2023 in Review

2023 was a year of accomplishments and progress for the Fort McMurray International Airport. Through exceptional leadership, sustainable practices, community engagement, and recognition for outstanding service, YMM solidified its position as a premier airport in North America.

1. New Leadership: The year began with the appointment of Denean Robinson as the President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. Her extensive experience and visionary leadership brings a fresh perspective to the airport's operations.

2. Not In My City Awareness Event: YMM welcomed the founders of Not In My City, Paul and Liz Brandt, to host an awareness event. This event aimed to raise awareness about human trafficking and how to foster a safer community.

3. Wood Buffalo 2023 Arctic Winter Games: YMM proudly welcomed over 1,700 participants from the Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut, Alaska, Norway, Sweden, and Finland for the Wood Buffalo 2023 Arctic Winter Games.

4. Global Airport Carbon Reduction Program: YMM made significant strides in sustainability by achieving the Level 2 'Reduction' milestone in the Global Airport Carbon Reduction Program.

5. Airport Service Quality Awards: YMM received three prestigious 2022 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. The airport was recognized as the Best Airport in North America for serving under two million passengers annually, the Most Enjoyable Airport in North America, and the Cleanest Airport in North America.

6. Rainbow Space Designation: Pride YMM designated YMM as a Rainbow Space recognizing the airport's efforts to create a safe and inclusive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ travelers and employees.

7. Montreal Air Service Announced: In June, YMM announced seasonal non-stop air service to Montreal via Air Canada, providing increased connectivity and convenience for travellers. 

8. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program: YMM implemented the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, signaling its commitment to inclusivity and providing support to passengers with hidden disabilities. Sunflower wristbands, lanyards and pins are available to anyone travelling through YMM to wear and voluntarily share the passenger has a disability or condition that may not be immediately.

9. YMM Volunteer Program: YMM launched a new Volunteer Program. Volunteers are trained to support passengers with flight information, wayfinding, and answer general questions which commonly arise during the passenger journey.

10. YMM Digital Art Exhibit: The Fort McMurray Airport Authority launched its first-ever digital art program to celebrate and promote arts and culture by displaying artist exhibits on digital screens throughout the terminal and its website.

11. Aurora Landing: YMM unveiled Aurora Landing, a 650-acre commercial masterplan situated at the airport.

Thank you to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo residents and visitors for Flying YMM – we look forward to serving you in 2024!

Sincerely,

Boots to Flip-Flops in One Quick Connection

Tired of the cold yet? We are too! Luckily, there are countless sun destinations you can quickly get to from YMM with one quick connection through YYC (Calgary)! Trade your boots for flip-flops and enjoy the vacation you deserve. WestJet has multiple options, visit www.westjet.com and book today!

Staci Millard Named New Chair of Fort McMurray Airport Authority Board

The Fort McMurray Airport Authority’s (FMAA) Executive Leadership Team and Board are pleased to announce Staci Millard as the new Chair of the FMAA Board of Directors after Mike Chwelos announced his retirement.

"We are extremely grateful for Mike's time served as Chair. On behalf of Team YMM, we wish him all the best," said Denean Robinson, President & CEO, FMAA.

Millard has been an FMAA Board member since her appointment in 2020. She has been a member and Chair of the Governance Committee for the past two years.

“The ELT is thrilled Staci has accepted the role as FMAA Board Chair. She is a true leader, with a skillset well-suited to support the important work and strategic planning required of the Chair,” said Robinson. Read the full news release here.

On the YMM Runway - Airport Maintenance Team

After a slow start to winter, the Fort McMurray Airport Authority Maintenance Team are now in full swing, putting the new ØVERAASEN RS-400 sweepers to work.

“Our team works hard to ensure safe operations at YMM by clearing snow and ice from runways, taxiways, aprons, and maintaining critical equipment to withstand the harsh weather conditions,” says Jeff Vader, Maintenance Manager, FMAA.

Visit FMAA at the Multicultural Expo

Come visit the Fort McMurray Airport Authority at the upcoming 2024 Multicultural Expo at MacDonald Island Park on February 3. Representatives will be on-location to speak about programs and services available at the Fort McMurray International Airport.

YMM in the News

Click on the following links to learn what the web is sharing about YMM:

• Fort McMurray airport hopes for growth in 2024 after challenging 2023
• Incentives to move to RMWB coming, Jean slams work camp

Photo: FMAA Route Development and Customer Experience Specialist Jessica Perry (right) with Canadian Airports Council President Monette Pasher in Washington, DC, on December 4.

Team YMM Spotlight on Jessica Perry

From making headlines with the International Airport Review for her involvement with the 2023 Fort Chipewyan wildfire evacuation to being awarded as an inaugural scholarship recipient of the ACI-NA Educational Foundation in Washington, DC, Jessica Perry is a very dedicated and accomplished member of Team YMM as the FMAA's Route Development and Customer Experience Specialist.

What drew Jessica to FMAA was her genuine enjoyment of working with the people on the campus, which she considers her second family.

"I find joy in meeting new people, establishing meaningful connections and thriving on the challenges my role presents as they motivate me to continuously improve and excel," she said.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Jessica actively volunteers for organizations such as Support Through Housing Team and St. Aidan's Society, demonstrating her commitment to the community.

New YMM Volunteer Joins the Program

Welcome to our newest YMM Volunteer Jim Langdon! Jim is a 27-year Fort McMurray resident, originally from Botwood, Newfoundland. His interest in volunteering at YMM stems from his love for aviation. He is a recreational pilot and enjoys flying his Advanced Ultra-Light Aeroplane.

“I love aviation and meeting new people,” he shared. Be sure to wave to Jim next time you FlyYMM.

The YMM Volunteer program launched in August 2023 and now has five residents helping out at YMM. Learn more about the program online.

End of the Runway - Airport Humour