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Category: Fort McMurray YMM

  • Holiday Cheer Fills Fort McMurray International Airport YMM as Sold-out Photos with Santa Event Raises $2,000 for Santas Anonymous

    Community comes together at Fort McMurray International Airport on Dec. 6 to support local families and celebrate the season in partnership with Father Patrick Mercredi High School

    Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) terminal was filled with warmth, laughter and holiday cheer on Saturday, Dec. 6, as families, friends and even a few furry guests gathered for the annual Photos with Santa event in support of Santas Anonymous. Hosted in partnership with the students of Father Patrick Mercredi High School, the festive afternoon raised a total of $2,000 (net) to help local families experience the magic of the holiday season.

    Guests enjoyed a cheerful afternoon complete with professional holiday photo sessions featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, a special appearance by Buddy the Elf, live musical performances by local students, led by Jessica McIntosh, holiday colouring and face painting stations, and plenty of seasonal treats. Early in the afternoon, a dedicated sensory friendly photo session offered a calm and welcoming environment for guests who preferred a quieter visit.

    Funds were raised through photo sales, raffles and 50/50 draw, and on-site vendor support, with all proceeds directed to Santas Anonymous.

    “Seeing our terminal filled with families, laughter and holiday spirit was incredibly special,” said Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “As an airport, we are here to connect people, and events like this remind us how meaningful it is to also bring our community together in support of one another during the holidays.”

    For more than 40 years, Santas Anonymous has been led by the students and staff of Father Patrick Mercredi High School, helping families with children celebrate Christmas when financial barriers exist, while also creating opportunities for students to volunteer, build empathy and develop leadership skills.

    “Santas Anonymous has always been about sharing the season in a meaningful way for both the families we support and the students who lead this initiative,” said Meredith Macneill, Vice Principal of

    Father Patrick Mercredi School. “Partnering with YMM allowed our students to give back in a very community centered setting, and it was wonderful to see so many people come out to support the cause.”

    The Fort McMurray Airport Authority extends sincere thanks to the students, staff and volunteers from Father Patrick Mercredi High School, as well as event partners, performers and community members who helped bring the afternoon to life. Together, the community transformed the airport terminal into a joyful gathering place that reflected the generosity and spirit of the season.

    As a place where journeys begin, YMM is proud to also serve as a space for connection, celebration and giving back during the holidays.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com  

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is a non-profit, non-share capital organization owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to four major Canadian cities and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

  • Fort McMurray International Airport celebrates launch of new non-stop Vancouver service and prepares for the holiday travel season

    December 3, 2025

    New YMM to YVR route lifts off as the airport unveils festive programming and seasonal travel reminders

    Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray Airport Authority is pleased to share that Air Canada’s new non-stop service between Fort McMurray International Airport and Vancouver International Airport officially launched December 2. The inaugural flight departed at 7:10 p.m. following a celebration at the Air Canada gate, where passengers were welcomed with greetings from Air Canada and the Fort McMurray Airport Authority, along with a cookies and coffee station and a themed photo area. Special guests Mayor Sandy Bowman, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Kevin Weidlich, Vice President Destination & Commercial Development, Travel Alberta and Lisa Sweet, Interim CEO Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism, also joined Team YMM to mark this important milestone.

    “This route represents a major win for our region,” said Denean Robinson, President and CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “Restoring non-stop service to Vancouver has been a key priority for our team. It gives residents a smoother and more convenient travel option while opening access across British Columbia, North America and the Asia Pacific. Seeing the excitement from travellers this evening is a reminder of how vital reliable air service is to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.”

    The new service is offered on Tuesdays Wednesdays and Thursdays, with evening departure times designed to support onward connections through Air Canada’s global network. The route unlocks access to destinations including Kelowna, Victoria, Prince George, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Manila, Tokyo, Sydney and Brisbane.

    With the holidays quickly approaching YMM is moving into one of its busiest periods. The terminal is fully decorated for the season and ready to welcome families, residents and visitors.

    To support a smooth travel experience YMM is sharing several seasonal reminders aligned with Transport Canada guidance, including arriving at least two hours before departure, preparing for screening by keeping liquids to 100 millilitres or less and ensuring electronics are easy to access, leaving gifts unwrapped and checking flight status before heading to the airport.

    A favourite holiday tradition returns to the terminal this Saturday, with YMM Photos with Santa in support of Santas Anonymous. The event is now fully sold out, a reflection of how much our community embraces this warm and cheerful gathering. Couples, kids, families and pets will be joining us for festive photos, a special visit from Buddy the Elf and live holiday music performed by local students. It promises to be a cozy and spirited afternoon filled with the joy of the season.

    “The holidays bring a certain magic to the airport,” added Robinson. “With our new Vancouver service taking flight and the cheerful energy throughout the terminal, it truly is a lovely time to start your winter travels right here at home.”

    The Fort McMurray Airport Authority encourages residents to consider YMM first for their winter travel plans. “When you choose to begin your journey at YMM, it supports our efforts to increase frequency on existing routes and secure new ones for everyone to enjoy,” said Robinson.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com 

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) ) is a non-profit, non-share capital organization owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to four major Canadian cities and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

  • Air Canada Announces Changes to its Regional Network

    • New Fredericton to Ottawa, and Moncton to Ottawa daily flights
    • New Fort McMurray to Vancouver flights, three times weekly
    • More Sudbury to Toronto flights, increasing from two to three flights daily

    MONTRÉAL, Sept. 19, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Canada today announced changes to its regional network that include new flights connecting Ottawa to both Fredericton and Moncton beginning Dec. 15, 2025, and non-stop flights from Vancouver to Fort McMurray starting Dec. 2, 2025. The airline is also increasing flights from Toronto to Sudbury as of Feb. 1, 2026. All flights will be operated with Air Canada Express Q400 aircraft. Flights are now available for purchase at aircanada.com, through Air Canada Contact Centres, and via travel agents.

    Air Canada today announced changes to its regional network that include new flights connecting Ottawa to both Fredericton and Moncton beginning Dec. 15, 2025, and non-stop flights from Vancouver to Fort McMurray starting Dec. 2, 2025. (CNW Group/Air Canada)
    Air Canada today announced changes to its regional network that include new flights connecting Ottawa to both Fredericton and Moncton beginning Dec. 15, 2025, and non-stop flights from Vancouver to Fort McMurray starting Dec. 2, 2025. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

    “Air Canada is diversifying its domestic regional network this fall to capitalize on travel demand in growing markets. Our newest Ottawa routes will connect the National Capital Region to two expanding areas in New Brunswick – its capital city, Fredericton, and Moncton, the province’s largest urban and fastest growing area. We have strategically designed these New Brunswick flights to connect in Ottawa to and from our domestic and sun network for additional travel choices,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, and President, Cargo at Air Canada.

    “The addition of non-stop flights from Fort McMurray to Vancouver, and more flights from Sudbury to Toronto will link these airports directly to our Vancouver and Toronto hubs, bringing corporate travellers a multitude of connecting options throughout our global network,” concluded Mr. Galardo.

    FlightFromToDepart  Arrive  Days of
    Operation      		Season
    AC2548  Ottawa (YOW)Fredericton
    (YFC)    		15:4018:10dailyYear-round,
    begins Dec. 15  
    AC2549Fredericton
    (YFC)    		Ottawa (YOW)16:1517:00dailyYear-round,
    begins Dec. 15
    AC7890Ottawa (YOW)Moncton
    (YQM)    		17:5520:40dailyYear-round,
    begins Dec. 15
    AC7891Moncton
    (YQM)    		Ottawa (YOW)05:5007:00dailyYear-round,
    begins Dec. 16
    AC7790Vancouver
    (YVR)    		Fort McMurray  
    (YMM)    		15:1018:31Tue, Wed,
    Thur    		Year-round,
    begins Dec. 2
    AC7791Fort McMurray  
    (YMM)    		Vancouver
    (YVR)    		19:1020:47Tue, Wed,
    Thur    		Year-round,
    begins Dec. 2

    Sudbury increased capacity

    RouteIncrease compared to previous year                               
    Sudbury (YSB) to Toronto (YYZ)         Seat capacity increases 50%; flights increase from 2 to 3
    daily flights, year-round, effective Feb. 1, 2026

    As part of these network adjustments, Air Canada is also taking the difficult decision to suspend operations to Bathurst and to North Bay effective Jan. 30, 2026, for commercial viability reasons. Air Canada will implement these suspensions in line with its obligations under the Canada Transportation Act.

    This winter, Air Canada will offer over 60,000 seats each day on more than 500 daily flights to 49 destinations across Canada.

    About Air Canada

    Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate-related ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

  • Porter introduces new Fort McMurray-Ottawa route

    27 August 2025

    Quick connections to Porter’s extensive Eastern Canada network Nonstop service begins Nov. 17

    original Porter Airlines is introducing new service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). Porter is the only airline offering nonstop service between the two destinations.

    Porter Airlines is introducing new service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). Porter is the only airline offering nonstop service between the two destinations.

    TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Porter Airlines is introducing new service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). Porter is the only airline offering nonstop service between the two destinations.

    The year-round service takes off November 17, 2025, with three weekly nonstop roundtrip flights.

    The new route also connects Fort McMurray to Porter’s extensive Eastern Canada network through Ottawa, including St. John’s, Halifax, Moncton and Toronto.

    The initial schedule is as follows:

    RouteDepartureArrivalDays of Operation
    Ottawa – Fort McMurray9:25 a.m.11:55 a.m.Monday, Wednesday, Friday
    Fort McMurray – Ottawa12:50 p.m.6:45 p.m.

    All times local.

    Porter continues to expand its network from Ottawa, now serving 26 destinations. Fort McMurray adds to Porter’s presence in Western Canada and is the airline’s third destination in Alberta, joining Calgary and Edmonton.

    Travellers will enjoy Porter’s elevated economy experience on its 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with no middle seats, free premium snacks, complimentary beer and wine in glassware, and free, fast WiFi. PorterReserve fares include fresh, healthy meals, enhanced legroom, complimentary checked bags, and priority boarding and check-in, for an all-inclusive travel experience. These same options are available à la carte under the PorterClassic fare.

    For more information and detailed schedules, visit www.flyporter.com.

    Quotes

    “Porter is the only airline providing service between Ottawa and Fort McMurray. As the latest addition to our network, Fort McMurray is gaining valuable new air service to support its position as a key economic centre and leisure travel destination for outdoor adventure. It connects with our growing Ottawa hub, providing many connecting travel options throughout Eastern Canada and other North American locations.”

    – Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines

    “Porter Airlines’ new non-stop service between Ottawa and Fort McMurray marks another exciting milestone for YOW. As YOW’s largest airline by number of non-stop destinations, Porter continues to strengthen Ottawa’s role as a key hub in their expanding North American and Caribbean network. This new route not only enhances connectivity for business and leisure travellers, but also reinforces our shared commitment to serving communities across Canada with convenience and care.”

    – Susan Margles, president and CEO, Ottawa International Airport Authority

    “YMM is thrilled to welcome Porter Airlines with a new nonstop flight to Ottawa. This exciting milestone is part of our ongoing air service development efforts. We build strong business cases and work closely with both current and prospective airline partners to bring in new routes and increase frequency on the ones we already have. We also listen closely to our community, and we know they’ve been eager to see Porter at YMM. The schedule makes it easy to connect to popular East Coast destinations and beyond, giving residents more access to the places they want to go. This partnership grows YMM’s network and gives travellers greater choice and flexibility when planning their journeys.”

    – Denean Robinson, president and CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority

    About Porter

    Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®.

  • YMM celebrates the people behind the journey with official recognition and community appreciation  

    June 25, 2025 

    Mayor Proclaims Airport Workers Day in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo

    Fort McMurray, AB – Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) proudly celebrated Airport Workers Day this morning with a breakfast event recognizing the dedicated individuals who keep air travel running safely and efficiently. Hosted by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA), the event brought together airport staff, partners, and community leaders to honour the people behind every passenger journey.

    During the celebration, Mayor Sandy Bowman formally proclaimed June 25 as Airport Workers Day in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. The proclamation aligns with a growing movement across North America to recognize the essential role of airport workers in connecting people, communities, and economies.

    “We are very proud of our airport, and the reason is because of the community members that work there,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman. “Airport workers are essential for the safety of our communities, the region’s economy, and the strength of our connections. It was an honour to join the team at YMM and formally recognize the role they play every single day.”

    The proclamation highlighted the diversity of roles that support safe, secure, and reliable air transportation – from ground crews and customer service agents to security personnel, maintenance staff, and retail workers.

    Denean Robinson, President and CEO of FMAA, also addressed the gathering, offering remarks of gratitude and recognition. “Airports function because of people. Whether they are working behind the scenes or on the front line, every team member contributes to the journey and leaves a lasting impression,” said Robinson. “Today’s proclamation is a meaningful acknowledgment of that work.”

    The day also served as a moment of pride as FMAA reflected on national recognition from the year prior. Adam Lo Bianco, FMAA’s Manager of Facilities and Infrastructure, was one of only five individuals honoured at the inaugural Canadian Airport Workers Day for his outstanding leadership and commitment to operational excellence at YMM.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

  • From the Mine to the Terminal: New Art Installation Lands at YMM

    June 20, 2025 

    Unearthing Black Gold brings beauty, meaning, and a sense of place to the airport experience

    Fort McMurray, AB – A striking new art installation has officially joined the YMM Collection at Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM), welcoming travellers with a bold and colourful tribute to the region’s energy story.

    Unearthing Black Gold: A Tribute to Human Endeavour and Innovation is a four-panel acrylic paint on metal artwork by local artist Alexandra Kavanagh. Installed in the YMM Courtyard on Level 1, the piece captures the full life cycle of the oil sands through the themes of Mining, Refining, Sustainability, and Reclamation.

    “This work speaks to the ingenuity, effort, and pride that shape Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo,” said Jessica Lipton, Manager of Marketing and Communications with the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “We’re proud to share that story with travellers the moment they arrive, and to shine a light on the incredible talent within our own community.”

    Alexandra, a self-taught artist originally from Québec, has called Fort McMurray home for the past decade. Her creative style draws inspiration from the region’s industrial landscape, blending structure and scale with vibrant colour and movement. The installation took more than two hundred hours to complete.

    “This piece is about recognizing the people and the process behind one of the most defining industries in our country,” said Kavanagh. “It was a privilege to bring that story to life.”

    The project was made possible through the support of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo’s Public Art Program, and the artwork is now proudly recognized in both the YMM Art Collection and the Municipal Public Art Collection.

    “By investing in public art, we’re investing in our stories” says Theresa Buller, Coordinator with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, “amplifying the voices of local artists and in making those stories visible to everyone who lives here and visits.”

    At YMM, art plays a central role in creating a terminal experience that is welcoming, meaningful, and reflective of the region we serve. Unearthing Black Gold is a vivid reminder of what makes this community unique – and a beautiful new addition for all who pass through.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

    About Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo | rmwb.com 

    Rich in Indigenous history and cultural diversity, Wood Buffalo is home to residents from all over the world. At more than 66,300 square kilometres, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is the largest municipality in Canada and is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the nation. The RMWB’s municipal art program is intended to strengthen community identity and sense of place through the creation and development of public art within the region.

    About Alexandra Kavanagh | https://www.akfineart.ca/

    Alexandra is a self-taught artist, who began her journey into art at a very young age. Influenced by architecture and design she spent her days sketching out floorplans and buildings. She developed and honed her craft, primarily, while working in the oil sands of Fort McMurray, Alberta, over the past seven years. Her current work, which celebrates the industry, has strengthened her connection to it, fueling her desire to be a part of this snapshot, in the history of human ingenuity.

  • Upcoming Art Installation Unveiling Event at YMM Celebrates Industry and Innovation

    May 21, 2025

    Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s energy industry story brought to life through a striking four-piece art installation by Alexandra Kavanagh

    Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) is proud to unveil a new art installation, titled Unearthing Black Gold, by local artist Alexandra Kavanagh. The artwork celebrates the industry, innovation, and cultural resilience that makes Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo so special.

    The unveiling will take place on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 12 p.m. in the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) Courtyard. The installation is the latest feature in the YMM Collection, part of its vision to create a welcoming and regionally reflective space for travellers and residents to enjoy.

    “At YMM, we believe the travel experience should reflect the region it represents,” says Denean Robinson, President and CEO. FMAA. “This powerful installation pays tribute to the energy sector – the primary employer in our region and a vital economic engine for the country. Through Alexandra’s work, we honour the people who drive this industry forward, their spirit of innovation, and their commitment to responsible development. This piece is a meaningful addition to the terminal. We’re grateful for the support of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) to make it possible.”

    “We’re proud to support and showcase local talent through meaningful public installations like this one,” says Theresa Buller, Recreation and Culture Coordinator, RMWB. “It’s a beautiful way to honour our community’s identity and inspire dialogue through art.”

    Attendees at the unveiling will have the opportunity to meet artist Alexandra Kavanagh and hear firsthand about the inspiration behind her work, the creative process, and the story the installation is meant to tell.

    “Creating this piece was deeply personal. It’s a reflection of our shared stories, those rooted in land, family, and resilience,” says Kavanagh. “To have it installed at YMM, where so many journeys begin and end, is an incredible honour.”

    The unveiling is open to the public. Guests will enjoy refreshments, meet the artist, and explore the artwork firsthand. Register to attend HERE.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com 

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

    About Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo | rmwb.com 

    Rich in Indigenous history and cultural diversity, Wood Buffalo is home to residents from all over the world. At more than 66,300 square kilometres, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is the largest municipality in Canada and is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the nation. The RMWB’s municipal art program is intended to strengthen community identity and sense of place through the creation and development of public art within the region.

    About Alexandra Kavanagh | https://www.akfineart.ca/

    Alexandra is a self-taught artist, who began her journey into art at a very young age. Influenced by architecture and design she spent her days sketching out floorplans and buildings. She developed and honed her craft, primarily, while working in the oil sands of Fort McMurray, Alberta, over the past seven years. Her current work, which celebrates the industry, has strengthened her connection to it, fueling her desire to be a part of this snapshot, in the history of human ingenuity.

  • Experience the Magic of Art and Connection at YMM’s Digital Art Exhibit Launch

    A Celebration of Creativity, Community, and Travel Through the Digital Canvas

    March 11, 2025 – Fort McMurray, AB – Get ready for an unforgettable evening as the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) proudly kicks off the 2025 YMM Digital Art Exhibit Series with an event that brings art, travel, and community together for a celebration!

    Join us on Friday, April 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Arrivals, Level 1 at YMM for a showcase featuring the extraordinary talents of local artists Lisa Smith, Rienna Davey, and Hira Noor.

    This year’s theme, “The Art of Connection,” explores how artistic expression brings people together through the shared experience of travel. The exhibits reflect personal journeys, the connections made along the way, and the way travel bridges differences – creating moments of understanding across cultures and backgrounds. Through powerful visual storytelling, the featured works highlight the emotions, relationships, and stories that unfold when people explore new places, and meet new faces.

    “Our community thrives on connections, whether through art, culture, or the experiences we share,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “The YMM Digital Art Exhibit is more than just a digital showcase of incredible local talent, it enriches the passenger journey, creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for travellers travelling through YMM. Art has the unique ability to bring people together, spark conversation, and celebrate our region’s identity.

    What to expect:

    • Three captivating galleries featuring each artists’ unique interpretation of “The Art of Connection”
    • Live acoustic music by local musician Chris Pottie
    • A gourmet culinary experience with appetizers and desserts from YMM Earls Kitchen + Bar
    • Artist Panel Discussion to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process as Lisa Smith, Rienna Davey, and Hira Noor share their inspirations, artistic journeys, and the significance of their exhibits
    • Silent auction featuring exclusive artwork, with all proceeds supporting Arts Council Wood Buffalo

    “Arts Council Wood Buffalo (ACWB) is grateful for our ongoing partnership with YMM, which continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to integrating arts and culture into its strategic vision,” says Liana Wheeldon, Executive Director, Arts Council Wood Buffalo. “By showcasing local artists throughout the terminal on their digital screens, the airport not only enhances the travel experience but also highlights the vital role of the arts in tourism and community identity. Congratulations to the talented artists whose work will be featured – your creativity helps tell the story of our region to visitors from near and far!”

    Don’t miss this chance to engage with the local arts community, enjoy an evening of creativity and culture at YMM! Tickets are by donation, with 100% of proceeds raised going to ACWB.

    Secure your spot now! Visit Eventbrite.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com 

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

    About the YMM Digital Art Exhibit | flyymm.com 

    The Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) is committed to enhancing the travel experience by celebrating and promoting arts and culture within the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM). Through the YMM Digital Art Exhibit, the airport provides a dynamic platform for artists to showcase their work on digital screens throughout the terminal and online, reaching a diverse audience of travellers from around the world. This initiative reflects FMAA’s dedication to supporting local creativity, enriching passenger experiences, and creating a strong sense of community and connection through the power of art.

    About Arts Council Wood Buffalo (ACWB) | artscouncilwb.ca

    Arts Council Wood Buffalo is a non-profit society and registered charity dedicated to building a thriving community through the arts. As the leading advocate for the arts in our region, ACWB works to fulfil its vision of a creatively empowered Wood Buffalo by supporting local artists and fostering a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable arts ecosystem. Through innovative programs, valuable resources, and meaningful collaborations, ACWB enriches the cultural landscape for the benefit of the entire community.

  • Fort McMurray International Airport Named One of Five North American Airports to Achieve Airport Workforce Development Accreditation

    Fort McMurray, AB – February 8, 2025 – Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is proud to be recognized as one of the first five airports in North America to receive Airport Workforce Development Accreditation, a newly launched program by Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).

    This first-of-its-kind initiative provides a structured roadmap to help airports enhance workforce skills, elevate employee engagement, and strengthen workforce readiness across the industry. YMM has been accredited at Level 1, recognizing its efforts in establishing foundational workforce practices and raising awareness of the airport’s pivotal role in the community. Other accredited airports include Toronto Pearson International Airport, Denver International Airport, Rapid City Regional Airport, and San Francisco International Airport.

    “We are honoured to be among the first airports in North America to achieve this accreditation,” said Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “This recognition underscores our commitment to workforce development, ensuring that we continue to attract, develop, and retain skilled talent to support our airport, our community, and the broader aviation industry. It validates the efforts we’ve already put in place while providing a framework to build upon.”

    ACI-NA President & CEO Kevin M. Burke praised YMM’s achievement, stating, “YMM has demonstrated excellence in strategic workforce planning and employee engagement, setting a new benchmark for the industry. We are proud to recognize YMM on their accreditation under this program and look forward to assisting more airports and business partners in attaining their accreditation soon.”

    The Airport Workforce Development Accreditation consists of five progressive levels:

    • Level 1 – Building the Base: Establishes foundational workforce programs and raises awareness.
    • Level 2 – Nurturing Talent: Aligns internal training programs with skill-gap analysis and development opportunities.
    • Level 3 – Cultivating Connections: Expands outreach to secure future talent pipelines.
    • Level 4 – Extending Influence: Strengthens partnerships with educational institutions and industry collaborators.
    • Level 5 – Shaping the Future: Implements sustainable workforce strategies ensuring long-term adaptability.

    As YMM continues to build on this foundation, it remains committed to creating a strong, skilled, and engaged workforce that will support the region’s aviation needs for years to come. For more information about the Airport Workforce Development Accreditation, visit ACI-NA’s website.

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com
    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport
    campus.

  • Fort McMurray International Airport Welcomes Expanded Flight Frequency in 2025

    January 29, 2025

    Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is excited to announce expanded flight frequency to Edmonton, Calgary and Toronto for 2025, enhancing connectivity for residents and visitors alike. With increased services from both WestJet and Air Canada, travellers can look forward to more schedule choices and convenient connections, reinforcing YMM’s commitment to delivering high quality air service.

    WestJet continues to demonstrate its commitment to the region with additional flights starting this month, followed by even greater service expansions coming this spring. By May 2025, WestJet alone will offer 43 weekly flights, a notable increase from 33 weekly flights in December 2024.

    Air Canada is also strengthening its presence at YMM. The airline will operate four weekly flights to Toronto starting in May. This marks a continued improvement from last November’s schedule offering two times per week, highlighting Air Canada’s dedication to meeting demand for travel from the region. The airline is also increasing its air service offerings to Calgary.

    Combined, WestJet and Air Canada will offer an impressive 61 flights per week by May 2025, up from 51 weekly flights currently.

    YMM’s goal of welcoming 362,000 passengers in 2025 reflects its importance as a gateway to northern Alberta. These expanded services provide residents with enhanced quality of life by offering quick and efficient connections to destinations across Canada and beyond.

    “This is a direct reflection of the demand for travel in our community,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). “Expanded air service means greater accessibility and convenience for our passengers, whether they’re travelling for business, reconnecting with loved ones, or embarking on new adventures. We’re proud to support this enhanced connectivity that reinforces our role as a vital gateway to northern Alberta.”

    Airline partners also share this enthusiasm, “We are thrilled to be expanding service connecting Fort McMurray to Calgary and Edmonton this summer with 41 weekly flights,” said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. “This increase confirms our commitment to critical air access across the region that is convenient and affordable. As we continue to strengthen our services across Western Canada, we remain focused on expanding connectivity where it is needed most with 31 flights connecting Fort McMurray to our global hub in Calgary.”

    Air Canada added, “Doubling our non-stop flights to Toronto brings more convenient options connecting Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo to Eastern and Atlantic Canada, and to Air Canada’s global network.”

    Building strong air service connections is a collaborative effort. YMM continues to work closely with airline partners and the community to attract new flights and sustain those currently offered.

    “Choosing to fly YMM is a powerful way for residents to support and strengthen our community,” says Michael Sieger, Vice-President of Air Service and Commercial Development, FMAA. “Every trip taken through our airport boosts ridership numbers, which sends a strong signal to airlines about the demand for our region. This collective effort directly impacts our ability to attract new destinations, making every resident’s travel choice a vital step toward expanding flight offerings and connecting our community to more opportunities.”

    About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com 

    Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.