North Star Air Launches New Flights from Kenora to Thunder Bay

Beginning on January 15, 2026, North Star Air will introduce a direct passenger flight service connecting Kenora and Thunder Bay, Ontario. This initiative comes as a response to the gap left by Bearskin Airlines, which discontinued its services to Kenora, Dryden, and Fort Frances in May 2024. The new air service aims to significantly reduce travel time, transforming the typical five-and-a-half-hour drive into a swift one-hour flight.

The Kenora Airport Authority has partnered with North Star Air to establish this scheduled service, which is expected to enhance regional connectivity and provide vital access to health services, commerce, and travel opportunities across northern Ontario. In a news release, Ryan Reynard, chairman of the Kenora Airport Authority, described the partnership as a pivotal milestone for both the airport and the surrounding community.

Enhancing Regional Connectivity

“A direct link to Thunder Bay strengthens our regional transportation network,” Reynard stated. He emphasized that improved access will support not only business connectivity but also the movement of residents seeking health care and other services.

North Star Air, a Canadian airline known for its scheduled passenger service and cargo operations throughout northern Ontario, Manitoba, and Nunavut, is poised to play a significant role in this enhanced connectivity. According to Jeff Stout, president and chief operating officer of North Star Air, this new route reflects the airline’s commitment to fostering community connections while promoting economic growth.

Community Impact and Economic Benefits

The population of Kenora is approximately 15,000, and local leaders are optimistic about the implications of the new air service. Andrew Poirier, the city’s mayor, expressed his excitement, highlighting that the scheduled flights will not only improve travel options but also drive tourism and economic activity.

“The highways here are often considered substandard, making travel dangerous for many residents,” Poirier stated. He noted that the new flight service would alleviate some of the challenges posed by these conditions, thereby enhancing accessibility for both residents and visitors.

In addition to tourism, the new air service is expected to meet essential health-care needs. Many residents currently travel to Thunder Bay for medical appointments, and the upcoming hospital construction in Kenora may further increase this demand. Poirier emphasized the importance of having an air service that aligns with other airlines operating out of Thunder Bay, as this will significantly improve connectivity for those in need of timely medical care.

Poirier remarked, “Saving upwards of 10 hours of travel time for work or medical appointments is a significant benefit. Time is money, and this service will help our residents immensely.”

The Kenora Airport Authority has committed to collaborating closely with regional partners, municipalities, and tourism organizations to ensure that the new service meets community needs and is sustainable over time. A launch event is scheduled at the Kenora Airport on December 20, ahead of the service’s official start date.

As North Star Air prepares to commence this vital service, the local community eagerly anticipates the reinvigoration of commercial airline options, hoping it will foster growth and enhance the quality of life in the region.