Canadian operator Alkan Air has signed an agreement with the Government of Yukon for 10 years covering air ambulance services. Funded by the Government of Yukon and valued at approximately $15.7 million per year, with an option to extend for an additional two years, the contract ensures continued access to emergency air medical transport for Yukoners, including those living in rural and remote communities.

The current contract with Alkan Air Limited is set to expire in March 2026, with the new agreement taking effect on April 1. The contract was awarded following a competitive and transparent public tender process. It reflects the government's commitment to ensuring safe, timely and equitable emergency medical services for all Yukoners. The number of patients transported by the air ambulance programme has increased from 988 in 2020 to 1,489 in 2024, representing a more than 50 per cent increase.

Under the agreement, Alkan Air, which has provided air ambulance services in the Yukon for several decades, will provide 24-hour fully staffed air ambulance coverage, ensuring rapid response and experienced and seamless patient transport. The contract includes enhanced clinical expectations, improved operational coordination and continued access to fixed-wing aircraft based out of Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International airport.

Alkan Air has partnered with the Yukon First Nation Air Leasing Limited Partnership, which includes eight Yukon First Nations development corporations, to purchase and lease the aircraft required for this new contract. This partnership supports local economic participation while ensuring the long-term sustainability of air ambulance services in the territory.

“Renewing our partnership with Alkan Air means that Yukoners, even in the most remote areas, will have access to timely and reliable air ambulance services,” says Premier Mike Pemberton. “Our government continues to invest in our health care system while maintaining the high standards of care Yukoners deserve. I thank Alkan Air and all our emergency responders for your dedication to ensuring all Yukoners have safe, responsive and patient-focused care across the territory.”

“Our government is deeply committed to building a strong, person-centred health system that delivers high-quality services to Yukoners across the territory,” continues Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee. “Air ambulances are a critical lifeline for many Yukoners, especially those living in rural and remote areas and those needing care outside the territory. This new contract with Alkan Air ensures continuity of care and improvements and will service Yukoners and their future health care needs very well.”

“This work is deeply personal for our Alkan team,” states chief executive officer of Alkan Air, Lacia Kinnear. “Every mission represents someone's parent, child, friend or neighbour, and we carry that responsibility with care and pride. We're grateful for the trust the Government of Yukon continues to place in us. For decades, our team has been proud to support the territory's emergency medical response with safe, reliable and compassionate service. This new contract gives us the long-term stability and opportunity to keep evolving, so we can continue showing up for Yukoners, day and night, for years to come.

“We are proud to serve this contract in partnership with the Yukon First Nation Air Leasing Limited Partnership, which includes the following First Nations: Carmacks Development Corporation, Copper Nissuu Limited Partnership, Da Daghay Development Corporation, Kluane Dana Shaw Limited Partnership, Haa Chali Limited Partnership, Nacho Nyak Dun Development Corporation, Dena Nezziddi Limited Partnership and Selkirk Development Corporation.”

“Our investment in medevac aircraft alongside Alkan Air reflects our commitment to building strong, sustainable Yukon businesses that serve the needs of our people,” comments representative of Yukon First Nation Air Leasing Limited Partnership Stephen Mooney. “This is truly Yukoners supporting Yukoners. Medevac services are about more than transportation; they're about trust, care and saving lives. We know Alkan carries this responsibility with heart and professionalism. We are proud to be part of this essential work and look forward to the next decade of partnership, growth and service to our communities.”