The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is asking people in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, to share their thoughts on a new 20‑year plan for the local airport. The public notice, posted on January 22, 2026, launches a public engagement period open from January 22, 2026 to February 22, 2026, inviting residents to review the Fort Smith Airport Development Plan and provide feedback.
The long‑term strategy follows events that highlighted the airport’s importance. During the 2023 wildfire emergency, closures and threats to Highway 5 made air access essential for evacuations and delivering supplies, underlining the airport’s role as a critical lifeline for the community. The plan also comes after Northwestern Air Lease ended its scheduled passenger service on January 16, 2025, a change that led to revised flight arrangements in the region.
Proposed projects in the draft include a potential terminal expansion, runway resilience measures to better handle weather and operational demands, and increased cargo capacity. These changes are intended to make regional travel more reliable and help the Town of Fort Smith remain connected for medical travel, freight and daily supplies.
Residents can review the full draft and submit comments through the GNWT ‘Have Your Say’ portal or by emailing INF_Communications@gov.nt.ca. The GNWT is also holding engagement sessions in Fort Smith on January 29, 2026 (10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.) at the Curling Club Multipurpose Room. Written feedback must be submitted by February 22, 2026 to be included in the consultation record.
