The NWT is nearing its peak in passenger traffic, following an 18 per cent jump in 2024.

The record year came in 2019, which saw 646,030 people visit the Yellowknife Airport (YZF), where passenger traffic is monitored. In 2024, that figure was 604,000, according to the GNWT. 

Increased regional travel, expanded airline routes, greater flight frequencies and interest in tourism and business opportunities are among the reasons for the rebound, the territorial government stated.

Last year also saw a jump in passengers by almost 15 per cent, according to the territory.

Travel lagged badly as a result of restrictions put in place during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"We are thrilled to see such remarkable growth in passenger traffic at YZF," Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek is quoted as saying. "It underscores the vital role of air travel in supporting tourism, economic growth and new opportunities for Northerners. YZF will continue to be a gateway to exploration, business and connection across the North.SA国际影视传媒�

The NWT Bureau of Statistics told SA国际影视传媒 on Feb. 18 that it has no airline prices to provide, when asked for a comparison in costs between 2019 and 2024. 

Based on current ticket prices, travelling via Canadian North from Yellowknife to Inuvik for a week and back again would cost close to $1,900, according to the airline's website.

Someone flying Air Canada heading to Ottawa from Yellowknife, return, also for a week, would pay about $2,000. 

In its Feb. 18 press release, the GNWT does not mention where passengers are coming from. SA国际影视传媒's queries were not met with responses prior to publication deadline.  

Yellowknife will be upgrading its airport facilities, including a new website, a redesign of the terminal parking lot, better terminal washrooms, modernizing pre-board screenings and more, the GNWT noted. However, the GNWT's press release makes no mention of when any of those projects will be completed either.

"We wish to thank all NWT tourism businesses for sharing the beauty of our territory and working tirelessly to ensure each guest has a memorable experience," stated Donna Lee Demarcke, CEO of NWT Tourism. "We look forward to welcoming even more visitors in the years ahead and supporting a successful and thriving tourism industry in the spectacular Northwest Territories.SA国际影视传媒�