been unsuccessful in addressing their concerns with airport management. NWTFA will seek a meeting with the airport manager in an effort to address the issue in a constructive manner. NWTFA will also approach COPA National for research on appropriate aerodrome surfaces.
April 18, 2017
Concerns have recently been brought to NWTFA regarding changes to general aviation parking at the YZF airport. In fall 2016, the GNWT instructed owners to relocate their aircraft to assigned parking spots east of the Adlair fence as delineated by cement blocks. Parking had previously been available along taxiway KILO at a fee of $300 per year with pilots being responsible for their own tie-downs. The new area is unsuitable for as airport snow clearing creates frozen banks impeding aircraft access and movement and the coarse gravel base poses risk of propeller damage.
Individual NWTFA members have been unsuccessful in addressing their concerns with airport management. NWTFA will seek a meeting with the airport manager in an effort to address the issue in a constructive manner. NWTFA will also approach COPA National for research on appropriate aerodrome surfaces.
PROCEDURES FOR FLOATPLANE LAUNCHING AT LONG LAKE
May 1, 2014
In consultation with the Department of Transportation of the GNWT, NWTFA has developed procedures for the movement of floatplanes between Long Lake and the Yellowknife airport property. Both parties recognize the potential risk inherent in moving aircraft across the highway between the lake and the airport gate. Adherence to the agreed procedures assists in coordination between pilots and airport fire hall personnel and helps to ensure the safe movement of aircraft.
May 1, 2014
In consultation with the Department of Transportation of the GNWT, NWTFA has developed procedures for the movement of floatplanes between Long Lake and the Yellowknife airport property. Both parties recognize the potential risk inherent in moving aircraft across the highway between the lake and the airport gate. Adherence to the agreed procedures assists in coordination between pilots and airport fire hall personnel and helps to ensure the safe movement of aircraft.
PARKING FEES IMPLEMENTED AT YZF AIRPORT
October 1, 2011
New fee regulations adopted by the GNWT Department of Transportation have resulted in the implementation of fees for parking of aircraft at the YZF airport. NWTFA objected to the application of daily parking fees for long-term users and was able to negotiate a compromise allowing for annual parking licenses. Aircraft owners parking their aircraft on airport property will be required to apply for annual or monthly licenses at rates of $279 per year or $50 per month. NWTFA will continue to lobby for dedicated general aviation parking with amenities such as tie-downs, access to electricity and suitable access to a parking area.
October 1, 2011
New fee regulations adopted by the GNWT Department of Transportation have resulted in the implementation of fees for parking of aircraft at the YZF airport. NWTFA objected to the application of daily parking fees for long-term users and was able to negotiate a compromise allowing for annual parking licenses. Aircraft owners parking their aircraft on airport property will be required to apply for annual or monthly licenses at rates of $279 per year or $50 per month. NWTFA will continue to lobby for dedicated general aviation parking with amenities such as tie-downs, access to electricity and suitable access to a parking area.
