Annual passenger traffic at the Saskatoon Airport last year was just under 30 per cent of what it was prior to the pandemic, with 439,927 passengers. The Saskatoon Airport Authority says it continues to monitor and respond to the rapidly changing circumstances of the pandemic, to mitigate lasting impacts where possible.

The SAA is a a private not-for-profit corporation reliant on a user-pay revenue model from passenger and aircraft traffic. A news release from the Airport Authority states the year ended in a position of viability and organizational stability despite the challenges.

The federal government awarded $16.4-million last year to be invested in critical infrastructure and operations. President and CEO of the Saskatoon Airport, Stephen Maybury, says re-establishing air service was critical last year, with several new seasonal routes added, as well as welcoming back many previously served destinations which were suspended in 2020. Maybury says, “As we reflect on the past year, we are pleased to acknowledge the commitment of our staff, contractors, and partners as the number of travelers gradually increased throughout the year. We are an essential community asset that facilitates cargo movements, e-commerce and life-saving services from Air Ambulance and STARS while inherently functioning as a northern gateway for the province.”