Airports

Access to Restricted Areas

There are three permits/cards that grant non-passengers access to restricted areas of airports in the Northwest Territories.

Approval will only be granted to those who require access and have successfully completed all necessary applications.

Driver Apron Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (DA AVOP)

This permit allows for the operation of a motorized vehicle on the apron areas and service roads of an airport.

To acquire a DA AVOP, follow these steps:

  1. Complete an AVOP application stating the reason a DA AVOP is required.
  2. Send your completed application, proof of vehicle insurance, and proof of a valid driver’s licence to the appropriate regional airport manager for approval. 
  3. If the AVOP application is approved, the applicant must study one of the following manuals, depending on which airport the application is for:
    • For Aklavik, Colville Lake, Délįne, Fort Good Hope, Fort Liard, Fort McPherson, Fort Providence, Fort Resolution, Gamètì, Ulukhaktok, Jean Marie River, Lutselk'e, Nahanni Butte, Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Sambaa K’e, Tuktoyaktuk, Tulita, Wekweètì, Whatì, and Wrigley, click here.
    • For Inuvik, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith, Hay River, Norman Wells, and Yellowknife, click here.
  4. The applicant must also pass a written exam and practical driving test at the airport, which is arranged through the airport manager.

DA AVOPS are typically issued as soon the required exam and driving tests are successfully completed.

Driver Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (D AVOP)

This permit allows for the operation of a motorized vehicle on all airside areas of an airport.

To acquire a D AVOP, follow these steps:

  1. Complete an AVOP application stating the reason a D AVOP is required.
  2. Send your completed application, proof of valid airside vehicle liability insurance, and proof of a valid driver’s licence to the appropriate regional airport manager for approval.
  3. Applicants must then obtain a Restricted Operator Certificate-Aeronautical (ROC-A). This certificate can be obtained from Industry Canada or a designated authority on behalf of Industry Canada. The Industry Canada study guide is available here. To avoid delays in obtaining a D AVOP, we recommend obtaining a ROC-A before completing the required exam and driving tests.
  4. If the AVOP application is approved, the applicant must study one of the following guides, depending on which airport the application is for:
    • For Aklavik, Colville Lake, Délįne, Fort Good Hope, Fort Liard, Fort McPherson, Fort Providence, Fort Resolution, Gamètì, Ulukhaktok, Jean Marie River, Lutselk'e, Nahanni Butte, Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Sambaa K’e, Tuktoyaktuk, Tulita, Wekweètì, Whatì, and Wrigley, click here.
    • For Inuvik, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith, Hay River, Norman Wells, and Yellowknife, click here.
  5. The applicant must also review the local airport traffic directives ONLY if the application is for one of the following airports:
  6. The applicant must pass a written exam and practical driving test, which is arranged through the airport manager.

D AVOPS are typically issued as soon the required exam and driving tests are successfully completed.

Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC)

This card grants non-passenger access to the restricted areas of Yellowknife Airport only, such as the security screening area.

To acquire a RAIC, follow these steps:

  1. Complete an application for Transportation Security Clearance. Approval is granted by Transport Canada.
  2. Book an online appointment with the Yellowknife Airport Security Office. A Temporary Escort pass will be issued if required. Fingerprints and a photograph will be taken to complete the application Transportation Security Clearance process. When approved by Transport Canada, an email will be sent to the applicant and employer/sponsor from the Yellowknife Airport Security Office.
  3. Complete a RAIC application.
  4. Book an online appointment with the Yellowknife Airport Security Office. Bring the completed application form along with valid photo identification and current RAIC or yellow escort card (where applicable).