Canada Invests CAD 49.5 Million to Modernise Inuvik (Mike Zubko) Airport

The Government of Canada has announced a CAD 49.5 million investment to modernise Inuvik (Mike Zubko) Airport in the Northwest Territories. The funding, provided through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF), will upgrade the runway and access road, improving safety and operational efficiency. ## Upgrades to Enhance Safety and Cargo Capacity The project will pave the existing runway with a consistent surface and replace the access road with asphalt. These improvements aim to accommodate heavier road traffic and increasing cargo volumes while ensuring reliable operations. Construction is set to begin this autumn, with the Government of the Northwest Territories as a key partner. The federal investment complements an earlier CAD 230 million commitment from the Department of National Defence for runway extension and modernisation. Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed this funding earlier this year, emphasising its dual role in supporting civilian and defence operations. ## Supporting Regional Connectivity and Emergency Response Inuvik Airport serves as a critical hub for Canada’s Western Arctic, facilitating passenger services, cargo operations, and emergency response efforts. It also functions as a Forward Operating Location for the Royal Canadian Air Force and NORAD, reinforcing national defence and security. The upgrades are expected to enhance year-round connectivity for Northern communities, strengthen supply chains, and improve emergency response capabilities, including medical evacuations and wildfire management. The project is the first under the CAD 1 billion Arctic Infrastructure Fund, introduced in Canada’s 2025 Budget, to support dual-use infrastructure in Arctic and Northern regions. ## Economic and Indigenous Engagement The initiative is also designed to create opportunities for Indigenous and Northern businesses while supporting local employment during construction. The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport, highlighted the airport’s role in advancing Canada’s defence, security, and sovereignty objectives in the North. Additionally, the federal government is funding aviation infrastructure improvements in the Sahtu Region, reflecting its broader commitment to Northern transportation development. The Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, underscored the importance of such investments in meeting growing demand and fostering economic development in the Arctic.