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.

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, 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.

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.

November 29, 2024

Over $700 in Donations Raised and 60 Toys Donated to Santa’s Anonymous           

Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) was alive with holiday cheer on November 22 as families gathered for the highly anticipated “YMM Santa & Friends” event. This heartwarming celebration captured the true spirit of the season while supporting a meaningful cause, Santas Anonymous, led by the students of Father Patrick Mercredi High School.

The event kicked off with a sensory-friendly timeslot, to offer a calm, welcoming environment for those with sensory sensitivities.

All guests enjoyed a special photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus, meet and greet with Buddy the Elf and fun with furry friends from the Pet and Wellness Society (PAWS). Families also enjoyed Tim Hortons hot chocolate and Timbits, and holiday-themed colouring and face painting stations.

Local talent added a magical touch as students performed beautiful holiday piano music under the direction of Jessica McIntosh, setting the perfect atmosphere for guests.

“The partnership with Father Patrick Mercredi High School’s Santas Anonymous initiative added a meaningful impact to the event,” says Tracie Nippard, Fundraising Coordinator with Santa’s Anonymous. “The proceeds raised, along with the generous contributions of new toys, will directly support families in need, ensuring children in our region receive gifts this holiday season who might not have otherwise.”

“This event aligns perfectly with our organization’s values, fostering connections, supporting our community, and creating positive experiences,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “We’re proud to have partnered with Santas Anonymous to bring joy to those in need this holiday season.”

The Fort McMurray International Airport extends its gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and partners who helped make this event a resounding success.

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.

August 6, 2024

YMM sixth airport in Canada to receive accreditation

Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is the sixth airport in Canada to receive accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) Public Health & Safety Readiness (PHSR) accreditation program.

The PHSR accreditation program provides airports with an assessment that evaluates public health and safety alignment with the ACI Business Restart and Recovery guidelines, recommendations, and industry best practices.

“I want to thank everyone for their efforts in creating our Public Health and Safety Management Plan (PHSMP), which made this accomplishment possible,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). “Our PHSMP includes practical measures which can be quickly and effectively applied should we face another serious health crisis event.”

“North American airports continually take proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of passengers and airport employees,” says Kevin M. Burke, ACI-NA President and CEO. “We are proud to recognize YMM with this important step of earning their PHSR accreditation. This endorsement further demonstrates the airport’s commitment to promoting health and safety in air travel.”

World-class sanitation and cleanliness standards won YMM the 2022 and 2023 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for “Cleanest Airport in North America,” from ACI, as announced in a news release earlier this year.

“Our region is renowned for its strong health and safety culture, and it’s clear from this most recognition that the FMAA is a leader in this area,” says Sandy Bowman, Mayor of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. “We are tremendously appreciative of their efforts, and we congratulate them on this accomplishment as a key community partner.”

The ACI PHSR accreditation, which is the follow-up accreditation to the ACI Health Accreditation YMM held since 2020, represents the airport staff’s commitment to the safety and health of passengers, guests, and staff. The PHSMP was developed by FMAA, with input from every department to ensure a cohesive reaction in the face of another pandemic, etc.

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.

June 26, 2024

Fort McMurray, AB – Airports across Canada are taking time to celebrate aviation employees and partners today, marking the inaugural Canadian Airports Workers Day (AWD).

“By celebrating the dynamic and diverse people who work in our airports, we aim to shine a light on the many career opportunities that are possible within Canada’s aviation sector,” says Canadian Airports Council President, Monette Pasher. “Airport Workers Day represents our gratitude for the more than 200,000 people who work day in, and day out to keep Canadians and our economy moving.”

The Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) Senior Leadership Team spent the morning handing out coffee and breakfast sandwiches, thanking workers for their roles in making the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) a premier regional airport.

“Each employee plays a role in ensuring safe and efficient daily operations,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO of FMAA. “We are very lucky to have an exceptional group of individuals on airport campus. Their hard work is representative of their passion to provide a positive passenger experience for everyone who flies YMM.”

As part of AWD celebrations, the CAC selected five airport workers to receive Canadian Airports Workers Day Awards. The five categories include: Environmental Steward, Outstanding Service, Operational Excellence, Outstanding Leadership and Industry Champion.

FMAA’s Adam Lo Bianco, Manager of Facilities & Terminal Operations, is the winner of the Outstanding Leadership Award. The award “honours a supervisor or manager who has steered their team with outstanding leadership qualities, ensuring smooth travels within their department.”

“I couldn’t be more honoured,” says Lo Bianco. “The most rewarding part of my job is interacting with guests, tenants, staff and management. The organizational culture here at YMM is kind, capable, and respectful – and that’s very special to me,” when asked why he enjoys working at YMM.

Vice-President of Operations & Infrastructure Cuyler Green was thrilled to hear of Lo Bianco’s recognition, “Adam is very thoughtful and considerate in all that he does. He is a true leader, and I can say on behalf of the entire team that we are all very happy to see him receive this recognition,” said Green.

Nominations for recognition on National Airport Workers Day came from various sources, including management, airlines, passengers, and colleagues. FMAA’s Gary Tam, Airport Operations Specialist, and Wilson Chow, Maintenance Crafts Person, were also among those nominated for Airport Workers Day Awards.

-30-

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 Canadian Airports Council | canadasairports.ca

The Canadian Airports Council is a division of Airports Council International-North America that represents Canada’s airports community. Its 56 members represent more than 100 airports, including allof the privately operated National Airports System airports and many municipal airports. The council works to ensure that Canada’s airports have the regulatory and operational tools they need by advocating for policies that strengthen the ability of Canada’s airports to serve their travellers and communities.

June 24, 2024

Amy Keller-Rempp’s Sky Dance Series to be showcased at the Fort McMurray International Airport

Fort McMurray, AB – The Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) announces Amy Keller-Rempp’s Sky Dance Series as the third of four digital art exhibits to be showcased throughout the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) in 2024.

The exhibit will be kicked-off with a launch event on Thursday, August 1, from 1 – 2 p.m. on Arrivals, Level 1. FMAA invites the community to attend. Guests will hear from the artist herself, the inspiration she drew from to create the series and opportunity to network, enjoy live music and mingle with fellow lovers of the arts.

“Being one of the artists selected for the YMM Digital Art Exhibit is a tremendous honour,” says Keller-Rempp. “It means a great deal to me, as it allows my artwork to reach a diverse audience and contribute to the cultural tapestry of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.”

The Sky Dance Series encapsulates the profound connection between the landscapes and wildlife of the region and beauty of the northern lights. “My initial encounter with the northern lights phenomenon upon relocating to Fort McMurray in 2008 ignited the creative spark that has since given rise to this celebrated collection,” says Keller-Rempp.

“Our team is excited to welcome Amy as the third artist featured in our YMM Digital Art Exhibit this year,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO of FMAA. “We have two of her airbrushed metal art pieces on display in our Observation Area, and an original painting in our boardroom, and we receive a lot of inquiries about them. I have no doubt the community and visitors will enjoy her breathtaking work on their next trip through YMM.”

RSVP to the upcoming YMM Digital Art Launch Event here.

About the YMM Digital Art Exhibit | flyymm.com/ymm-digital-art-exhibit

The Fort McMurray Airport Authority aims to celebrate and promote arts and culture by displaying artist exhibits on digital screens throughout the terminal and its website. The YMM
Digital Art Exhibit program provides a unique opportunity for artists to showcase their talent to a
large and diverse audience of travellers from around the world.

About Amy Keller-Rempp | https://www.amykeller.com/

Amy Keller-Rempp belongs to the Wolf Clan from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, Haudenosaunee people of the Six Nations. She uses acrylic and has developed several unique
styles described as Modern Impressionism, Sky Dance Series and Metal Art. Her Sky Dance paintings featuring northern lights are displayed on mugs, puzzles, colouring books, and
calendars sold across North America. You can follow her on Instagram @amykellerremppart or www.amykeller.com.

Residents invited to Fort McMurray International Airport to attend upcoming Art Exhibit Launch

Fort McMurray, AB – Fort McMurray Airport Authority’s Executive Leadership Team invites community members to attend YMM’s upcoming Digital Art Exhibit Launch Wednesday, May 1, from 6 – 7 p.m. on Level 3, in the Observation Area. The exhibit features Lynel Baguio’s Unraveling the Mosaic: Puzzling the Pieces of Our Region.

Originally from the Philippines, Baguio embarked on his artistic journey after relocating to Calgary in 2010. In 2020, he made his way to Fort McMurray to pursue his studies in nursing.

“Prior to coming to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, I encountered various misconceptions about living in the region. I felt compelled to counter these stereotypes through my artwork, revealing the true beauty that exists here.”

Baguio aspires to work in long-term care facilities for seniors. As part of the exhibit launch, Baguio’s artwork will be transformed into puzzles and donated to the Golden Years Society, Rotary House Seniors Lodge, and the Willow Square Continuing Care Centre. These puzzles will serve as a meaningful way to piece together the beauty of our region, while bringing joy to residents in the care facilities. 

“Lynel has shared this is his first time having his photography on display to the public, and we are happy to have created the platform for him to do so,” says Michael Sieger, VP, Air Services & Commercial, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “His exhibit truly captures the beauty of our region, and we’re confident our passengers will enjoy the imagery while travelling through our terminal.”

Exhibit launch guests will enjoy light refreshments, live music, networking, and an opportunity to see Lynel’s full exhibit on display. His artwork will be featured for a three-month rotation throughout the YMM terminal. 

Register to attend the free event here.

About YMM Digital Art Exhibit

The Fort McMurray Airport Authority aims to celebrate and promote arts and culture by displaying artist exhibits on digital screens throughout the terminal and its website. The YMM Digital Art Exhibit program will provides a unique opportunity for artists to showcase their talent to a large and diverse audience of travellers from around the world.

About Fort McMurray International Airport

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.

March 20, 2024

Event brings in $6,150 for United Way Fort McMurray & Wood Buffalo Agencies                          

Fort McMurray, AB – Last Saturday, over 1,500 guests visited the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) to attend the YMM Hareport Eggstravaganza. Proceeds raised support the important programming and services offered through United Way & Wood Buffalo (UW) partner agencies.

“These community events are an opportunity to promote YMM as a welcoming, safe place to gather and to strengthen the relationships we have with the community we serve,” says Denean Robinson, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority.

Event attendees enjoyed games, crafts, treats, visiting with furry friends from the Pets & Wellness Society (PAWS), and photos with the Easter Bunny.

A record number of children registered for the sensory hour, during which children enjoyed a quiet, calm environment, and complimentary fidgets. “Inclusivity is important to keep top of mind when hosting community events,” says Danielle Lidstone, Community Development Officer, Autism Society of the RMWB. “Hats off to YMM for ensuring all children were able to participate and join in on the fun, we are grateful to the airport for hosting inclusive events.”

Executive Director of UW Cathy Steeves highlights the importance to giving to UW now more than ever, “In the face of economic downturns, rising costs, and other uncertainties, the social profit sector has seen a significant decrease in donations. The unwavering support received from our community partners such as YMM is a beacon of hope and plays a vital role in fulfilling UW’s fundraising efforts.

FMAA offers its sincerest thanks to the many partners, sponsors, donors and volunteers who made the event possible.

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.