At least one Canadian city has chosen to shut their airport down, including its single runway, during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Starting Monday, March 30, anyone wishing to land at the non-towered Trail airport (CAD4) in the Kootenay-Boundary region in the southern interior of British Columbia will need to obtain prior permission (PPR) 24 hours in advance to land.

According to airport manager Robert Baker, staffing levels at the city-owned and operated airport “…will be significantly reduced and gates will be locked or de-energized during this time.” The terminal building will be closed. Both JA-1 and 100LL self-serve fuel systems will, however, remain active.

When contacted by eFlight, Baker said that “…aircraft that need to land in an emergency can land, but it would be at their own risk.” Baker also stated that violators would be reported to Transport Canada. It is not yet clear whether permission would automatically be given if requested 24 hours in advance.

Pacific Coastal Airlines, which normally provides service from Vancouver to Trail (pop. 7,700), suspended service to that city on Tuesday, March 24 until at least May 3.

Photo credit: City of Trail