Chetamon wildfire: Jasper Airstrip reopens Tuesday

Parks Canada says the Jasper Airstrip is reopening by the end of Tuesday, and regular flight operations are safe to resume.

All firefighters from partner organizations fighting the Chetamon wildfire burning in Jasper National Park have left, only two Parks Canada crews and one helicopter remain.

The fire has stayed at about 6,000 hectares since Sept. 11, with “no growth in suppression zones.”

Firefighters removed all hose, pumps, and temporary radio repeaters from the area of the wildfire of the last few days.

Officials say about 30 km of hose has been rolled up and demobilized off the fireline.

Much of Jasper National Park is still closed because of the fire.

“The area closure around the Chetamon wildfire extends westward to include room for limited growth on the western flank of the wildfire to support future community protection and ecological benefits. There are hot spots, spot fires and smoke in the area which may be visible from Highway 16. Fire suppression actions will be taken if and when necessary, such as when people or infrastructure is at risk,” a statement from Parks Canada reads.

Meanwhile, officials are once again reminding people to keep their drones away from the park.

Five drone-related incidents have already resulted in charges, and illegally flying a drone in Jasper National Park carries the maximum fine of $25,000.