Water Leak Temporarily Closes Fort McMurray Airport Terminal
UPDATE, February 17, 12:30 p.m.
The Fort McMurray International Airport has reopened following a water leak which closed the terminal to passenger services early Monday morning.
FlyYMM says a fire hydrant on the airport campus was identified as the source of the water leak. The hydrant has been isolated by crews with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo with the support of the Airport Maintenance team.
Normal water pressure in the area has been restored, and the terminal is again open to the public. Airlines serving the airport are working on resuming on-time flight operations, but passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for current disruptions or delays.
UPDATE, February 17, 10:30 p.m.:
The Fort McMurray International Airport says it is currently working with the Regional Municipality of Wood Bufalo’s Underground Services crews to address the water main break. The location of the rupture appears to be between the McKenzie Pump Station and Saprae Creek.
The terminal remains closed as it cannot accommodate passengers and regular operations due to the lack of water supply. The runway is open for non-commercial flights, such as medevac.
Airlines are adjusting their schedules with many flights delayed and/or cancelled. The situation is dynamic and passengers and those expecting passengers should contact their airline directly for the latest information.
WestJet’s online arrival and departure status can be found at: https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/flights/status. Information on Air Canada’s arrivals and departures can be found at: https://www.aircanada.com/flifo/search?l=en
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FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — A water main break at the Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) has forced the temporary closure of the terminal building, disrupting travel plans for passengers Monday morning.
The Fort McMurray Airport Authority announced the closure in a statement, noting that crews are working to repair the damaged line. The authority advised travellers to contact their airlines directly for updates on cancellations and delays.
As of 9:00 a.m., WestJet delayed the departures of flights WS3146 and WS3136, while Air Canada cancelled flight AC8421. As for arrivals, WesJet has cancelled the arrival of WS3216 and delayed the arrival of WS3387. Air Canada has cancelled the arrival of AC8420. The airport authority expects to provide an update on the situation by noon.
The cause of the water main break and the extent of the damage remain unclear. The airport authority has not indicated how long repairs may take or when the terminal will reopen.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.