North Star Air Launches Direct Flights Between Kenora and Thunder Bay

In a significant development for regional travel, North Star Air will introduce direct flights between Kenora and Thunder Bay, Ontario, starting on January 15, 2026. This new service aims to reduce the lengthy five-and-a-half-hour drive between the two cities to just one hour by air, addressing a critical gap left by the departure of Bearskin Airlines in May 2024.

The Kenora Airport Authority announced the collaboration with North Star Air, emphasizing the importance of restoring commercial air services in the region. The initiative follows a comprehensive air service feasibility study conducted by Kenora, Dryden, and Fort Frances, which assessed the need for a new carrier and involved community stakeholder input.

Enhancing Connectivity and Economic Growth

Ryan Reynard, chairman of the Kenora Airport Authority, expressed enthusiasm about the new air service, stating, “This new partnership with North Star Air marks an exciting milestone for the Kenora Airport and our community.” He highlighted that the direct link to Thunder Bay significantly enhances the regional transportation network, facilitating better access to essential services, business opportunities, and travel options across northern Ontario.

Jeff Stout, president and chief operating officer of North Star Air, noted the airline’s commitment to fostering community connectivity and supporting regional economic growth. “This new route reflects our commitment to helping communities stay connected and supporting economic growth across the region,” he said in a recent press release.

The introduction of scheduled flights is expected to have a positive impact not only on travel convenience but also on local economies. Approximately 15,000 residents live in Kenora, and city mayor Andrew Poirier expressed his excitement about the upcoming service. He believes it will enhance tourism and improve healthcare access by making it easier for residents to reach medical appointments in Thunder Bay.

Addressing Travel Challenges in Northwestern Ontario

Poirier described the current travel conditions on highways in northwestern Ontario as “substandard” and potentially dangerous, which deters many from using them. “There are a lot of people who refuse to travel on them, which creates its own set of problems,” he explained. The new air service, he believes, will provide a safer alternative and alleviate some of the transportation challenges faced by residents.

With many individuals traveling for medical reasons, the new service could also help address growing healthcare demands. Poirier stated, “The people that may utilize an air service that’s scheduled and actually aligns with other airlines coming out of Thunder Bay — I think that makes a huge difference.” He emphasized that the time saved by flying over driving could be equivalent to a full day, making air travel a more attractive option for frequent travelers.

The Kenora Airport Authority plans to work closely with regional partners, municipalities, and tourism organizations to ensure the new service meets community needs and evolves sustainably. A launch event is scheduled for December 20, 2025, at the Kenora Airport, ahead of the service’s debut in the new year.

This partnership illustrates a significant step toward revitalizing air travel in northwestern Ontario, promising to enhance connectivity and support the region’s economic landscape. With North Star Air’s commitment to community engagement and service reliability, residents can look forward to a new era of air travel in their region.