In the 1960s, the current location of the runway and log terminal was used as a base for Bomarc surface-to-air missiles developed by Boeing from 1962 to 1971.
Nearly 1,890 metres (6,200 feet) long, the runway was built in 1952 as a North American military defense base. This chapter marks the history of the village of La Macaza during the Cold War, a period of high political tensions between capitalist and communist countries.
Its log terminal and castle-like roof make it one of the most unique airport in the world, and has contributed to the region’s tourism boom. Since 2007, it has welcomed flights from all over Canada and the United States.
Some vestiges of these facilities, dismantled in the early 1970s, are still visible, such as the 1.8‑km (1.12-mile) landing strip that planes use today.
As for the buildings enclosed by the high fences that were previously part of the military base, they housed Collège Manitou from 1973 to 1976. This first college dedicated to the preservation of Indigenous culture in Quebec subsequently became a federal detention centre.
Porter Airlines’ and Air Canada’s flight schedules are available at flylaurentians.ca and on the airlines’ websites.