Glass Field

Glass Field Airport (YPA) is not merely a transit point, but the true "Gateway to the North" of Saskatchewan, serving as the starting point for breathtaking routes to remote corners of the wilderness. This small yet welcoming air harbour captivates with its tranquil atmosphere, which stands in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of major international hubs. Here, amidst the endless Canadian plains, travellers can experience the distinct rhythm of life in a region where aviation remains a primary link between communities.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Glass Field is its exceptional compactness. Passengers here are spared the need to cover vast distances between check-in counters and boarding gates — the entire journey takes mere minutes. This makes the airport an ideal choice for those who value their time and prefer to avoid queues. The staff, accustomed to a smaller flow of people, are noted for their hospitality and readiness to assist in any situation.

Another important feature is its strategic location. The airport is located just a 10–15 minute drive from the city centre of Prince Albert, and the road to it passes through picturesque landscapes, setting a pleasant mood even before the flight. For car owners, there is convenient parking located in immediate proximity to the terminal, which significantly simplifies logistics, especially during the winter period.

Despite its status as a regional hub, the airport plays a critically important role in ensuring connectivity with northern territories. It serves as a base for air ambulance services and aerial firefighting, adding significance and reliability to the location. For tourists, this means that even in such a small airport, high standards of safety and runway maintenance are upheld in all weather conditions.

To plan your trip and receive the latest information regarding the operations of Glass Field Airport (YPA), we recommend using official communication channels. Below are the key contact details to help you navigate.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the City of Prince Albert. Current information, including schedules and services, is published on the official airport page: citypa.ca.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries and assistance, you may contact the airport administration at: +1 306-953-4222.
• Airport Address: 4400-4th Avenue East, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada. This address can be used for navigation applications.
• Email: For written enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact forms or email address listed in the contact section of the official airport page.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate social media pages. Important updates may be published on the official accounts of the City of Prince Albert.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost personal items within the airport terminal, please contact the administration. If luggage or items were lost on board the aircraft, you should contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions regarding flight tickets, check-in, carriage rules, and schedules, please contact your airline's customer support service directly.

Glass Field Airport (YPA) is located in close proximity to the city of Prince Albert, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose between several transport options; however, it is worth considering local specifics to plan the trip in the best possible way.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. The journey from the city centre takes on average 10–15 minutes. The cost of the service usually varies between 20–30 Canadian dollars. You can utilise local taxi services by booking a car via phone or an app. This is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling at unsociable hours.

Car Rental and Private Transport — an excellent choice for those who value independence. The drive from the centre of Prince Albert is straightforward and does not take much time. Glass Field Airport has parking offering both short-term and long-term options at reasonable rates, which are significantly lower than in major airports across Canada. If you plan to rent a car, it is recommended to book it online in advance, although several rental agencies have counters directly in the terminal building.

Public Transport currently does not serve Glass Field Airport directly. City bus routes do not reach the terminal, so this option should not be considered for travel to the airport. Travellers without a car should rely on taxis or arrange for a transfer.

Glass Field Airport (YPA), serving the city of Prince Albert in Canada, represents a small and compact regional aviation hub. Its infrastructure is simple and intuitive, making your stay here as comfortable as possible and eliminating the stress often associated with large airports.

The airport operates with just one terminal, which handles both domestic departures and arrivals. Thanks to its modest size, navigating the building poses no difficulties. All key zones — check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other inside a single building. There are no transfers between terminals as they are unnecessary.

The terminal layout is extremely simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the single security checkpoint. Immediately beyond it lies a small but comfortable departure lounge with several boarding gates. The arrival zone is located in the same main part of the building and includes the baggage claim belt.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Glass Field Airport usually takes a minimum amount of time. Due to the low passenger flow and limited number of flights, queues for check-in and security are typically non-existent or very short. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure to complete all procedures without haste.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which clearly direct you to all necessary zones. Getting lost here is practically impossible. It is the ideal airport for those who value simplicity, speed of service, and a calm atmosphere before a flight.

The Prince Albert Airport (YPA), also known as Glass Field, boasts a rich history closely tied to the development of northern Saskatchewan. Officially opened in 1947, it was established from the very beginning as a vital transport hub connecting the city with remote northern communities. The airport received its secondary name, Glass Field, in honour of Floyd Glass — a local pilot and aviation enthusiast who played a key role in its establishment and tragically perished during a training flight in 1951.

Over the decades, the airport has fulfilled several strategically important functions. It became the primary base for the renowned Saskatchewan Air Ambulance, one of the first services of its kind in the world, saving lives in hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, YPA is a key centre for forest fire suppression operations, hosting aircraft and teams that protect the province's vast forest reserves. This role has cemented the airport's reputation as the "Gateway to the North" of Canada.

With the growing needs of the region, Glass Field Airport has undergone multiple modernisations. In various years, works were carried out to lengthen and strengthen the runway to accommodate larger aircraft. The terminal building also underwent significant reconstruction, particularly in 2011-2012, when passenger areas were expanded and general infrastructure was improved. Recent investments confirm its enduring importance to the region's economy and social life, supporting passenger transport, logistics, and emergency services.

Glass Field Airport (YPA) is a small regional airport, so the range of services is focused on meeting the basic needs of passengers. The terminal offers a compact and clear environment for a comfortable wait for your flight.

A small café operates for passengers, where light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages can be ordered. Vending machines are also installed in the terminal. The selection of shops is limited, so major purchases are best made in the city. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport, but a general waiting area is available to all passengers.

Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected before departure. Special sockets and stations are provided for charging gadgets. Bank branches and currency exchange services are not available at the airport, so it is recommended to arrange for cash in advance. The nearest ATMs can be found in the city of Prince Albert.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: ramps and accessible restrooms are available. Travellers requiring a wheelchair or other assistance should notify their airline well in advance. For passengers with small children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. Basic medical services are limited to a first aid station.

There are no hotels on the grounds of Glass Field Airport. The nearest hotels and motels are located in the city of Prince Albert, which can be reached by taxi in a few minutes. Conference rooms and business centres are also absent at the airport; for business meetings, one can utilise the corresponding infrastructure in the city's hotels.

Glass Field Airport (YPA) in Prince Albert is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Passengers departing from this airport should note that opportunities for a full lunch or dinner on the premises are practically non-existent, and it is better to plan meals in advance.

The main and typically the only place to grab a bite is a small café or lounge area located in the main hall of the terminal, before the security checkpoint (landside). Here, travellers can purchase coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as standard light snacks: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, or chocolate bars. This is a good option for a quick snack before departure, but not for a substantial meal.

Specialised dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, are likely not available on the menu. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are strongly advised to bring food with them. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to visit one of the cafés or restaurants in the city of Prince Albert itself before travelling to the airport.

The operating hours of the local café depend directly on the flight schedule — it is usually open during periods before and between departures. Prices correspond to the average for small airports in Canada and may be slightly higher than in city establishments. After passing through security control (airside), food outlets are usually absent.

To ensure your journey through Glass Field Airport goes as smoothly as possible, please make use of these tips. The airport serves the city of Prince Albert and is an important transport hub in this part of Canada, so advance preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to complete all procedures without haste. Glass Field is a small airport, so queues here are generally short. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Hand Luggage and Security. Standard rules for carrying liquids apply here as well: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. The screening procedure is standard, but thanks to the airport's compactness, it proceeds quite quickly.

Seat Selection and Connections. If a window view is important to you, select a window seat when booking your ticket. Aisle seats are more convenient if you plan to stand up during the flight. Since Glass Field mainly serves regional flights, long layovers here are a rarity. If you have a connection at another, larger airport, study its map in advance and ensure you have enough time between flights.

Customs Control. Most flights from Prince Albert Airport are domestic, so passengers are not required to pass through customs and passport control. If your flight is international (which happens extremely rarely), be prepared to present your passport and fill out a customs declaration.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book tickets and car rental in advance. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security control, and some light snacks. In case of a flight delay, monitor the information on the display boards and in your airline's app. Do not hesitate to contact the carrier's representatives for information regarding meals or accommodation during long waits.