Manitoba is known for its vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and welcoming communities. From the bustling urban centre of Winnipeg to the serene shores of Hudson Bay, the province’s airports play a vital role in connecting its people and supporting its economy. While Manitoba is home to many airports serving remote communities, four stand out for their significance in location, size, and activity: Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG), Brandon Municipal Airport (YBR), Churchill Airport (YYQ), and Thompson Airport (YTH).
Our infographic, Backgrounder on Top Manitoba Airports, highlights these key hubs and their unique contributions to the province.
YWG Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport
- Hub of Manitoba: Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba's capital and largest city, YWG serves as a central hub for both domestic and international travel. Winnipeg is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks like The Forks, and its role as a key economic and cultural center in Canada.
- Passenger and cargo gateway: As one of Canada's busiest airports, YWG handled nearly 4 million passengers in 2023 and is a vital cargo hub, benefiting from Winnipeg's strategic location in North America.
- Award-winning design: The terminal, completed in 2011, is celebrated for its sustainable design and passenger-friendly amenities.
YBR Brandon Municipal Airport
- Gateway to Westman: YBR serves Brandon, an agricultural hub known for events like the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair and its thriving farming community.
- Regional air travel: Offering direct flights to key Canadian cities, YBR connects western Manitoba with the rest of the country.
- Community-focused: The airport supports a mix of passenger, private, and business aviation, making it a key asset for the surrounding area.
YYQ Churchill Airport
- Polar bear capital: Located in Churchill on the shores of Hudson Bay, YYQ serves a community renowned for its polar bear and beluga whale tourism, as well as the stunning Northern Lights.
- Vital link: As the only year-round transport hub for Churchill, YYQ is crucial for passenger travel, cargo, and medical evacuations, given the town’s remote location.
- Tourism gateway: The airport welcomes thousands of visitors each year, drawn to the unique Arctic ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region.
YTH Thompson Airport
- The Hub of the North: YTH serves Thompson, a city central to mining and transportation industries in northern Manitoba.
- Connecting northern communities: The airport provides essential connections to remote Indigenous communities and other northern regions of Manitoba.
- Tourism and adventure: Thompson is known for outdoor activities like fishing, canoeing, and exploring boreal forests, with YTH as a gateway to these adventures.
These four airports showcase Manitoba’s diverse landscape and the essential role aviation plays in connecting its urban and remote regions. From cargo hubs to tourism hotspots, these airports are integral to the province’s identity and economy.
Share the Infographic
Explore this Backgrounder on Top Manitoba Airports and share the infographic with your friends and family. If you love Manitoba’s aviation scene or want to show off your hometown pride, check out the airport code merchandise collection by YHM Designs. You’ll find throw pillows, mugs, and more featuring the unique codes of YWG, YBR, YYQ, and YTH.
Take flight with YHM Designs and celebrate Manitoba’s airports in style!
How to cite:
Illustration by YHM Designs.