Masset Airport

Masset Airport is not merely a runway, but the aerial gateway to the amazing world of the Haida Gwaii archipelago. Located at the northern tip of Graham Island in Canada, it serves as the starting point for journeys through lands rich in the culture of the indigenous Haida people and pristine nature. It is a small but vital transport hub where, instead of the bustle of metropolises, you will be greeted by tranquility and a friendly atmosphere, heralding an unforgettable adventure.

The main advantage of Masset Airport is its compactness and cosiness. There are no long queues or exhausting waits here: flight check-in and baggage claim are quick and fuss-free, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in a holiday atmosphere. The airport plays a key role in transport connectivity for island residents, linking them to the mainland of British Columbia.

For travellers, this is the ideal starting point for exploring the northern part of Haida Gwaii. From here, it is easy to reach the villages of Masset and Old Masset to experience the art and traditions of the Haida people, as well as the majestic Naikoon Provincial Park with its endless beaches and unique ecosystems. Despite its modest size, you can arrange car rental at the airport in advance, which is the best way to move around the island.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Masset Airport (ZMT), it is recommended to consult official sources or contact the airlines operating flights directly. Since this is a small regional airport, many services are coordinated through the managing municipality or air carriers.

• Official Website: Masset Airport does not have a dedicated website. Information is usually published on the official website of the Masset municipality, which manages the airport.
• Information Service Phone: It is recommended to use the contact number of the Village of Masset administration. It is important to understand that this is not a 24-hour airport dispatch service.
• Airport Address: Tow Hill Rd, Masset, British Columbia, V0T 1M0, Canada.
• Email: For official enquiries, please use the contact email of the Masset municipality.
• Social Media: There are no specialised social media accounts for the airport. News regarding airport operations may be published on the official pages of the municipality.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact the airline directly whose services you used. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Questions related to tickets, flight check-in, and special assistance are resolved exclusively through representatives of your airline.

Getting to Masset Airport (ZMT) from the village of the same name in Canada is very simple, as it is located in close proximity to residential areas. The main modes of transport here are car and taxi, as public transport in this remote part of Haida Gwaii island is limited.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most convenient and fastest way to reach the terminal, especially if you have a lot of luggage. A trip from any point in Masset will take just 5-10 minutes. Given the small size of the village and the limited number of vehicles, it is strongly recommended to book a taxi in advance to guarantee availability at the required time. The cost of the trip will be relatively low due to the short distance.

Car Rental — the ideal choice for tourists planning to explore the beauties of the Haida Gwaii islands. Many travellers prefer to rent a car immediately upon arrival at the airport or, conversely, return it here before departure. This provides maximum freedom of movement around the region. The drive from the village centre to the airport in a rented car also takes mere minutes.

For those travelling in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided at the airport. Given the modest size of the terminal and low passenger traffic, finding a free space is usually not a problem. Regarding public transport, such as regular buses, metro, or trains, they are absent in Masset. Therefore, you should plan your trip to the airport relying specifically on a taxi or car.

Masset Airport (ZMT) is a small regional airport characterised by its compactness and simplicity. It consists of one terminal that serves all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its modest size, navigation is intuitively clear, and you are unlikely to get lost here.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. All infrastructure is located in one small building. Immediately at the entrance, you will find check-in counters, followed by a compact security screening area. The departure and arrival zones are effectively combined: after check-in and control, passengers enter a small waiting lounge from where boarding takes place. Arriving passengers also proceed to this main hall to collect their luggage. There are no complex transitions, separate floors, or corridors — everything is on one level and within walking distance.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Masset Airport usually takes a minimum amount of time. Due to low passenger traffic, flight check-in and security screening rarely take more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is worth following your airline's recommendations and arriving at the airport in advance, typically 60-90 minutes before departure, to check in luggage and pass all procedures without haste.

The main advice for navigation is simple: it is practically impossible to get lost at Masset Airport. All services are in plain sight, and you will not have to study complex maps or search for the right exit for long. Airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions. This makes travel through ZMT maximally comfortable and quick.

The history of Masset Airport (ZMT) is closely linked to key events of the 20th century and the development of the remote Haida Gwaii archipelago. Its origins date back to World War II, when it was established as a Royal Canadian Air Force base (Canada RCAF Station Masset). During that period, the airfield played an important strategic role in the country's Pacific coast defence system, ensuring aerial patrolling and protection against potential threats.

After the war ended, the military significance of the airfield diminished, and it was gradually converted for civilian needs. This transition became a turning point in the history of Masset and the entire region. The airport turned into a vital transport artery connecting the isolated communities of Haida Gwaii with the mainland. With its help, regular passenger transport, delivery of mail, medicines, and essential goods were established, which radically improved the quality of life for local residents.

Throughout its civilian history, Masset Airport has not undergone the massive expansions characteristic of major hubs, yet its infrastructure has been constantly maintained and modernised. Work has been carried out to update the runway, navigation equipment, and terminal building to meet modern safety standards and ensure reliable air connections. The airport's main achievement can be considered its continuous operation over decades in difficult weather conditions, making it indispensable for the region.

An interesting fact from the airport's history is how its function transformed from strictly military to a primary access point for tourists wishing to experience the unique culture of the Haida people and the incredible nature of the islands. Today, ZMT airport is not just an infrastructure facility, but a symbol of connection, a gateway to an amazing world, and a witness to a rich history reflecting the development path of the entire northern coast of British Columbia.

Masset Airport (ZMT) is a small regional airport serving the northern part of the Haida Gwaii archipelago in Canada. Given its size and purpose, the range of services here is focused on meeting basic passenger needs before departure. It is important to understand that the infrastructure of this airport is not comparable to major international hubs.

In the terminal building, you will find a main waiting lounge where you can comfortably await your flight. Shopping and dining opportunities are limited: generally, there are no full-service restaurants or shops here. Vending machines with snacks and beverages may be available to passengers. Specialised VIP halls or business lounges are absent at the airport.

For those needing to stay connected, Wi-Fi access may be provided in the terminal, but its availability and stability should be checked on-site. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank. Banking services, including ATMs and currency exchange points, are not provided at Masset Airport. All financial operations are best completed in advance in the city of Masset.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility in accordance with basic accessibility requirements. However, to receive special assistance, such as a wheelchair, you must contact your airline in advance. Services for passengers with children are minimal and may include changing tables in the restrooms. There are no separate play areas or dedicated nursing rooms here.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference halls on the airport territory. The nearest options for accommodation and business meetings can be found in the city of Masset itself, located a few minutes' drive from the airport. Medical assistance is limited to first aid provided by airport staff; in emergencies, city services are called.

When planning a trip through Masset Airport (ZMT), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport serving a remote settlement. Consequently, dining options directly within the terminal are severely limited and not comparable to major aviation hubs.

There are no restaurants or cafes in the airport building. Passengers should not count on a full lunch or dinner while waiting for a flight. Occasionally, vending machines with drinks and light snacks (chips, chocolate) may be installed in such small terminals, but their presence and assortment are not guaranteed. Specialised dietary meals, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal options, are not available at the airport.

The best solution is to arrange food and drinks in advance. We recommend having a substantial meal or purchasing food to take away at one of the establishments in the town of Masset before arriving at the airport. This will allow you to comfortably wait for your departure without worrying about finding food. Given the modest size of the terminal, you can easily take purchased food with you into the waiting area.

Thus, the main advice for travellers departing from Masset Airport is to plan your meals beforehand and not rely on the infrastructure inside the terminal. Purchasing everything necessary in the city will help avoid inconvenience and make waiting for the flight more pleasant.

Travel through Masset Airport usually proceeds calmly and without unnecessary fuss, which is typical for small regional air terminals. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite the compact size of the airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will give you sufficient time in case of unforeseen circumstances. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24 hours before departure. At the airport itself, the check-in and screening process typically proceeds quickly.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you are flying from Masset, choose a window seat to enjoy breathtaking views of the Haida Gwaii archipelago. Regarding hand luggage, standard rules apply: liquids (gels, aerosols) must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags and placed on the belt when passing through security.

Connections and Customs. Most flights from Masset involve connections at major airports, for example, in Vancouver. Ensure you have enough time between flights — allow at least 2-3 hours, especially if you need to collect and re-check luggage. Masset Airport serves domestic flights, so customs and border control are absent here. International passengers undergo these procedures at the first airport of arrival in Canada.

How to Save. To avoid excess baggage fees, weigh your luggage at home. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control, and light snacks — this will help save on purchases at the departure or transfer airport.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and possible options (for example, rebooking on another flight). Ensure your phone is charged, and your hand luggage contains everything necessary: medicines, a charger, a book, or a tablet. Knowing your passenger rights can also be useful in such situations.